In today’s post, I will guide you through the best things to do in Bacalar, Mexico.
I will list the main attractions of the Pueblo Mágico, unique local experiences, and hidden gems to help you make the most of your trip.
“Bacalar, a Mexican Magical Town in the state of Quintana Roo, near Tulum and Playa del Carmen, is a very special place.”
Life here is much slower than in the big beach resorts. This beautiful town is situated on the shores of the spectacular Lagoon of Seven Colors, also known as the Bacalar Lagoon.
This lagoon is quite impressive, with seven different shades of blue. It can be admired from the beach clubs, hotels, and viewpoints, but it is also possible to explore it on the water.
How many days should you spend in Bacalar? Bacalar can be seen in one day but it is a place that is best to take slowly.
Two days would be ideal to really appreciate the beauty of the place and the laid back atmosphere.
You can also use Bacalar as a base to explore more of the area as there are many excursions and other places of interest to visit.
Where Is Bacalar, Mexico?
Bacalar is a small town in the southern region of Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Located on the Yucatán Peninsula near the Mexico–Belize border, it sits on the edge of the famous Bacalar Lagoon, about 38 km (24 miles) north of Chetumal, the capital of Quintana Roo.
“While Quintana Roo is famous for its tourist destinations of Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Bacalar offers a totally different experience, centered on the beauty of nature, the lagoon and a slow paced life.”
Bacalar can be a great stop on a trip to the southern Caribbean coast of Mexico.
It can be combined with a trip to Chetumal or be part of a longer road trip through the Yucatán Peninsula.
Whether looking for a relaxing lagoon getaway or to experience Mexico outside of the main tourist spots, Bacalar is a great destination.
Is Bacalar Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely! Bacalar is definitely worth a visit if you are looking for a place where natural beauty, relaxation, and the real Mexico come together.
While Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum are known for beaches and lots of action, Bacalar is quite different with its incredible freshwater lagoon, the quaint town and a very relaxed vibe.
Obviously, the main reason to visit Bacalar is to see the Lagoon of Seven Colors.
The beautiful colors of the lagoon provide a stunning setting for sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or just relaxing by the water for an afternoon.
You can also explore nearby cenotes, learn about Bacalar’s history at Fort San Felipe, and enjoy the many local restaurants.
“Bacalar is a great place to stay in small, boutique hotels.”
The town offers many nature-focused activities, allowing visitors to enjoy its laid-back atmosphere, explore at their own pace, and watch the colors of the lagoon change as the day progresses.
So, is Bacalar worth adding to your Mexico travel itinerary? Yes! For travelers looking for stunning natural beauty, unique accommodations, and relaxed travel experiences, Bacalar is a great place to add to your Mexico travel itinerary.
You’ll want to allow for at least two nights in Bacalar in order to fully experience the lagoon and all the attractions that make this special corner of Quintana Roo so worth exploring.
Top Things to Do in Bacalar, Mexico
Most of the best things to do in Bacalar are found on the incredible lagoon that surrounds the town.
There is also so much more to see than just the lagoon; including beautiful swimming areas, lots of outdoor activities and many historic sites as well as lovely streets.
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There are many ways to make your trip to Bacalar a memorable one, whether you are looking for an active vacation or simply wish to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Here are some of the experiences you might wish to include.
1. Tour the Lagoon of Seven Colors
Of course, the main attraction of Bacalar.
The Lagoon of Seven Colors is a natural lagoon known for its many shades of blue and turquoise, which change with the depth of the water, the sunlight, and the color of the limestone found on the bottom.
To truly appreciate the Bacalar Lagoon, a boat or sailing tour is the best way to explore its many features, such as the Canal de los Piratas, cenotes within the lagoon, and many spots to admire the colors of the water.
In addition to boat and sailing tours, there are also kayak and paddleboard tours of the lagoon, which can be enjoyed in the early morning when the water is calmest.
There are also many swimming spots along the lagoon’s edge for a relaxed afternoon.
Whatever you do, make sure you experience the lagoon from the water, not just from the shore.
2. Visit the Canal de los Piratas
The Canal de los Piratas, or Pirates’ Channel, is one of Bacalar’s most recognizable natural attractions.
“This shallow, turquoise stretch of water is surrounded by lush vegetation and has a fascinating connection to the area’s history of pirate activity and colonial trade.”
Today, it’s a popular stop on lagoon excursions, where visitors can admire the scenery, enjoy the clear water, and take pics of the striking colors.
