Founded in 1872 by Don Juan Miguel Castro, Progreso was established to create a seaport closer to Mérida than the older port of Sisal.
Today, Progreso is known worldwide as the home of the longest pier on the planet — the incredible Progreso Pier, which stretches an astonishing 4 miles (6.5 kilometers) into the Gulf of Mexico.
This Mexican maritime wonder turned 84 years old in 2025, and its original steel-and-cement section has withstood decades of hurricanes. Built by the Danish firm Christiani & Nielsen, the pier is a true engineering marvel. Supported by 146 arches, the original structure began construction in 1936 and was completed in 1941.
Over the years, several renovations and expansions have extended its length, making it resemble a bridge to a distant land. Today, the Progreso Pier is one of the most important shipping points in the Gulf of Mexico, handling massive volumes of imports and exports daily. It has also become a growing hotspot for cruise ships over the past decade.
But Progreso isn’t just a hub of commerce — it’s also a lively beach town with plenty to offer:
A scenic boardwalk perfect for oceanfront strolls
Water sports like surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking
Local restaurants serving up fresh regional cuisine
Large supermarkets and a bustling central marketplace
A main square, government buildings, hotels, hospitals, and banks
Currency exchange houses, taxis, and charming handicraft shops
Beloved by locals, Progreso is the go-to beach destination for Yucatecans, especially during holidays. Families flock here in Easter, July, and August to soak up the sun, relax by the sea, and enjoy everything this coastal gem has to offer.
