Bacalar, The Lagoon of Seven Colours

Welcome to Bacalar, the jewel of southern Quintana Roo and one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets and just a few hours down the road from the tourist hot spot of Tulum! It is often overshadowed by Cancún and Tulum to the north but, Bacalar is a haven for travellers in search of tranquility, natural beauty, and a taste of authentic Yucatán charm. It’s got that off-grid magic, without sacrificing great food, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.

The Lagoon That Captivates

At the heart of Bacalar is the legendary Laguna de los Siete Colores; the Lagoon of Seven Colours. This vast, freshwater lagoon is renowned for its surreal, electric shades of blue, caused by its white limestone bottom and varying depths. Whether you’re paddleboarding at sunrise, sailing in the afternoon breeze, or floating in the shallow waters of Los Rapidos, it’s pure serenity.

No salt, no waves; just still, crystalline beauty.

Touches of History

Though Bacalar is a sleepy town today, it holds deep historical significance. Once a vital Maya trading post, it was later the site of violent pirate attacks during the colonial era. To protect the town, the Fuerte de San Felipe was built in 1729;  a stone fort that still stands guard today and now houses a modest but fascinating museum tracing Bacalar’s battles and maritime heritage.

You’ll also find remnants of Spanish colonial architecture in the town centre, a subtle nod to centuries of layered history.

Architecture Meets Nature

Bacalar’s built environment is modest but charming. You won’t find skyscrapers or massive resorts here. Instead, think pastel-coloured colonial homes, timber jetties stretching into the lagoon, eco-conscious cabins, and boutique guesthouses designed to disappear into the natural surroundings. This is architecture that respects and enhances the landscape; ideal for those seeking beauty in simplicity.

The newer hotels and hostels are beginning to incorporate vernacular design: palapa roofs, natural woods, and sustainable techniques that nod to traditional Maya construction.

A Backpacker’s Paradise

Bacalar has quietly grown into a backpacking gem. Hostels like The Yak Lake House and Casa Lahar sit right on the lagoon, offering hammocks, kayaks, and a buzzing social vibe. The town strikes the right balance: it's lively enough to meet people, but still peaceful enough for deep rest and exploration.

Food & Culture

For a small town, Bacalar punches above its weight in terms of food. You’ll find:

Street tacos and marquesitas in the plaza at night.

Lakeside restaurants offering fresh ceviche and mezcal cocktails.

Artisan coffee shops perfect for slow mornings and digital nomads.

Local festivals, like Carnaval and the Festival of San Joaquín, bring colour and rhythm to the streets, with music, dancing and processions that give a window into life in the Yucatán.

Nightlife – Low Key But Lovely

Don’t expect a rave scene; Bacalar is more hammock than house music. But that doesn’t mean it’s dull. Bars like La Catrina or Finisterre offer live music, cocktails, and the kind of laid-back vibe perfect for swapping stories under the stars.

Want something wilder? Hostels often host themed nights, BBQs, or lagoon cruises with music and drinks, these are where you can really let of steam in a similar manner to that of straw hat in Tulum (shots from a water gun sort of vibe).

Things To Do

Kayak or SUP across the lagoon; sunrise is sublime.

Swim at Cenote Azul, a deep, mysterious sinkhole surrounded by jungle.

Cycle around town and discover quiet local eateries and viewpoints.

Visit Los Rapidos, a flowing channel where you can float downriver with the current.

Sail at sunset; easily one of the most peaceful ways to experience the lagoon.

Getting There

From Tulum: 3.5–4 hours by ADO bus or collectivo.

From Chetumal: 45 minutes by road, making it a perfect stop before heading into Belize.

From Mexico City: Fly to Chetumal, then travel north.

Travel Tips

Bacalar is safe and welcoming; just use normal traveller smarts.

ATMs are limited; bring cash from Tulum or whereever you are coming from!

Respect the lagoon. Sunscreen, soaps and other chemicals damage the fragile ecosystem. Use reef-safe products or rinse off before swimming.

Go off-season (May–June or Sept–Oct) for fewer crowds and great weather.

Why Bacalar?

Because sometimes, adventure is about slowing down. Bacalar offers a totally different vibe to the rest of the Riviera Maya; no mega-clubs or traffic, just stunning waters, good people, and a touch of soul. Whether you’re here for the lagoon, the history, or the peacefulness, Bacalar leaves a lasting impression.