Bacalar Mexico is one of the best kept secrets in the Yucatán Peninsula and absolutely worth the trip whether you’re visiting Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum. It’s a peaceful, affordable escape known for its crystal-clear lagoon, relaxed atmosphere, and boutique stays.
If you’ve spent time in Tulum or Playa del Carmen, you’ve probably heard whispers about Bacalar Mexico. They call it the “Lake of Seven Colors,” and for once the nickname isn’t oversold. The lagoon really does shift from turquoise to deep blue like it’s been hand-painted.
Of course, no trip is ever as smooth as Instagram makes it look. Between getting pulled over by police, blowing out a tire in the jungle, and discovering guacamole the size of my head, our one-night getaway to Bacalar turned into exactly the kind of trip worth telling stories about.
Our family of three (two adults and one six-year-old) packed up the rental car, drove from Tulum, and spent one unforgettable night in Bacalar Mexico. And spoiler alert…I already want to go back.
If you’re going to spend any time in Tulum or are considering a visit, definitely check out our Tulum Travel Guide for local tips, common mistakes to avoid and everything you need to know for a perfect trip!
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A Little History of Bacalar
Before it became the laid-back lagoon getaway it is today, Bacalar Mexico was the first city in Quintana Roo, founded by the Spanish in 1545. It wasn’t exactly peaceful. Pirates loved to raid the area (probably because of all that beautiful blue water), which is why you’ll still see the Fort of San Felipe standing guard in the center of town. These days, the “pirates” are just tourists snapping selfies by the big Bacalar sign, but it’s fun to imagine.
How to get to Bacalar
The drive from Tulum to Bacalar takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, but if you’ve got a kid in the backseat, you know that means: planned pit stops.
We left Tulum before sunrise and stopped halfway in Felipe Carrillo Puerto for breakfast. The town isn’t fancy. It’s mostly taco stands, but we stumbled across a little café with surprisingly great coffee and our first-ever molletes (toasted bread with beans, cheese, and salsa). Breakfast win.
?Felipe Carrillo Puerto makes a great break if you’re driving from Playa del Carmen or Tulum to Bacalar. And make sure you stop at Yom’s Coffee Shop.
The Not-So-Fun Part: Police Stops in Mexico
Less than five minutes after breakfast, we got pulled over. The officers claimed we were speeding (even though we were going under the posted speed limit and hadn’t seen a single sign indicating the lower speed limit he was claiming) and told us we owed a 3,000 peso ticket payable the next day. Then, of course, they offered us a discount if we paid cash right away.
Here’s the problem: we had zero cash. Not even a coin. After some back-and-forth, they finally let us go with a warning. Intimidating? Definitely. Expensive? Thankfully not.
Travel tip: Police stops are common in Mexico. Stay calm and be polite.
Flat Tire in the Jungle
As if one adventure wasn’t enough, our tire blew out about ten miles before Bacalar. There we were in the jungle heat, no shade, and wrestling with a spare while our daughter asked 1,000 questions.
We limped our way into town and found a small tire shop..which happened to be packed with armed police officers who were getting their tires changed out. Looks like all those pot holes really take a toll on tires around here. Luckily, everyone was friendly, and for about $20 USD we had a new tire and a story to laugh about later.
Where To Stay in Bacalar Mexico
We booked the Asile Hotel Boutique, right in the heart of town across from the park and the ruins. For under $75 a night, it had comfy beds, hot water, coffee, and best of all…access to a beach club.
Since check-in wasn’t ready, they let us head straight to Mayan Playa Bacalar, the private beach club included in our stay.
?If you plan on staying here, you will definitely need a car in order to get to the beach club! If you don’t plan on driving yourself around, don’t worry. There are cabs available or public beaches within walking distance.
Other Hotels to Consider
A Day at the Bacalar Lagoon
This is what Bacalar Mexico is all about. The lagoon is so clear you can see fish darting around, some curious enough to swim right up to you. When I think “vacation”, this is exactly what I picture.
At the beach club, we had hammocks, lounge chairs, an extended dock, and almost no other people. We swam, snorkeled, and lounged with strong cocktails and delicious guacamole served in a stone molcajete.
Good to know: Many hotels offer beach club access, but if yours doesn’t, you can still find affordable day passes or look for public beach access.
Exploring Bacalar Town
That evening, the central park was buzzing with vendors selling jewelry, clothing, skincare, souvenirs, and street food. Our daughter ran wild on the playgrounds and we tried to find all of the iguanas that blended into the ruin walls. We counted well over 30.
We grabbed dinner at a rooftop spot, La Burguesía del Pueblo. The food was good, but the panoramic view of the ruins, lagoon, and lively park below was the real highlight.
Despite the busy center location, our hotel was quiet, and we slept like rocks.
The Next Morning in Bacalar
Breakfast at a bustling café near the park confirmed what we’d heard: prices in Bacalar are way lower than Tulum or Playa del Carmen. Afterward, we explored on foot. Bacalar is small, colorful, and very walkable.
We also learned that Wednesdays are boat-free days on the lagoon. It’s a local regulation to let the water “rest,” which makes it the perfect day for peaceful swimming.