Depending on the conditions and the rules in place, some tours may also allow time to swim.
The channel is a wonderful reminder that Bacalar’s appeal goes beyond its beautiful landscape: the lagoon has played an important role in the region’s history for centuries.
3. Explore Bacalar’s Cenotes
Bacalar has some of the most interesting cenotes in the region.
They offer a unique perspective on the way that water, limestone and land have created the Yucatán Peninsula.
Cenote Azul is one of the most visited cenotes here. It is a short drive from the center of Bacalar and is an impressive open-air cenote with deep blue water.
The contrast with the lagoon’s turquoise waters is striking. Cenote Azul is a great place to spend a day swimming in a natural setting.
Cenotes can also be seen within the Bacalar Lagoon, for example the Cenote Negro (Black Cenote).
Its name is derived from its dark appearance, which is due to its great depth in comparison to the shallow water of the surrounding lagoon. Tours of the lagoon also visit this area.
These cenotes present Bacalar’s natural beauty in different ways and make a great addition to your Bacalar itinerary.
4. Spend Time at Los Rápidos de Bacalar
This is another way to experience the water in the lagoon. The natural channel connects different sections, featuring clear water and gentle currents.
You can explore the site, swim or wade in designated areas, and even float along with the current where allowed. It’s also the perfect place to just relax for hours.
As Los Rápidos de Bacalar is a very popular attraction, you should plan enough time for your visit.
Please respect nature and avoid stepping on or touching the stromatolites and other delicate structures. And of course, don’t litter!
5. Visit Fort San Felipe
Bacalar is more than just nature; the town also has a rich history, with Fort San Felipe standing as one of its top attractions.
The Bacalar fortress, San Felipe, was built in the 18th century as a means to defend the settlement against pirate attacks.
Today, the fortress houses a small museum that provides information on the history of the region and some of the battles that took place here.
The fort is worth a look even if you are here for the lagoon. It has some interesting historic architecture and great views of the surrounding area.
6. Explore Bacalar’s Town Center
Take some time to explore the town center of Bacalar, where you can observe local life in a more relaxed atmosphere than around the lagoon.
“The main square is a great place to begin your stroll down the streets surrounding it.”
You can admire the beautiful architecture, visit the San Joaquín Church and stop in a café or restaurant for some refreshment.
Along the way you will find many small shops selling souvenirs and beautiful murals adorning the walls of the town.
Since Bacalar is a small town, you can easily explore its center on foot.
Late afternoon is a good time to take a break from your outdoor activities and experience the relaxed vibes of the town for an hour or two.
7. Enjoy a Sunrise Kayak or Paddleboard Experience
The best time to appreciate Bacalar is early in the morning, when the lagoon is super calm.
A sunrise kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) excursion is a great way to see the lagoon before the day gets too busy (and hot).
“The colors of the lagoon change as the sun rises and paddling is generally very peaceful at this time.”
Your accommodation or a local operator can set you up with a guided tour or equipment rental.
If you don’t feel like paddling, you can also just sit on a waterfront dock and enjoy the sunrise.
This is a great experience for anyone who loves nature photography, outdoor activities, or just experiencing a place in its most peaceful state.
8. Relax by the Lagoon at a Waterfront Beach Club
To relax and enjoy Bacalar, you don’t have to book any tours or activities, just find a nice spot next to the water and enjoy the peace and quiet for a while.
There are many establishments near the lagoon and plenty of swimming spots to enjoy the water.
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Most of these places offer loungers and umbrellas, restaurants, and even docks. Some places even offer free access, while others charge a small fee.
This is especially nice if you are staying for a few days, letting you relax by the water after a day of sightseeing.
Also, when choosing accommodations, it is worth checking for direct access to the Bacalar lagoon.
Make Time to Enjoy Bacalar at Your Own Pace
Just because there are many things to do in Bacalar doesn’t mean you have to pack them all into your itinerary.
“Combining lagoon time and a few excursions—with plenty of free time—makes for some of the best travel memories.”
You should aim to have at least 2 full days to experience everything that Bacalar has to offer.
This will give you enough time to explore the lagoon, visit a cenote, explore the historic town center, take a trip to Los Rápidos and still have time left to relax by the water in the afternoon.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Bacalar, Mexico?
The best time to visit Bacalar is between November and April.
This is the dry season, which means there is less rain, less humidity, and plenty of sunshine to enjoy the beautiful Lagoon of Seven Colors.
