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

Mérida: Beach Tour and Ocean-View Lunch with a Local Guide – An Authentic Yucatan Experience

This 7-hour tour offers a balanced combination of relaxation, scenic views, and local flavor for anyone eager to see the Yucatecan Gulf from a different perspective. For $115 per person, travelers start from downtown Mérida and visit Isla Columpios—a relaxing island spot with hammocks, wildlife, and water activities—before heading to a seaside restaurant in Puerto Progreso for a generous, ocean-view lunch.

Led by a local guide, this small-group experience (limited to 6 participants) emphasizes flexibility and personal attention, making it ideal for those who enjoy tailored outings. The tour’s highlights include spectacular photo opportunities at both the island and the restaurant, along with enough free time to explore at your own pace. An honest consideration: travelers should plan to walk in water on Isla Columpios, as there are no dry areas, and be ready for a nature-filled day.

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Key Points

• Price: $115 per person, offering good value for a full day of activities
• Duration: 7 hours, starting at 9 a.m. from Mérida
• Highlights: Visiting Isla Columpios for relaxing and wildlife spotting, enjoying a sea-view lunch in Puerto Progreso
• Group Size: Small groups limited to 6 participants ensure personalized guidance
• Flexibility: The tour is adaptable to special requests and free time options
• Practical tips: Bring water, biodegradable sunscreen, towels, and waterproof footwear for walking in water

Starting Point and Transportation Logistics in Mérida

The tour begins at Parque de La Mejorada, between the monument to the heroic children and the Los Almendros restaurant. The local guide is easily recognizable in an Experiencias con Goro uniform, with the driver in a Toh’urs uniform. Transportation is by jeep or SUV, providing a comfortable and scenic 45-minute transfer to Puerto Chuburná, where Isla Columpios is accessible.

The ride offers a smooth start, setting a relaxed tone for the day. The small group size keeps the atmosphere intimate and allows for quick adjustments or questions during transit.

Relaxing at Isla Columpios: Water, Wildlife, and Snacks

Once at Puerto Chuburná, visitors gain two hours of free time on Isla Columpios. The island features hammocks for lounging, and visitors can soak their whole body in the water, take photos of local wildlife, or sip refreshing drinks supplied by the guide. Snacks and light refreshments are provided during the stay, enhancing the comfort while enjoying the natural surroundings.

Walking in water is inevitable because there are no dry zones on the island. The environment is a nature reserve, so guests are encouraged to respect wildlife and vegetation throughout their visit.

Lunch with a View in Puerto Progreso: Seafood and More

After returning to the mainland, the group heads to a seaside restaurant in Puerto Progreso for a two-hour lunch. The restaurant features a wide menu, and each person can choose any dish and drink at no extra cost. Both seafood and other local specialties** are available, and the spectacular ocean view makes every bite more enjoyable.

Meals are served with a view of the sea, perfect for capturing social media-worthy photos. Guests can also opt to order additional dishes or drinks at their own expense after the included meal.

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Free Time After Lunch: Beach Walks and Souvenir Shopping

Following the meal, visitors have another hour of free time. This period is ideal for a stroll along the beach, browsing local shops for souvenirs, or enjoying a cold beer in the fresh sea air. All additional purchases are at personal expense, but the relaxed setting makes it easy to unwind and soak in the coastal vibe.

Return Journey and Final Stop at Parque de La Mejorada

The tour concludes with a 45-minute transfer back to Parque de La Mejorada in Mérida. The entire experience ends around 4 p.m., leaving travelers with plenty of time to continue exploring the city or head to their next destination.

What’s Included and What to Keep in Mind

This tour includes transportation, access to Isla Columpios, snacks and drinks, a sea-view lunch, and a local guide. It’s a cost-effective way to enjoy the beaches of the Yucatán without the need for independent planning.

Note that drinks and food outside the guide’s cooler, additional dishes or drinks at the restaurant, souvenirs, and extra transfers are not included. Travelers should bring cash for extras and water, biodegradable sunscreen, and waterproof footwear for walking in water. The tour is suitable for those comfortable with walking in water and spending time outdoors.

The Guide and Group Experience

Led by Daniel Gorocica, the guide is known for being friendly and helpful, providing snacks and drinks during Isla Columpios, and offering flexibility for special requests. The group only accommodates up to 6 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure.

The multilingual guides (Spanish, English, Italian) help make the experience accessible to a diverse range of travelers, and the small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere.

Comparing Similar Tours and Unique Features

This tour distinguishes itself by combining nature, relaxation, local cuisine, and scenic photography opportunities. Compared to other beach tours in Mérida, the focus on Isla Columpios offers a peaceful alternative to crowded beaches, with the added convenience of lunch with ocean views.

The flexibility of the schedule and the small group format create a more personalized experience, ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed day with authentic touches.

Final Thoughts on the Mérida Beach Tour with Ocean-View Lunch

This 7-hour experience provides a well-rounded day for anyone wanting to combine nature, scenic views, and local cuisine in the Yucatán. The relaxing time at Isla Columpios, combined with delicious seafood lunch, makes it an excellent choice for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.

While the walking in water can be challenging for some, the spectacular scenery and wildlife make it worthwhile. The small group size and guide’s flexibility further enhance the personal feel of the tour.

This tour is a solid option for travelers looking to enjoy the coastal beauty of the Yucatán in a relaxed, guided setting that balances adventure with comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking in water on Isla Columpios, which may not be ideal for those with mobility concerns or very young children. Comfortable footwear and water-friendly attire are recommended.

What should I bring for the day?
It’s best to bring water, biodegradable sunscreen, a towel, a change of clothes, a camera, cash for extras, and beachwear or flip-flops. A garbage bag is useful for keeping the environment clean.

Can I customize the schedule or activities?
Yes, the tour is flexible and open to special requests. The guide leads you through the planned activities but can adapt to your preferences when possible.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The booking process allows you to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

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