Playa Sisal

I'm puzzled by the low ratings for this charming and pristine town, which boasts an immaculate and inviting beach. The palapas, while a bit pricey at $150, offer delicious food and friendly vendors selling delectable desserts. In comparison to Progresso, this beach is far superior and there are also plenty of decent restaurants to choose from.

I decided to visit the beach on a weekday to avoid the crowds. The small town boasted a lengthy stretch of sand that was perfect for a leisurely stroll, with just enough sandy area to bask in the sun. Although the scent of the sea and the abundance of seaweed didn't bother me, the sight of litter scattered around the beach was a concern. There were no trash cans in sight, except for those located off the beach towards the town. Unlike Puerto Morelos, the beach wasn't being maintained, and there were no workers around to keep the area clean. A woman even came around to demand payment for the use of a palapa, causing some visitors to move out or pay up. My husband had to argue with her that we weren't using a palapa, as we were simply trying to relax in its shade. The palapas stretched far down the shoreline, all waiting for people to use them and pay. This experience felt more like a money trap than a relaxing day at the beach. Although I would like to say that I enjoyed my time there, having been spoiled by the helpful and kind workers at Puerto Morelos in Quintana Roo, I am unsure if I will return. Perhaps I will explore other beaches in the area instead.

The beach offers of pristine white sand and warm, shallow waters that vary depending on the day. On some days, there may be a presence of sargasso, but it is significantly less compared to other beaches in Yucatán. The afternoon breeze can be quite strong, but it adds to the refreshing atmosphere of the place. However, the tour to the spring may not be worth the cost as it is a short distance away and not as picturesque as expected. During my visit in late April, there were hardly any birds to spot, and the shallow waters may not be suitable for kayaking. Despite these minor setbacks, the beach charges a flat rate of 500 pesos per person, regardless of the activities you choose to do. It is unfortunate that the locals do not take care of their resources, and the once-thriving fishing industry is now limited to expensive and rare catches, with no variety like other ports along the Yucatán coast. Nevertheless, the beach remains a beautiful destination to unwind and relax.

The beach is primarily for locals and not worth the journey from Merida. It is a small, local beach with limited facilities and did not feel welcoming to outsiders. The drive to the beach is through a small town with a single lane shared with bicycles, carriages, and mopeds. We left after a short visit due to the uncomfortable stares and unfriendly faces. The beach and its surroundings were littered with trash and unkempt. I fail to understand why YouTubers and bloggers are promoting these places to tourists. Many of these places are not equipped to handle tourists and do not make for a pleasant outing, but rather a waste of time and energy. Despite the price gouging in Progreso, it is still a better option than this beach. It is important to note that other reviewers have mentioned a DUI checkpoint when leaving the beach, but we did not experience it as we left earlier in the day. Progreso also has a police DUI checkpoint when leaving the beach.

The beach is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking locations on the face of the Earth. Its natural beauty is unparalleled, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking solace and serenity amidst the wonders of nature.