Things To Do
in Bacalar
Bacalar is a quiet town on the edge of the Yucatán Peninsula known for its stunning Lagoon of Seven Colors. The lake’s waters shift from vibrant turquoise to deep blue as sunlight and depth change, creating photo-worthy scenes at every turn. The town blends Maya heritage with a relaxed Caribbean vibe, anchored by the historic Fort San Felipe overlooking the water.
Visitors come for boat trips, cenotes nearby, and laid-back evenings along the lakefront paseo.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim in the stunning Bacalar Lagoon, known for its incredible shades of blue. Afterward, take a leisurely kayak ride to experience the beauty of the lagoon from a different perspective. Enjoy breakfast at a quaint café with views of the water, sampling local dishes.
In the afternoon, visit the Cenote de la Bruja, a mystical cenote that provides the perfect underground swimming experience. Relax on the shore or take a guided tour to learn about the ecological significance of the cenote. Savor a picnic lunch under the shade of the surrounding trees, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for a dinner featuring fresh seafood and traditional Yucatecan flavors. Stroll along the waterfront promenade to watch the beautiful sunset while sipping on a refreshing drink. You can end the evening with live music offered at various venues in town, capturing the vibrant spirit of Bacalar.
Begin the day with a visit to the historic Fort San Felipe, which offers panoramic views of the lagoon and a glimpse into Bacalar's past. Explore the fort's museum to learn about the area's rich history, including the pirate invasions that shaped it. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, gathering energy for the day's adventures.
In the afternoon, take a guided boat tour that highlights the lagoon's natural wonders, including the famous 'marine lilies'. Be sure to pack a camera to capture the stunning scenery and unique wildlife. For lunch, find a beachside taco stand and indulge in authentic Mexican street food.
As night falls, explore the local markets and craft shops where you can find unique handicrafts to take home. After shopping, dine at a vibrant taqueria that captures the flavors of Bacalar with a casual atmosphere. Spend the evening by the lagoon, stargazing under the bright Mexican sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride within town | $3-7 |
| 🛶Lagoon boat tour (per person) | $25-60 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning turquoise-lagoon scenery with dramatic color shifts
- Relaxed pace and friendly local vibe
- Single-base access to cenotes, wildlife, and cultural sites
- Good value for moderate-budget travelers
- Limited large-scale nightlife compared with bigger resort towns
- Occasional highway detours or road construction can affect travel times
- Public health facilities are basic; plan for major needs in larger cities
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Puede recomendarme un restaurante cercano?" - Can you recommend a nearby restaurant?
- "Hablo un poco de español" - I speak a little Spanish
Places to Visit in Bacalar
Visit one of these nice places.
Multiple shorelines and boat decks offer dramatic shots of the lagoon’s color gradients, especially during early morning or late afternoon light.
Historic fortress with whitewashed walls and lake-facing battlements; great for silhouettes at sunset.
A striking blue cenote with clear water; reflections and underwater features provide compelling photography subjects.
Long lakeside promenade perfect for sunset photography, street life, and candid moments along the water.
Narrow turquoise-water canal framed by lush banks; ideal for wide-angle shots and color contrasts.
Food in Bacalar
Bacalar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A bright lime-infused chicken soup with tortilla strips; a comforting starter or light meal.
Must-Try!
Fish marinated with a flavorful achiote paste and grilled; often served with rice and salad.
Maya-style marinated fish (often wahoo or similar) wrapped in banana leaves and cooked; aromatic and zesty.
Fresh fish cured in citrus with onions, cilantro, and chili; perfect as a light meal or starter.
Slow-roasted pork with annatto and spices; a Yucatán classic available in some bacalar eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market where you can taste local fruits, salsas, tortillas, and prepared snacks.
Various lakefront vendors offering tostadas, fresh coconut, and seafood snacks during the evening chill.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Buenos días' / 'Buenas tardes'; say 'gracias' and 'por favor' in conversations.
Follow posted rules, avoid touching formations, and take all trash with you.
In churches and traditional spaces, wear modest clothing and remove hats when indoors.
Ask permission before photographing people or private properties.
Safety
Tipping in Bacalar
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip 10-15% if service is not included. Small tips for taxi drivers, guides, and bar staff are appreciated.
Cash in MXN is widely accepted; many places also take cards. ATMs are common in town; carry some cash for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with regular tropical sun. Best to do outdoor activities early in the morning or late afternoon; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Expect frequent afternoon showers and occasional tropical storms; dramatic skies can create fantastic light for photography but plan indoor backups.
Typically milder, less humidity, and plenty of sunny days. Great for long lagoon walks and outdoor exploration.
Bacalar at Night
Hiking in Bacalar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate loop around the cenote with viewpoints and shaded sections; great for photography and a quick hike.
Flat, scenic trail along the Bacalar Lagoon offering birdwatching and panoramic water views.
Airports
How to reach Bacalar by plane.
Closest airport to Bacalar; typically about a 40–60 minute drive to town. Serves domestic and some international routes.
Major international hub about 3–4 hours by road from Bacalar; many domestic and international flight options.
A longer option (~4–5 hours by road) with connections to Mexico and beyond; useful if combining with a Yucatán itinerary.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families with Maya influences and long-time residents who maintain traditional crafts and markets.
Visitors from Mexico City, Mérida, Cancun, and other parts of the country seeking a relaxed lakeside escape.
Visitors from the US, Canada, Europe, and Latin America attracted by the lagoon, cenotes, and nature.
Some long-term visitors choose Bacalar for extended stays and quiet living by the water.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Paddling along the calm lagoon is a popular way to view the colors up close.
Accessible for beginners and offers great vantage points for photography.
Local boat tours and shore fishing are common along the lagoon and nearby cenotes.
Gentle water activity ideal for families and beginners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bacalar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many menus feature vegetarian options like bean-based dishes, frutas, salads, and grilled vegetables. When ordering, use phrases like 'sin carne' (no meat) and 'sin mayonesa' (no mayo); ask for sides of beans, rice, or fresh vegetables to round out meals.