Arriving at Merida International Airport or sailing into the port of Progreso puts you in one of the Yucatan's most vibrant beach towns. With its beaches, markets, and access to ancient Mayan ruins, Progreso offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The best way to explore is by renting a scooter, motorcycle or quad to zip around town and make easy day trips. Start your day with a stroll down the beautiful beachfront Malecon, stopping for a fresh ceviche at one of the seaside restaurants. Then head to the Progreso Pier, the longest pier in Mexico, extending almost 4 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. Walk or drive out along the pier and feel the ocean breeze. Stop halfway to enjoy views of colorful fishing boats bobbing on the waves. In the afternoon, visit the bustling Progreso market to pick up handmade hammocks, embroidered clothes and other crafts. Enjoy some local street food like panuchos, salbutes or cochinita pibil tacos. As the sun sets, grab a beer at one of the beach bars and watch the glowing colors spread across the sky. Just 27 km away, you can take a quick ride to the ancient Mayan city of Uxmal. Climb the Pirámide del Adivino and marvel at the intricate stonework. Or ride an hour south to Mérida, the cultural capital of the Yucatán, full of music, art and colonial architecture. With the freedom of your own wheels, you can discover cenotes for swimming, tiny fishing villages, flamingo-filled lagoons and more surrounding this port city. Progreso is the perfect base to experience Mexico's natural beauty, ancient history and beach town culture.