ETN Bus Travel to Manzanillo on Mexico’s Pacific Coast
Take an ETN Turistar bus to Manzanillo and experience Mexico's 'Pearl of the Pacific.' This relaxed beach town is ideal if you want peace and quiet, far from busy resorts.
Manzanillo is famous as the 'Sailfish Capital of the World' and offers beautiful beaches, top-notch sport fishing, and a friendly coastal vibe. Our luxury buses from Guadalajara get you there in about 4.5 hours, with executive-level comfort.
Whether you want to go fishing, explore the calm twin bays, or just relax on golden beaches like Playa Miramar and Playa La Audiencia, Manzanillo gives you a true Pacific coast experience. Book your bus to Manzanillo today and discover one of Mexico's best-kept coastal secrets.
Quick Facts: Guadalajara to Manzanillo
Why Visit Manzanillo?
Relaxed Atmosphere
Quieter than Puerto Vallarta or Cancún, offering a peaceful and authentic Mexican coastal escape.
Sport Fishing Capital
Known as the 'Sailfish Capital of the World,' it is a top destination for deep-sea marlin, tuna, and sailfish.
Twin Bay Beaches
Santiago and Manzanillo bays offer quiet, calm waters perfect for swimming and family fun.
Championship Golf
Play on world-class golf courses surrounded by tropical scenery and panoramic ocean views.
Fresh Seafood Paradise
Taste fresh Pacific seafood, including traditional Colima-style ceviche right on the beach.
Family-Friendly Shore
Safe waters, family resorts, and plenty of beach activities make it highly suitable for all ages.
How to Book Your Trip
Official Website
Book online at etn.com.mx/english. Select Guadalajara to Manzanillo, pick dates, and buy your tickets securely.
Mobile App
Download the ETN Turistar app (iOS/Android) to manage your tickets, select seats on an interactive map, and check schedules.
At Terminal Counter
Purchase tickets at the ticket counter in the Central Camionera in Guadalajara or the Manzanillo Central Terminal.
Terminal Information
Departure Hub
- Central Camionera, Guadalajara (4.5 hours ride)
- Terminal del Norte, CDMX (10-11 hours ride with connections)
Manzanillo Arrival Hub
- Central de Autobuses, Manzanillo
- A short 10-20 minute taxi ride to all major resort zones
Twin Bay Access
Arrival terminal provides immediate highway access to Santiago and Manzanillo bays.
Onboard Comfort
Enjoy climate control, reclining seats with leg rests, and onboard restrooms.
Strategic Schedules
Strategic departures allow easy transit for weekend getaways.
Top Attractions in Manzanillo
Beaches & Landmarks
- Playa Miramar: Long, golden beach ideal for swimming, walking, and dining.
- Playa La Audiencia: Calm bay beach perfect for snorkeling and families.
- Playa Olas Altas: Popular spot featuring bigger waves for water sports.
- The Malecón: Waterfront walk with a massive sailfish monument.
- Las Hadas Resort: Famous white Mediterranean-style resort featured in the movie "10".
Ecotourism & Town Sites
- Deep-Sea Fishing: Hire a charter to fish sailfish, marlin, tuna, or dorado.
- Downtown Zócalo: Enjoy shopping, dining, and local harbor views.
- Iguanario Archundia: Wildlife sanctuary to see iguanas in their habitat.
Trip Checklist
What to Pack
- Water shoes for snorkeling at La Audiencia.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent for lagoon eco-tours.
- Light layers for warm days and cooled bus cabins.
Activities & Adventures
Sport Deep-Sea Fishing
- Charter boats are available daily from the marina.
- Peak fishing season runs from November to May.
- Target species: Sailfish, marlin, dorado, and yellowfin tuna.
- Full-day and half-day charters are available.
Manzanillo's Culinary Scene
Must-Try Local Specialties:
- Colima-style Ceviche: Finely ground fresh fish marinated in lime juice, with carrots, onions, and local spices.
- Pescado zarandeado: Grilled whole fish marinated in red spices and cooked over embers.
- Colima-style Pozole: Red pozole soup topped with cabbage, radishes, and lime.
- Fresh Oysters: Shucked fresh directly from Banderas and Santiago bay waters.
- Picadillo Tamales: Traditional tamales filled with spiced minced meat.
- Sweet Treats: Sample local coconut sweets (Alfajores) and sour tamarind candies.
Where to Eat:
Dine at beachfront palapa restaurants right on Miramar sand, visit local downtown markets, or check out upscale resort dining.
Manzanillo vs. Other Beach Destinations
Why Choose Manzanillo
| Comparison Category | Advantage | Details |
|---|---|---|
| More Relaxed than Puerto Vallarta | ✓ | Fewer crowds on the beaches |
| ✓ | More authentic, local Mexican atmosphere | |
| ✓ | Better value for hotel accommodations | |
| ✓ | Less commercialized tourist zones | |
| Sport Deep-Sea Fishing | ✓ | Official "Sailfish Capital of the World" reputation |
| ✓ | More boat charter options in the marina | |
| ✓ | Excellent year-round fishing conditions | |
| Family-Friendly Travel | ✓ | Calmer twin bays (ideal for children) |
| ✓ | Safer, gentler swimming conditions | |
| ✓ | More affordable resort rates | |
| ✓ | Less hectic nightlife environment |
Planning Your Visit
Best Weather & Seasons
- High Season (November to April): Ideal beach weather, dry months, and peak sport fishing season.
- Shoulder Season (May, October): Great travel deals, fewer tourists, and pleasant weather.
- Summer/Rainy Season (June to September): Warm tropical weather, brief afternoon showers, and lowest rates of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Manzanillo by bus?
You can take direct ETN luxury buses from Guadalajara, which takes approximately 4.5 hours. Buses run multiple times daily.
How much does a bus ticket cost?
Tickets from Guadalajara start around $45 USD. Prices can vary depending on schedules and date bookings.
Is Manzanillo safe for tourists?
Yes, Manzanillo is recognized as a safe, family-friendly destination with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere.
What is included in my ETN bus ticket?
Your ticket includes executive-class 2+1 reclining seating, free onboard WiFi, USB chargers, restrooms, climate control, and 25kg checked baggage allowance.
Where does the bus arrive?
Buses arrive at the Central de Autobuses in Manzanillo. Safe taxis at the terminal can reach any beach resort in 10 to 20 minutes.
When is the best time to visit Manzanillo?
November to April is ideal for dry beach weather and peak deep-sea fishing season.
What should I not miss?
Don't miss trying deep-sea sport fishing, swimming in La Audiencia, strolling the Malecón, seeing the Hadas resort, and taking a day trip to Barra de Navidad.
Is Manzanillo crowded?
No, Manzanillo is significantly quieter and less commercialized than Puerto Vallarta or Cancún, making it perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Popular Connections
- Guadalajara → Manzanillo: 4.5 hrs | Multiple runs daily
- Manzanillo → Guadalajara: 4.5 hrs | Return schedules
- Colima → Manzanillo: 1.5 hrs | Several runs daily
Explore the Coast
Continue your Pacific coast exploration:
- Puerto Vallarta: Lively beach resort city (~4 hours north).
- Barra de Navidad: Cozy fisherman village (~1 hour north).
- Mazatlán: Famed historic port town further north.
Are you ready for a relaxing getaway?
Book your luxury ETN Turistar ticket to Manzanillo. Travel in executive comfort, enjoy quiet twin bays, and experience the Sailfish Capital of the World. Plan your beach escape today.