The Best Activities to Do in Bacalar, Mexico

Why Bacalar?

Bacalar is a stunning destination in the southern part of Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is often called the "Lagoon of Seven Colors" because of the different shades of blue in the water. This town is a great choice for travelers who want a slower pace and a more budget-friendly experience compared to busy spots like Tulum. As a seasoned traveler in love with Mexico's diverse cultures, I can confidently say that Bacalar is where magic comes to life. You can enjoy beautiful places like this while incorporating slow travel and eliminating the need for a massive budget.

I visited Bacalar for my first time in January 2022, just after New Year's (RIP Betty White). My journey started with the high energy of Isla Mujeres and Tulum, then ended in the serene atmosphere of Bacalar, located further south in the state of Quintana Roo. If you seek serenity and adventure, here are the top activities I'd recommend to make the most out of your stay.

Travel Requirements And Getting To Bacalar

United States citizens traveling to Mexico must have a valid passport to enter the country by land or air. A tourist visa is not required if the stay is for less than one hundred and eighty days. Most people fly into the Cancun International Airport and take a bus or drive five hours south to reach the town. I personally took the bus from Tulum to Bacalar, and then a taxi to my resort. Visit the Ado website to view the bus schedule.

Another option is to fly into the Chetumal International Airport which is much closer and only a forty minute drive away.

1. Explore the Lagoon of Seven Colors on a Boat Tour

The main attraction here is definitely the Lagoon of Seven Colors. I highly recommend diving into a boat tour because it really unveils the secrets of the lagoon. As you move across the water, you will see the different shades of blue shift in the crystal clear depths. These tours are essential for seeing the most famous spots like the Pirate Channel and various cenotes that feed into the lagoon. Joining a group tour is an excellent way to keep your costs low while still getting a full experience of the area.

2. Visit a Beach Club

One of the best ways to enjoy the lagoon is by visiting a balneario, which is a public or private beach club. These spots offer a way to access the water for a small fee, which is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Many balnearios provide basic amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. Balneario Cocalitos is a popular choice where you can see ancient rock-like structures called stromatolites in the water. Visiting these spots allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of the lagoon while keeping your meal costs down by bringing your own snacks, just like our philosophy of seeking value in every trip.

3. Unwind on Lagoon Swings

If you are looking for that perfect moment of peace, you have to find a spot with lagoon swings. I stayed at a quiet resort with direct water access where the swings were the perfect place to unwind early in the morning or just after lunch. It's the ultimate way to surrender to the peaceful rhythm of Bacalar.

4. Kayak During Sunrise

Kayaking during the sunrise was the highlight of my trip. I woke up super early to get to the kayak station as soon as they opened. It was still dark when I went out into the water and was able to capture this photo. Find a resort that offers kayaking for free.

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5. Have Dinner at Nixtamal

My resort had a great restaurant, so I only went out to eat once and chose Nixtamal. It DID NOT disappoint! Beautiful outdoor ambiance with delicious food and a great selection of craft beer.

Visit Bacalar

I really enjoyed my time in Bacalar, as it provides the perfect vibe that I need as someone who doesn't like busy cities or the party scene. If you're looking to practice slow travel, enjoy nature, and avoid the high price tag of the more commercialized areas of Mexico, I highly recommend visiting Bacalar.