However, Bacalar is a year-round destination; the best time to visit depends entirely on your priorities, whether you are looking for great weather, fewer crowds, or better accommodation prices.
The Dry Season: November to April
For most people, the dry season is the best time to explore Bacalar.
The low rainfall allows for more outdoor activities such as boat tours, kayaking, and more.
“The dry season also allows for the beautiful colors of the lagoon to be seen in the best light.”
January to March is the best time for comfortable sightseeing and water activities. There are more visitors during this time, especially on holidays and school vacations.
It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance.
The dry season can also be visited in November and early December, before the holidays, and in April, although the weather can get very hot towards the end of the dry season.
The Rainy Season: May to October
The rainy season in Bacalar extends from May or June until October. During this period, the temperature is warm, humidity is high and there are more tropical showers than during the rest of the year.
Although the showers are mostly short, they can affect activities that are planned for outdoors and even lead to the cancellation of lagoon excursions.
On the positive side, you can find fewer tourists during the rainy season, as well as better prices for accommodation, especially outside of Mexican holidays.
The vegetation around the lagoon looks also more lush during this time of the year.
This is a good time to keep your itinerary flexible and book your main lagoon activities for the beginning of your stay.
If the weather is bad, you can then reschedule them for later.
Because September and October bring the highest rainfall and most tropical storms, you will need to remain highly flexible with your plans.
What About Hurricane Season?
Although Bacalar is located inland from the southern end of Mexico’s Caribbean coast, the area is still affected by tropical storms and hurricanes that develop in the Atlantic basin.
The official Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30.
Tropical storms can bring heavy rains, strong winds, and flooding, and they can even disrupt local travel and activities on the water.
Therefore, it is important to check local weather forecasts prior to your trip and follow any advice from local authorities.
Booking with flexibility and purchasing travel insurance can also provide peace of mind.
So, When Should You Plan Your Trip?
For the best combination of weather and activities to do outdoors, the best time to visit Bacalar would be between January and March.
November, early December, and late April are also good times to visit Bacalar as there are fewer visitors than in the peak season.
There is no perfect time to visit Bacalar, but with some planning, you can make the most of your trip, whether you are looking for sunshine and activities on the lagoon or peace and relaxation in the natural surroundings of Quintana Roo.
How to Get to Bacalar, Mexico
Located in southern Quintana Roo on the Yucatán Peninsula, Bacalar sits farther from the main Riviera Maya tourist hubs, though getting there is straightforward.
Because the town lacks a commercial airport, most visitors arrive by road from a nearby city via bus, rental car, or private transfer.
Flying to Bacalar: Which Airport Should You Choose?
If you’re traveling to Bacalar from another part of Mexico or from abroad, you’ll first need to choose the best airport for your needs.
- Chetumal International Airport (CTM) is located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of Bacalar. The drive is about 30–40 minutes.
- Another airport that can be considered is Tulum International Airport (TQO) located south of Tulum. Although it is further than Cancún International Airport, the onward journey to Bacalar is much shorter.
- Cancún International Airport (CUN) is located 345 km (214 miles) from Bacalar. However, there are many domestic and international flights to and from Cancún making it a great option for people traveling to the Mexican Caribbean.
Make sure to compare prices of flights to different airports, consider the connections and arrival times, and check out the options for onward travel to Bacalar.
The closest airport is not necessarily the most convenient or affordable for your travel plans.
How to Get to Bacalar from Cancún
There are several options for traveling south from the Cancún airport.
- Bus: ADO offers bus services to Bacalar from Cancún downtown. The trip can take anywhere from five to six hours depending on the service you choose. Buses are air conditioned and very comfortable.
- Car Rental: For more flexibility, you can rent a car and drive south on Federal Highway 307 through the Riviera Maya to Bacalar. The drive takes about 4-5 hours from Cancún Airport.
- Private Transfer: Private transfers to hotels are available from the airport and can be quite expensive, but are great for families, small groups and lots of luggage.
Traveling to Bacalar from Tulum or Playa del Carmen
When Bacalar is on the road of your travel around the Riviera Maya, you can reach it from Tulum or Playa del Carmen.
- From Tulum: The drive to Bacalar is approximately 2-3 hours depending on traffic and where you leave from. There are also direct buses from Tulum to Bacalar which take around 3 hours or so.
- From Playa del Carmen: It will take approximately 3.5-4.5 hours to drive from Playa del Carmen depending on traffic and stops along the way. Buses are also available to take you directly from Playa del Carmen to Bacalar if you prefer not to rent a car.
