Fishing tours can be arranged through the fishing co-op located across the street from El Girasol.

15 miles north of La Manzanilla and 3 kilometers off Highway 200 is Arroyo Seco (Playa Chica). This is a good spot and draws lots of surfers. Not for novices. You can find surf shops in the town of Barra offering lessons.

Linda Mandala offers massage. Her local number is 351-7396 or by email

Linda Baril offers her services as a licensed practitioner of reflexology. You can also have an Ion Detox Foot Bath and purchase vitamin and herbal supplements. Contact her by email

This is a great place to grab some reading material as you head for the beach. All proceeds from the used book sales benefit the community. Book donations are welcome. The shop is usually open from 10 am-1 pm, if volunteer staff members are available. Located on Tamarindo Street, just off the jardín.

Galería La Manzanilla located at Calle Perula Sur# 83 hosts several “meet the artist” open houses during the high tourist season. The gallery hosts a nice mix of Mexican and expatriate artists working in painting, sculpture and pottery. Hours vary depending on the season.

Many of the expatriate residents of La Manzanilla are artists. Check the message board at El Girasol or the events page to find information about individual showings.

El Tamarindo Beach & Golf Resort is located just a few minutes south of town. This posh resort hosts many of México’s uber rich and is starting to make news in the US market. They host a par 72 course designed by David Fleming. 

Call 011 52 315 35 1 50 32 or email to make reservations.

Every Saturday morning at 11 am during the high season, children of La Manzanilla are invited to participate in an art activity in the studio of Carol Lopez. The classes are held at the corner of Perula and Manglares, in her backyard studio. She can be reached by email

Two towns about 20 minutes south of La Manzanilla with restaurants, shops, and a bank. Barra has small tourist boardwalk if you are interested in shopping. You can take the bus to Melaque and then hop another to Barra.

This a lovely beach town 20 minutes north of La Manzanilla. There is a little coral-bottomed cove at the end of the beach. The cove is frequently home to camper vans, tents, and trailers mostly from Canada.

There is no bus service so you’ll have to take a taxi from La Manzanilla. The driver usually just drops you off and then waits for you.

There are some very highly recommended palapa restaurants on the beach just before you get to the cove.

It is recommended you bring your own snorkeling gear.

La Catalina Foundation, parent to the Natural Language school, can set you up with volunteer opportunities, mostly centered around teaching English to local students and adults.

Check with the staff about volunteer opportunities, working at the bookstore or teaching English.

In February sea turtle hatchlings emerge from the beach. Try Tierralegre for ongoing projects.