Surfing in Manzanillo is a very popular activity. While we are by no means professional, we like to try our skills on the waves here on a regular basis. One of the biggest frustrations for many surfers here is the lack of a convenient surf shop to purchase all the trappings that come with the surfer lifestyle.

To my knowledge, before now there were only two actual stores in Manzanillo where you could buy surf equipment and surfboards. One is close to the Santiago market, and the other is deep in Manzanillo's Downtown Centro called Revolucion. Both are nowhere near a surf break, or easily accessible.

Finally, however, our complaints have been heard! A new surf shop has been built just next door to Juanito's. Mi Paraiso Surf Shop offers everything from surf lessons to surfboard rentals and sales, surfing accessories and equipment, beachwear, and more! They are conveniently located just minutes from some of the best surf spots in Manzanillo. We are very excited to see them here.

We were very impressed with the Mi Paraiso surf shop setup. They are working very hard to promote local shapers, artists, and professional surfers. Currently featured is the work from Karol Surfboards. Locally shaped and lovingly built to be perfect for the waves in this are of Mexico.

We recently had a chance to speak to the owners of Mi Paraiso Leticia and Ricardo. Leticia runs the store, which was beautifully hand painted with ocean murals by the same artist that painted Bora's Music and Beer House. She is an accomplished artist in her own right, creating colorful and inspiring jewelry. Ricardo, another long time local, runs the Colima Surfside School in front of Bora's and gives surf lessons and tours to some of the best kept secrets in and around Manzanillo all week long. He and his teachers have been professional surfers and water men here for years, so you are in good hands with them.

A 1.5 hour surf lesson with them will cost you $45 and includes surf rental and rash guard. Or you can get a 2 hour lesson and a free t-shirt for $80. Boogie boards are $3/hour or $10/day, and Surfboard rentals are $10/hour or $25/day.

Stop by and check them out. If only to see the gorgeous murals that cover the building inside and out. They are very friendly, love to hang out, and want to share their extensive knowledge of the area. Ricardo used to run the 'coolest unofficial tourist information destination in Manzanillo', so if they don't know where to find what you are looking for, they know someone who does. Surf Manzanillo!!

13505 Miguel de Madrid Blvd.
Santiago, Manzanillo
leticia@mi-paraiso.com

Related posts:

1. Kids In The Surf- Photo Friday
2. Skimboard Mayhem!
3. Extreme Sports in Manzanillo
4. Travel Manzanillo for less than $30 a day