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There are great many things to do in Mexico, and so are in Progreso.
Welcome to Progreso, where the sun and sea invite you to dive into an ocean of possibilities.
Discover a world of adventure, relaxation, and exploration as you uncover the hidden gems that this vibrant coastal town has to offer.
From the salty brine of its pristine beaches to the rich cultural heritage of its history and art, Progreso is the perfect destination for those seeking to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.
So, grab your sunscreen, put on your shades, and let Progreso work its magic on you.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Progreso:
1. Malecon Progreso
Malecon Progreso is a beautiful waterfront promenade that stretches for several kilometers along the Gulf of Mexico in Progreso, Yucatan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean.
There are also many restaurants, bars, and shops along the way, making it a great spot to grab a snack or souvenir.
In addition, there are several statues and monuments to admire, including a famous sculpture of a giant octopus.
Don’t miss: Make sure to stop by the Progreso Pier, which is one of the longest piers in the world. It’s a great spot for fishing or watching the sunset.
Insider travel tips: If you want to beat the crowds, head to the Malecon early in the morning or late in the evening. Also, be sure to bring plenty of sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense during the day.
Finally, don’t be afraid to haggle with vendors if you’re interested in purchasing anything.
2. Progreso Beach
A beautiful and relaxing beach in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.
What to see or do: Enjoy the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, sunbathe on the soft sand, and take in the stunning views of the ocean.
Don’t miss: The pier, which stretches over 6 kilometers into the ocean and provides great photo opportunities of the beach and surrounding area.
Also, be sure to try some of the delicious seafood from the local restaurants.
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of sunscreen and water as the sun can be intense. If you’re looking for a quieter beach experience, visit during weekdays as weekends can be crowded.
Additionally, consider taking a boat tour to explore the nearby mangroves and spot wildlife like flamingos and pelicans.
3. Progreso Pier
A long pier that stretches out into the ocean in Progreso, Yucatan, Mexico.
What to see or do: Walk along the pier, relax on the benches, soak up the sun, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Don’t miss: The stunning sunset views from the end of the pier, where you can see the sun dip below the horizon and the sky turn a beautiful array of colors.
Insider travel tips: Try to visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water as there is little shade along the pier.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try some fresh seafood at one of the nearby restaurants.
4. Progreso Lighthouse
Progreso Lighthouse is a historic structure located in the port city of Progreso, Yucatan, Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb the lighthouse and enjoy stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and the city.
Don’t miss: Watching the sunset from the top of the lighthouse is a breathtaking experience that should not be missed.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the beautiful views.
It is also recommended to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and heat.
5. Parque Santa Lucía
Parque Santa Lucía is a charming park located in the heart of Progreso, a popular beach town in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.
What to see or do: The park offers a variety of amenities and activities that are perfect for tourists and locals alike.
You can stroll around the tree-lined paths or relax on one of the park benches and soak up the laid-back ambiance.
Santa Lucía is also a fantastic place to listen to live music and watch traditional dance performances.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the park is the colorful kiosk that sits at its center. The turquoise structure is a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the park.
Insider travel tips: – Stop by the park in the evenings for a chance to see and participate in the “Vaquería” dance, a traditional Yucatan dance performed under the stars.
6. Ecological Reserve
An ecological reserve located in the port city of Progreso in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.
What to see or do: The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife including flamingos, crocodiles, and turtles. Visitors can explore the reserve by foot or boat.
The reserve offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the flora and fauna of the area.
Don’t miss: The reserve is famous for its pink flamingos, so make sure to catch a glimpse of them wading in the shallow waters.
Also, don’t miss the chance to spot the unique crocodiles and turtles that call this place home.
Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day. Wear comfortable shoes and bring insect repellent.
If you’re taking a boat tour, make sure to bring a hat, sunscreen, and water. And, always remember to respect the wildlife and their natural habitat.
7. Xcambó ruins
Xcambó is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located near the town of Progreso in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins of a pre-Columbian coastal trading center that was inhabited from 500 BC to 1400 AD.
The main attraction is the large ceremonial center which contains various structures including temples, pyramids, courtyards and ball courts.
Don’t miss: The most impressive structures in the complex are the main temple, which is made up of several levels and offers fantastic views of the surrounding area, and the restored Palace of the Masks, where visitors can see some of the original stucco masks that inspired its name.
Insider travel tips: – It is best to visit Xcambó in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hot sun and the crowds.
