Beach communities across Yucatán brace for an influx of tourists

Coastal communities across Yucatán are preparing for their first true Easter Holiday season since 2019.

Activity at some of the state’s most popular beach destinations has already increased considerably during the past couple of weeks.

Merchants, restaurateurs, and street food vendors are hoping for a return to normal profits during this holiday season, though many are still cautious.

“We will have to wait and see. Yes we expect a good turnout, but who knows if people will actually be spending, the economy is really in the toilet,” said a Progreso coconut stand vendor, José Martin. 

State authorities are exerting caution and reminding businesses that masking and social distancing guidelines still apply, despite several days without any officially reported new infections.

Earlier: New residents in Yucatán flock to the beach

Though tourism is vital to Yucatán’s coastal communities, several residents resent the disruptions, garbage, and noise that come with large numbers of visitors. 

The town of Chicxulub is planning to officially open its Sendero Jurásico, or Jurassic Trail, just in time for Semana Santa, or Holy Week. 

Aside from tourists from across Mexico and abroad, a large proportion of those expected to flock to the beaches are expected to hail from nearby cities including Mérida and Valladolid.

Adding to the appeal of Yucatán’s beaches in Yucatán state is that several miles of coastline in Cancun and the Riviera Maya are reported to be overrun with sargassum.