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The coast town of Manzanillo is located in Colima, which is one of Mexico's most beautiful states. Situated beside two bays and located along the water's edge, Manzanillo is a beach resort that also boasts having sunshine for 350 days of the year. Explore the dive sites, play a round of golf or try to reel in the catch of a lifetime. What more could you ask for?

Manzanillo can roughly be divided into two sections. The downtown area is filled with stores, restaurants and businesses. Wandering throughout this area gives you a glimpse of what it would be like to live here. The Santiago Peninsula has the resorts and tends to become a home base while vacationers are visiting.

Of course, the main reason people come to Mexico is for the beaches. Playa L'Recif has a coral reef close to the shore and thus, is ideal for snorkeling and diving. The north end off Santiago Bay is a favorite for both locals and tourists and can get quite busy. One of the benefits of coming here though is enjoying a meal at the small restaurants located in the area. Adventure seekers will love Peña Blanca where you can take a 4 x 4 ride and see Manzanillo in a whole new way. Treasure hunters, or those who are just plain lucky, will want to spend some time at Playa de Oro. Although not ideal for swimming, the rough waters have damaged a few ships and sunk one filled with gold. Rumor has it that you just might find some. Keep in mind as you search for gold that this stretch of beach is also a common place to tan in your birthday suit.

Tear yourself away from the beaches, and treasure hunting, and you can also discover the other gems Manzanillo has to offer. Colima Volcano is one of the most active volcanoes in the country. The adventurous can visit the Grotto of San Gabriel where half the adventure is making your way down, waaaay down, to the bottom and exploring the cave system. The other half of the adventure is making your way back up it. Or, you could visit the beautiful El Salto, which is a 100-foot waterfall.

The Turtle Sanctuary is a treat for anyone interested in learning how Manzanillo is protecting these graceful creatures. Interestingly enough, it survives on private donations. You may be surprised with how many fishing poles you see people carrying around. Manzanillo is one of the best places to go fishing. In fact, it brags that it is the Sailfish Capital of the World. There is even a competition every fall and spring to see the pros, and wannabe pros, reel in their impressive catches of the day.

Manzanillo is unlike most popular Mexican destinations. It is not a place to go for shopping or an intense nightlife. It is a place filled with fantastic scenery, pristine beaches and stunning waters that are teemed with fish. If it is relaxation that you are longing for, Manzanillo is a wonderful choice for a vacation destination.