Before heading back to Tulum, we stopped at Cenote Sayab Kuxtal, about an hour and a half away. It’s a really cool cenote that is filled with cave swallows and the infamous Toh bird! And it makes for a good halfway stopping point on the way back.
Best Time to Visit Bacalar
Bacalar Mexico is warm year-round, but here’s the breakdown:
- Dry Season (November–April): Best time to visit. Sunny skies, clear water, less humidity.
- Rainy Season (May–October): Expect heavy afternoon showers, but fewer crowds and cheaper rates.
- Hurricane Season (August–October): Still beautiful, but keep an eye on the forecast.
We visited mid-week in the rainy season and practically had the lagoon to ourselves. And it didn’t even rain, even though there were some dark looking clouds and thunder in the distance. Which is actually my perfect kind of weather.
Is Bacalar Safe?
Bacalar Mexico is generally relaxed and family-friendly, but a few tips will help you enjoy your visit without surprises.
The lagoon is stunning, but some areas are surprisingly deep. Keep an eye on kids while swimming, or bring floaties if little ones aren’t strong swimmers. While the iguanas and birds are fascinating (and very bold), it’s best not to feed them and to give them space. Also, keep away from the shores as there are crocodiles who live here! And be sure to keep an eye out for manatees! Unfortunately, we did not see any.
Cash is important in Bacalar. Many small shops, markets, and even some restaurants don’t take cards, so carrying small bills makes life much easier. You’ll also want to stay alert on the roads. Speed limits aren’t always posted, and rural areas can have unexpected police stops, or ginormous pot holes, so driving cautiously is key.
Finally, locals are friendly and welcoming. A simple “buenos días” or a smile goes a long way when interacting with vendors, hotel staff, or guides. Small gestures like this will make your experience in Bacalar even more enjoyable.
For even more tips on staying safe while exploring Mexico, check out our Mexico Page which is filled with practical info and safety tips.
Best Things To Do in Bacalar Mexico
While we spent most of our time lounging at the lagoon and enjoying the beach club, Bacalar has plenty of other things to keep travelers busy. Families and adventure-seekers alike can rent kayaks or paddleboards and glide across the shimmering waters of the Lagoon of Seven Colors. If you’re more into sightseeing, boat tours are available that explore the lagoon’s hidden cenotes and offer fascinating stories about the area’s history.
History buffs will love visiting the Fort of San Felipe, an 18th-century fort right in town that offers a glimpse into Bacalar’s pirate past and some incredible views of the lagoon. The town itself is also a delight to wander, with colorful streets, artisan shops, and local markets perfect for picking up souvenirs or tasting street food. Even simply strolling along the waterfront at sunset is an experience on its own. The way the light hits the water makes it feel almost magical.
For those willing to venture a bit further, several hidden cenotes in the surrounding area are perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkeling session. Whether you’re looking for adventure, history, or just a peaceful day soaking up the scenery, Bacalar has something to offer everyone.
We use GetYourGuide to research great excursions in the area. Click the link to explore all the adventures you can get yourself in to!
Tips for Visiting Bacalar Mexico
- Cash is king. Some restaurants and shops don’t take cards, and cash helps with unexpected situations (see: police stops).
- It’s cheaper than Tulum. Food, hotels, and activities are noticeably more affordable here.
- It’s family-friendly. Playgrounds, calm swimming areas, and walkable streets make it great with kids.
- Day trip or overnight? You can do Bacalar as a long day trip from Tulum, but staying at least one night (like we did) makes it way more relaxing.
- Border bonus. Bacalar is just an hour from Belize, so it’s a perfect stop if you’re planning to cross.
Is Bacalar Worth It?
Absolutely. Even with a police stop and a flat tire, Bacalar was one of the most beautiful, affordable, and family-friendly places we’ve visited in Mexico.
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, Bacalar Mexico is a hidden gem worth visiting. Seeing the colors of the Bacalar Lagoon alone is reason enough to make the trip, and the mix of town charm, kid-friendly activities, and affordable accommodations makes it a must-see in the Riviera Maya.
Need more travel inspo? Don’t worry, we got you covered.
Is Bacalar worth visiting?
Yes — Bacalar is one of the most beautiful and affordable lagoon destinations in Mexico, offering calm turquoise water, relaxed small-town vibes, and family-friendly activities without the crowds of Tulum.
How do you get to Bacalar?
Bacalar is accessible by car or bus from major Riviera Maya destinations. Most travelers drive from Tulum or Playa del Carmen, stopping in small towns along the way. You can also take an ADO bus from Cancun, Playa, or Tulum directly into Bacalar town.
Is Bacalar safe for travelers and families?
Yes — Bacalar is generally safe and relaxed, especially around the lagoon and town center. The biggest things to watch for are road conditions, unexpected police stops while driving, and deep water areas if you’re visiting with kids. Being polite, cautious, and aware on the road goes a long way.
Do you need cash in Bacalar?
Yes — many small restaurants, market stalls, tire shops, and local vendors only accept cash. ATMs are available, but bringing pesos makes things easier, especially if you face travel surprises like a police stop or a flat tire.