Always check the current bus schedules as journey times and frequency can change.
Taking the Bus to Bacalar
If you don’t have a car on your trip to Bacalar (or you simply don’t wanna drive), you can travel there by bus.
ADO (and other regional bus companies) provide service to Bacalar from Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Chetumal.
“Most of the bus services are comfortable enough for the long journey and you will not have to worry about parking your car or finding your way on unfamiliar roads.”
Book your tickets as far in advance as possible for travel during busy periods, such as holidays and weekends.
When you arrive in Bacalar, the bus terminal is located outside of the town center, so you will likely need to take a short taxi ride to your hotel, especially if you are staying on the lagoon.
Should You Rent a Car to Visit Bacalar?
Renting a car is not necessary if you are going to stay in Bacalar and most of your time will be spent on the lagoon.
There are buses to Bacalar and you can arrange local transport for individual trips.
However, if Bacalar is part of a larger Yucatán Peninsula road trip then renting a car can be useful to see places of interest, travel at your own pace and visit locations that are off the beaten track and not easily accessible by public transport.
Plan your route in advance, allow extra time for stops, and please don’t drive tired or intoxicated.
Before you book a car rental, compare the total price, including insurance and other extras.
So, What’s the Best Way to Get to Bacalar?
Which is the best option for you depends on where you are traveling from and what you plan to do while in Bacalar.
- For the shortest journey: Fly into Chetumal (if available) and then get a transfer to Bacalar.
- For international flight connections: Compare Cancún and Tulum airports based on your departure city, flight prices, and onward transportation.
- For budget-conscious travelers: Consider an ADO bus from Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, or Chetumal.
- For a road trip: Rent a car to explore the rest of the Yucatán Peninsula.
- For comfort and convenience: Arrange a private transfer, especially if you’re traveling with family or a group.
Where to Stay in Bacalar, Mexico
Choosing where to stay in Bacalar can make a big difference to your trip.
You can stay right on the Lagoon of Seven Colors with its turquoise waters or you can stay in town and be within walking distance of some great restaurants, cafes and other cool attractions.
There are many options for accommodation in Bacalar, from charming boutique hotels, waterfront properties to small guesthouses in town.
It will depend on your budget, style of accommodation and how you plan to spend your time.
Stay Along the Lagoon for the Best Views and Water Access
If you want to experience the Lagoon as much as possible then choose a hotel located right on the shoreline.
“There are many hotels with waterfront views, private docks, hammocks, swimming areas, kayaking options and other ways to enjoy being near the water.”
For couples looking for a romantic getaway, travelers wanting a quiet vacation, and anyone else who wants to make the lagoon a focal point of their vacation this is a great option.
Boutique hotels often have lush tropical gardens, outdoor seating areas, and well-designed spaces that complement the natural beauty around them.
Keep in mind that while there may be some cheaper waterfront accommodations than those in town; they will likely cost more during peak tourist seasons.
Be sure to check what each accommodation includes; having a view of the lagoon does not mean it has direct access to the water.
Stay in Town for Restaurants and Local Charm
A great alternative to staying near the lagoon is staying in the center of Bacalar.
Numerous restaurants, cafes, small shops, the main square, and Fort San Felipe are all within walking distance of local guesthouses, small hotels, and boutique properties.
While most of these options do not offer lagoon views, they sit a short walk from the waterfront and public swimming areas.
The town center is especially ideal for independent travelers, food lovers, and anyone on a budget.
Consider a Secluded Boutique Hotel or Eco-Retreat
Boutique hotels or eco-retreats located outside the main tourist areas of town are great options for travelers wanting more privacy and a stronger connection with nature.
The atmosphere of many boutique hotels is quiet, and many are housed in architecturally interesting buildings.
Many hotels have large gardens, open air dining, wellness facilities and even have direct access to the lagoon.
Secluded accommodations may be located some distance from restaurants and other attractions.
It is therefore advisable to check the transportation situation in advance and to find out whether the hotel has its own restaurant before booking.
Find the Right Place to Stay with Cavaro Journeys
Many of the hotels in Bacalar are beautiful, but they are not all suitable for you—it is all about finding accommodation that fits the experience you are looking for on your trip.
At Cavaro Journeys we help you discover accommodation that fits best with your preferences.
“This can be an intimate boutique hotel, a peaceful place on the lagoonfront or a base from which to explore the region.”
If you are planning to visit Bacalar and would like some personalized accommodation recommendations, we can help you find a place that suits your travel style, priorities, and budget.
