The Yucatan Peninsula has become one of my favorite places in the world and one that I could keep visiting over and over again! It’s beauty and natural diversity continue to amaze me — from the lush green jungles to the incredible wildlife (jaguars, manatees, monkeys, oh my!) to the ancient ruins, this area of Mexico is filled with incredible adventures.
While Tulum has become a popular spot on the coast of the peninsula, there is a lesser known paradise just a few hours south: a stunning lagoon filled with beautiful turquoise waters. So on my last trip to Tulum, I visited Laguna Bacalar — also known as “the lake of seven colors” for its many shades of turquoise — and was not disappointed!
Read below for the guide to visiting Laguna Bacalar!
How to Get to Laguna Bacalar
From Tulum, Laguna Bacalar is about a two and a half hour drive. There are tons of rental car options in both Cancun and Tulum so driving is definitely an easy option! We did a day trip there from Tulum in our rental car and had no problems — the roads were easy to navigate and the directions straightforward. We left early in the morning and with plenty of time to get home just before sunset so we didn’t have to do any nighttime driving!
Another option is to take the ADO bus from Tulum. The bus station is centrally located in Tulum pueblo and one-way first class tickets are under $10 per person making the bus an excellent option if you don’t want to drive! If you do plan to take the bus, just plan for a little extra travel time as buses are generally slower with some stops along the way.
Things to do at Laguna Bacalar
With its pristine waters and laid-back atmosphere, Laguna Bacalar is the perfect place to unwind. While you may just want to sit back, relax and enjoy the lagoon, there are also plenty of activities to keep you busy!
- Boat Tour: since Laguna Bacalar is pretty big, the best way to explore it is by boat! We decided to do a private boat tour (about $35 for a few hours!) and were able to explore all the lagoon has to offer. By boat, we were able to swim at a sandbar, swing on a secret rope swing, explore several cenotes and see the stromatolites (layered deposits of limestone and some of the oldest fossils on Earth!).
- Paddle Board or Kayak: there are several places around the lagoon (like Paddle Bacalar) that offer paddle board or kayak rentals and guided tours. A great way to explore the lagoon while being active!
- Visit Pirate’s Cove: this natural canal was used by pirates in the 1600s to reach Bacalar from the Caribbean! Now it’s a popular swimming spot where the locals claim that the sulfur rich mud is beneficial for your skin. So lather on some mud for a DIY facial and relax!
Where to Eat in Bacalar
With Bacalar being a small, laid-back town, I wasn’t sure what to expect in terms of dining options. I was pleasantly surprised to find that there were several lakeside restaurants serving up delicious Mexican fare.
- La Playita: with a prime location right on the lagoon, La Playita is your destination for cocktails with a view! The food was some of the best I had on my trip in the Yucatan and made even better by the relaxed, tropical ambience.
- Los Aluxes Bacalar Hotel: stop by this hotel on the lagoon for lunch and a swim! With over-the-water swings and a dock stretching out over the turquoise water, you’ll want to spend the whole afternoon relaxing here.
- Kai Pez: another restaurant with lagoon views — this beautiful spot serves delicious food and cocktails as well!
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