Mérida: Beach tour and restaurant with ocean view with a local guide

Exploring Mérida’s Beaches: A Local-Guided Tour to Isla Columpios and Progreso

If you’re visiting Mérida and craving a break from city tours, this beach adventure offers a different side of the Yucatán Peninsula—one filled with stunning ocean views, gentle relaxation, and authentic local flavors. While the tour is quite structured, it manages to balance convenience with enough flexibility for you to enjoy the seaside at your own pace.

Two things stand out: the two-hour visit to Isla Columpios — a tranquil spot perfect for lounging and wildlife spotting — and the delicious, ocean-view lunch in Progreso that promises fresh seafood and splendid vistas. The only downside? It’s a full day, so it requires some planning—like making sure to eat a hearty breakfast beforehand.

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of nature, comfort, and cultural charm. If you’re keen on relaxed beach days with a local guide to help navigate, you’ll find this trip well worth its moderate price. Just remember, it’s best for those comfortable with group outings, water activities, and a bit of walking.

Key Points

• Authentic coastal experience with visits to Isla Columpios and Progreso
• Flexible itinerary allowing for photos, wildlife, and relaxation
• Includes transportation, snacks, and a sea-view lunch for good value
• Small group setting (limited to 6), ensuring attentive guiding
• Two hours on the island to unwind and enjoy the natural surroundings
• Ideal for those seeking a laid-back day near Mérida with scenic photo ops

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

This seven-hour day trip kicks off early, with a 9 a.m. departure from Parque de La Mejorada in downtown Mérida. The friendly vibe starts right away as the transportation—either a Jeep or SUV—takes you on the roughly 45-minute drive east toward Puerto Chuburná, the gateway to your seaside adventure.

First Stop: Isla Columpios – Relaxation and Wildlife

The highlight of the day is the two hours spent on Isla Columpios, a serene spot accessible only by boat. Here, you’ll find a simple yet charming environment: hammocks swaying in the breeze, shallow waters perfect for wading or swimming, and plenty of opportunities for photos.

The guide is attentive, providing snacks and cool drinks, so you won’t go hungry or thirsty. If wildlife interests you, keep an eye out for the local flora and fauna, which you’re encouraged to record. Some reviews mention that the island is “a peaceful escape” with “spectacular views and a relaxing atmosphere.”

Note: There’s no dry land here—you’re mostly walking in water or on sandy surfaces—so waterproof shoes or sandals are a smart choice. Also, it’s a nature reserve, so respectful behavior toward wildlife and vegetation is expected.

Lunch in Progreso: Ocean View and Local Flavors

After your island downtime, you’ll head to Puerto Progreso for a hearty lunch at a restaurant boasting panoramic sea views. The menu is extensive; whatever you choose, it includes a drink at no extra charge—be it a beer, michelada, or a soft drink. While the second dish or additional drinks are at your own expense, the included meal really hits the spot after a morning in the sun.

Guests often mention that the seafood is fresh and the setting makes for fantastic photos—great for social media. Several reviews highlight the “spectacular views” and “delicious food” as the best parts of the meal.

Free Time and Exploring Progreso

Post-lunch, you get an hour to stroll the beach, browse shops for souvenirs, or simply relax with a cold drink. Many appreciate this relaxed window to soak up the atmosphere or pick up a keepsake.

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Return Journey: Comfort and Convenience

The return trip takes about 45 minutes, bringing you back to Mérida by late afternoon. The small group size means you get personalized attention, and the entire experience is designed for comfort and enjoyment, not rush.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $115 per person, this tour includes transportation, access to Isla Columpios, snacks, drinks, and a generous lunch—all in a manageable 7-hour window. Compared to booking separate transport and meals, this package simplifies logistics and often offers better value, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

While the cost excludes extra drinks, souvenirs, or additional meals, the core experience of relaxing on a pristine island and enjoying a seaside meal makes it worthwhile. Plus, with flexible booking and the chance to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, travelers can plan with confidence.

The Breakdown of the Experience

Transportation: Comfort and Convenience

The use of a Jeep or SUV ensures a smooth ride, and the roughly 45-minute drives give you a chance to relax and chat with your guide. Small groups (max 6) mean more personalized attention and a cozy vibe, ideal for travelers who prefer intimate outings.

Isla Columpios: A Tranquil Oasis

Two hours might seem short, but it’s enough to relax, take photos, and enjoy the natural beauty without feeling rushed. The inability to stay dry emphasizes the need for appropriate footwear, but it also makes the experience more authentic—being in the water adds to the laid-back charm.

The Lunch Experience: Scenic and Flavorful

The ocean-view restaurant is a highlight, offering a chance to indulge in fresh local dishes while gazing out at the surf. The included drink enhances the meal, and the option to order more at your expense means you can tailor the dining experience to your appetite.

Free Time in Progreso

An hour of leisure allows you to stretch your legs, browse for souvenirs, or just sit back and watch the waves. It’s a gentle way to absorb the local vibe without feeling pressed for time.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

This tour isn’t about big bus crowds or commercialized attractions. It’s about genuine moments—chatting with your guide, capturing pictures of wildlife, and savoring authentic Yucatán flavors. The guide, Daniel Gorocica, is praised for being attentive and accommodating, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

A few reviews mention the importance of bringing essentials: change of clothes, towel, camera, cash, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent. The guide provides snacks and drinks, but you’ll want your own for extra hydration or additional snacks.

Keep in mind, the tour is conducted in multiple languages—Spanish, English, and Italian—so communication is accessible for most travelers. The small group size ensures you’ll have a more personal, less hurried experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for relaxed travelers who want to explore the coast without much fuss. If you love taking pictures, relaxing on beaches, or trying fresh seafood in a scenic setting, you’ll appreciate what this tour offers. It’s great for families, couples, or small groups of friends.

However, if you prefer a full day packed with historical sites or adventure activities, this might feel too light. Also, those with limited mobility might find the water-based activities more challenging, but the scenic views and laid-back atmosphere compensate well.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this Mérida beach tour offers a balanced mix of nature, local cuisine, and relaxed sightseeing. Both Isla Columpios and Progreso provide authentic touches of life by the sea, with enough flexibility to make the day your own. The value is good considering the included transportation, meals, snacks, and guiding service.

For anyone wanting a day away from the city with stunning views, friendly service, and a taste of the coast, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those who like laid-back, scenic adventures that highlight the simple pleasures of the Yucatán Gulf.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a Jeep or SUV throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free trip.

How long do we spend on Isla Columpios?
You’ll have two hours on the island, enough to relax, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings without feeling rushed.

What is included in the meal?
The lunch is at a restaurant with ocean views, and it includes any dish and a drink at no extra cost. Additional drinks or dishes are at your own expense.

What should I bring?
It’s recommended to bring a change of clothes, towel, camera, cash, biodegradable sunscreen, flip-flops, beachwear, a daypack, charged smartphone, insect repellent, and a garbage bag.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most ages, keep in mind the water-based activities and natural environment. Small children should be supervised, especially on Isla Columpios.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for changing plans.

Are there any hidden costs?
The tour covers most essentials, but extras like souvenirs, additional drinks, or food outside the set menu are not included.

In summary, this beach experience from Mérida delivers scenic beauty, cultural charm, and excellent value in a relaxed, authentic setting. If you’re after a day of gentle adventure, great photos, and good food with friendly guidance, this tour is a solid choice to add to your Yucatán itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby