By Tucked away in Quintana Roo, southern Mexico, Bacalar Lagoon (also called the Lagoon of Seven Colors) is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. Known for its stunning blue hues, freshwater cenotes, and laid-back atmosphere, Bacalar is a paradise for those looking to relax, reconnect with nature, and escape the crowds.
Whether you’re after eco-friendly adventure, a romantic escape, or a budget-friendly Caribbean alternative, Bacalar Lagoon has something for every traveler.
What Makes Bacalar Lagoon Special?
- Seven shades of blue caused by varying depths, white limestone sand, and sunlight
- Freshwater lagoon, not the ocean—ideal for swimming, kayaking, and eco-tours
- Surrounded by cenotes, mangroves, and Mayan jungle
- Peaceful and uncrowded compared to Cancun or Tulum
It’s a designated Pueblo Mágico—a title given to Mexico’s most culturally and naturally significant towns.
Where Is Bacalar Lagoon?
- Location: Southeastern Mexico, near the Belize border
- State: Quintana Roo, Yucatán Peninsula
- Nearest airport: Chetumal International Airport (40 min drive)
- From Cancun: ~4.5 hours by car
- From Tulum: ~2.5 hours by car
Top Things to Do at Bacalar Lagoon
Kayak or Paddleboard the Lagoon
Explore the lagoon at your own pace. Most hotels and hostels offer rentals or guided sunrise tours.
Tip: Paddle to Pirate’s Channel (Canal de los Piratas) for turquoise waters and mineral-rich mud.
Swim in Cenote Azul
This 90-meter-deep freshwater cenote is located right by the lagoon. It’s great for swimming and snorkeling.
Entrance fee: ~$3–5 USD | On-site restaurant available
Relax at a Balneario (Public Waterfront Club)
Don’t have a lagoon-front hotel? Visit a balneario like:
- Balneario Ejidal
- Cocalitos
- Los Aluxes
They offer lounge chairs, swings, food, and direct lagoon access.
Take a Boat Tour
Local boat operators offer 2–3 hour lagoon tours to:
- Cenote Negro (deep blue sinkhole)
- Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island)
- Canal de los Piratas
- Stromatolites fields (ancient microbial reefs)
Prices: ~$20–30 USD per person | Eco-tours available
Try a Sunrise Yoga or Wellness Retreat
Many eco-lodges and boutique hotels offer yoga on floating docks or shaded gardens, making Bacalar perfect for wellness travel.
Explore Bacalar Town
Don’t miss the town’s charming centre:
- Fort San Felipe with lagoon views and pirate history
- Handicraft shops
- Local markets and taco stands
- Museo de la Piratería for history buffs
Bike Around the Lagoon
Rent a bike and cruise the shore. You’ll pass quiet jetties, hidden cafés, and eco-friendly hostels with private docks.
Where to Stay in Bacalar
| Type | Best For | Top Picks |
| Eco-lodges | Nature & privacy | Akalki, Eco Hotel El Nido |
| Boutique hotels | Couples & design lovers | Casa Hormiga, Hábitats Bacalar |
| Hostels | Budget travelers | The Yak Lake House, Blue Monkey |
| Waterfront cabanas | Families & groups | Villas Ecotucan, Casa Lamat |
Many Bacalar accommodations are eco-conscious, using solar power, composting toilets, and lagoon-safe products.
Where to Eat in Bacalar
- Mango y Chile – Vegan burgers and epic lagoon views
- Nixtamal – Modern Mexican with wood-fired dishes
- Los Aluxes – Relaxed dining with swings over the water
- El Manatí – Breakfast, smoothies, and artisan boutique
- La Playita – Great cocktails, ceviche, and music on the dock
Best Time to Visit Bacalar Lagoon
| Season | Months | What to Expect |
| Dry season | Nov–Apr | Clear skies, warm temps (best time) |
| Wet season | May–Oct | Occasional showers, fewer tourists |
| Hurricane season | Aug–Oct | Hot and humid, travel insurance advised |
The lagoon is most colorful and clear in the dry season!
Sustainable Travel Tip
Protect the lagoon: Avoid using sunscreens, oils, or cosmetics before swimming—even reef-safe types can harm the fragile stromatolites. Shower before entering the water.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for a peaceful slice of paradise far from the crowds, Bacalar Lagoon is the perfect destination. Whether you’re kayaking at sunrise, exploring ancient cenotes, or just soaking in the blues from a hammock, Bacalar promises natural beauty, relaxation, and cultural richness.
FAQs
Q 1: Why is Bacalar called the Lagoon of Seven Colors?
Bacalar Lagoon gets its nickname from the varying depths, limestone floor, and sunlight reflections that create stunning shades of turquoise, blue, and green.
Q 2: Is Bacalar Lagoon freshwater or saltwater?
It’s a freshwater lagoon, fed by underground cenotes, which makes it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Q 3: How do I get to Bacalar from Cancun or Tulum?
You can drive, take a bus (ADO), or hire private transport. From Tulum, it’s 2.5 hours; from Cancun, about 4.5 hours.
Q 4: Is Bacalar good for families or couples?
Yes! Bacalar is perfect for families seeking outdoor activities and couples looking for romantic, tranquil getaways.
Q 5: Are there any all-inclusive resorts in Bacalar?
Most accommodations are eco-boutique or locally run guesthouses—there are few traditional all-inclusives, making Bacalar a more authentic experience.
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