Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
mixed
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
desirable
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
4 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Manzanillo: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Manzanillo: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Playa Manzanillo: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — mixed. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Manzanillo: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 4 000 metres.
Playa Manzanillo: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Manzanillo: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Manzanillo: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: jellyfish (seasonal), sea urchins (near reefs). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Manzanillo: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Manzanillo: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Playa Manzanillo: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurants in Manzanillo, Cool & Calm Cafe. Cuisines available: Caribbean. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Manzanillo: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Headwear, Snorkel mask, Insect repellent.
Playa Manzanillo: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for snorkelling is morning, when the water is clearest. In the dry season (December–April) there is less rain.
Playa Manzanillo: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming is recommended in calm water. Caution, coral reefs. Do not touch corals. Keep the beach clean.
Playa Manzanillo: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Manzanillo: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to the protected reef and calm water. Suitable for snorkelling, swimming and nature observation. Not suitable for surfers.
Playa Manzanillo: what makes this beach unique?
Playa Manzanillo is part of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge and is known for its living coral reef, which protects the shore from waves and creates ideal snorkelling conditions. The water is so clear that visibility reaches 10 metres.
Playa Manzanillo: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Picturesque Caribbean beach, Protected coral reef, Crystal-clear water, Excellent snorkelling conditions, White sand and palm trees, Part of the Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Well-developed infrastructure: restaurants, shops, toilets. Cons: Rocky sections at the water entry, No lifeguards, Can be crowded in high season, Limited infrastructure in some parts, Mosquitoes and sandflies.
Playa Manzanillo: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Coral Reef, Puerto Viejo. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Manzanillo: how do I get to the city of Puerto Viejo?
The beach is located near the city of Puerto Viejo. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Puerto Viejo.