Tour to Agua Azul Island Departure from Merida to Yucatan

If you’re looking for a day that combines beautiful scenery, relaxed atmosphere, and local flavor, this tour to Agua Azul Island is worth considering. While it’s not your typical busy tourist bus ride, it offers a peaceful escape with plenty of photo opportunities and genuine moments on the water.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to enjoy the rustic swings over the sea — a perfect spot for snapping memorable photos — and the opportunity to unwind in a less commercialized setting. Also, the visit to Puerto Progreso allows for some leisure time on the beach, where you can indulge in freshly caught seafood and soak in the seaside views.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour leans more towards a private transportation experience rather than a narrated guided tour, which means you’ll have more flexibility but less structured commentary. This makes it ideal for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and a more personal feel.

If you love quiet beaches, stunning water vistas, and a taste of local life, this adventure suits those who want a laid-back but memorable day out from Merida.

Key Points

• Relaxing experience with plenty of time to enjoy the water swings and beach
• Private transportation ensures comfort and flexibility
• Authentic seafood at Puerto Progreso provides a tasty local flavor
• Short and manageable day trip of about 9-10 hours
• Limited group size (max 20 travelers) for a more personal touch
• Good for all travelers except those seeking a guided, narrated experience

A Deep Dive into the Agua Azul Island Tour

This tour is a solid choice for anyone wanting a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, paired with authentic moments along the Yucatan coast. What makes it stand out is the combination of natural beauty and relaxed pace — exactly what many travelers seek after days of sightseeing or cultural exploration.

Starting Point: Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup in Merida in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the journey comfortable even on warm days. A knowledgeable tour conductor accompanies you, providing a friendly and helpful presence throughout the day. The small group size — capped at 20 — helps ensure a more intimate experience, avoiding the feeling of large bus tours.

Isla Columpios: The Water Swings

Your first stop is the famed Isla Columpios, a true highlight of this excursion. This tiny paradise offers rustic swings placed inside the water, giving an ideal backdrop for photos and relaxed lounging. It’s about 3 hours at this stop, which is ample time to take plenty of pictures, soak your feet in the water, or just unwind while listening to the gentle waves.

The reviews here are glowing — one traveler described it as “a very relaxing day,” with praise for the peaceful atmosphere and friendly driver. The setting is simple but photogenic, with the swings often surrounded by calm, clear water. This is a genuine spot where you can disconnect and enjoy nature’s quiet beauty.

Continuation to Puerto Progreso

After the island, the journey continues to Puerto Progreso, a charming seaside town with a lively waterfront. Here, you’ll have about 3 hours of free time to explore on your own. You can stroll along the seawall, browse local handicraft stalls, or sit down for some fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants.

The Chuburná dunes offer a stunning natural backdrop, perfect for those scenic photos or simply marveling at the white sand and natural surroundings. This time allows you to soak in the local vibe and enjoy the ocean breeze.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee — $83.44 per person — includes transport in an air-conditioned vehicle, a tour conductor, traveler’s insurance, a boat ride (lancha), and baby seats if needed. However, it does not cover food and beverages during the stop, so you might want to bring some water or snacks, especially if you plan to linger longer at the beach.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

One of the best parts? It’s a full-day experience that balances structured stops with free time. The admission tickets to Isla Columpios are included, which means no surprises at the gate. And with confirmation received at booking, you can plan your day confidently.

The cancellation policy is flexible — free up to 24 hours in advance — allowing you to book with peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers seeking relaxation, authentic seaside scenery, and a low-key day out. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid overly commercialized tours and prefer a more personal, flexible itinerary.

While not a guided tour with lots of narration, the presence of a helpful driver and conductor adds a layer of comfort. This tour might not be ideal if you prefer a highly structured or educational experience or if you seek guided historical commentary.

Final Thoughts

This tour to Agua Azul Island offers an inviting blend of natural beauty, relaxed pace, and local charm. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to escape the city for a day and enjoy some of the Yucatan coast’s more tranquil spots.

The highlight — the rustic swings over the water — is truly photogenic and memorable. The time spent in Puerto Progreso gives a chance to sample local seafood and enjoy the seaside atmosphere, making this a well-rounded day trip.

Pricing is fair considering the included transportation, boat ride, and tickets, and the small group size enhances comfort and personal attention. If you’re after a peaceful, scenic, and authentic coastal experience, this tour hits the mark.

For those craving a flexible, laid-back day with stunning views and genuine local flavor, it’s a particularly good choice. Just bring your camera, some cash for snacks, and an open mind for a relaxed Caribbean-style escape.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle picks you up in Merida and takes you to the stops, making the trip comfortable and hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire day runs approximately 9 to 10 hours from start to finish, including travel time and stops.

Are there any food or drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included, so you might want to bring some water or snacks for the day.

What should I bring with me?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, camera, cash for souvenirs or extra snacks, and possibly a towel if you plan to swim.

Is this tour suitable for children or babies?
Yes, baby seats are provided, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families.

What makes this tour special?
The rustic water swings at Isla Columpios are a major draw, providing perfect photo ops and a relaxing atmosphere.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Are there guided narrations during the stops?
No, it’s more of a self-guided experience with free time at each location, but the driver and conductor are friendly and helpful.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour caps at 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and comfortable.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Travelers seeking quiet, scenic beaches, unique photo spots, and authentic local atmosphere will find this tour perfect. It’s great for anyone wanting a gentle, leisurely day by the sea without a lot of fuss.