8. Chuburna Puerto
Chuburna Puerto is a small coastal town located in the municipality of Progreso, Mexico.
What to see or do: The town’s main attraction is its beach, with calm and clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Visitors can also enjoy fresh seafood at several beachside restaurants, or take a boat tour to see flamingos and other wildlife in the nearby mangroves.
Don’t miss: The town’s annual fish festival, which takes place in August and features local seafood dishes, live music, and dance performances.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent, as the beach can get quite hot and buggy.
It’s also a good idea to brush up on some basic Spanish, as English is not widely spoken in the town.
Finally, Chuburna Puerto is a great destination for travelers looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more laid-back Mexican beach experience.
9. Coco Beach Club
A luxurious beach club in Progreso, Yucatan.
What to see or do: Relax in style on the pristine white sand beach or take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
The club offers private beach cabanas, a swimming pool, a beachfront bar, and a restaurant serving delicious seafood and tropical drinks.
You can also indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment or go on a kayaking or paddleboarding excursion.
Don’t miss: The spectacular sunset views from the beachfront cabanas or the infinity pool. The club also hosts live music events and beach parties, so check their calendar of events before you go.
Insider travel tips: Book your cabana in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly. If you’re interested in water sports, ask the staff about the best spots for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong Mexican sun.
10. Flamingo Watching Tours
Flamingo Watching Tours in Progreso, Mexico offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to get up close with the vibrant flamingos of the Yucatan peninsula.
What to see or do: Tourists will embark on a boat ride through the picturesque estuaries and lagoons of the Celestun Biosphere Reserve, where they can observe flocks of pink flamingos in their natural habitat.
Don’t miss: Keep an eye out for the flamingos feeding and taking flight, their striking pink color makes for a breathtaking sight.
Insider travel tips: – The ideal time to take part in these tours is between November and March, when the number of flamingos is at its highest.
11. Dzibilchaltún Archeological Site
Dzibilchaltún is an ancient Maya archaeological site located just outside of Merida, Mexico, and is believed to have been continuously inhabited from 500 BC until the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ruins of the former city, which covers a large area and includes impressive structures such as the Temple of the Seven Dolls, the Acropolis, and the Main Plaza.
The site also features a museum with exhibits of artifacts found at the site, including pottery, jade, and stone tools.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of Dzibilchaltún is the Cenote Xlacah, a natural pool that was sacred to the Maya and offers visitors the opportunity to cool off with a swim.
Additionally, visitors can observe the Solsticio de Verano, a phenomenon that occurs twice a year where the sun lines up with the Temple of the Seven Dolls, casting a shadow over a particular stone.
Insider travel tips:
12. El Corchito Ecological Reserve
El Corchito Ecological Reserve is a natural wonder located near the small fishing town of Progreso, in Yucatan, Mexico.
It is a protected area that serves as a sanctuary for a variety of flora and fauna, including some endemic species.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a boat ride through the mangroves and observe a variety of birds, fish, and reptiles. There are also trails to walk or bike on, and a natural cenote where visitors can swim and snorkel.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the reserve is the cenote, which is a large, crystal-clear pool of water fed by underground rivers. Take a dip in the refreshing water and swim with the fish!
Insider travel tips: Bring sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. The reserve can get crowded, so it’s best to arrive early in the day.
Additionally, hiring a guide is recommended to ensure a safe and informative experience.
13. Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Tours
Scuba diving and snorkeling tours in Progreso, a port city in Yucatan, Mexico, located on the Gulf of Mexico.
What to see or do: Explore the crystal clear waters and abundant marine life of the Gulf of Mexico through scuba diving or snorkeling tours. Discover colorful coral reefs, shipwrecks, and tropical fish.
Don’t miss: An opportunity to swim with whale sharks, which are the largest fish species on the planet.
Visiting nearby Isla Holbox is highly recommended during the summer months (May to September), where the whale sharks can be found.
Insider travel tips: – If you’re a beginner, choose a tour that offers lessons from a certified instructor.
14. San Benito Market
A bustling local market in the seaside town of Progreso, Mexico.
What to see or do: Shop for fresh produce, seafood, and handmade crafts at the many stalls and vendors. Enjoy a tasty bite to eat from one of the food vendors serving up traditional Mexican cuisine.
Don’t miss: The seafood section of the market, where you can find some of the freshest catches of the day. Be sure to try the ceviche, a local specialty.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning for the best selection of goods and to beat the crowds. Practice your bargaining skills as many vendors are open to negotiation.
Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.