The town of Bacalar is located on the west shore of the lake and adds coziness to this marvel of nature. We recommend spending a day or two exploring the Bacalar area. We prefer to relax whenever we visit the lagoon, but there’s a ton to do here as well.

Start with spending time in a unique hotel facing the lagoon and watching how those shades of blue are changing throughout the day. Then hop on a half-day boat tour and visit some remote features of the lagoon.

And of course, stroll through the authentic town and get some food. We also encourage you to visit Bacalar while it’s still considered off the beaten path compared to Tulum or Valladolid. Its nature is still untouched, and the town feels much more authentic.

Bacalar Town

Cenote Azul is a natural swimming hole just outside of Bacalar town. The cenote is known for its crystal-clear blue waters, which are surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees. The water is also quite deep, making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling.

One unique feature of Cenote Azul is that it is actually part of a larger system of underground rivers and caves that run throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. The cenote is connected to several other nearby cenotes, which means that you can explore the entire network of underground waterways if you are an experienced diver and feeling adventurous.

You can access the cenote via a series of wooden platforms and stairs that lead down to the water's edge. There are also several small restaurants and food stands nearby where visitors can grab a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.

Cenote Azul

Bacalar Lagoon is a unique, crystal-clear freshwater lake with all kinds of hues of blue – from dark turquoise to sandy-clear blue, similar to those you can find in the Maldives. Some even call this lagoon the “Maldives of Mexico”.

You can swim, snorkel, kayak, and paddleboard in the lagoon, but we recommend taking a boat tour to truly appreciate the beauty of this place by exploring its various channels and also learning about its history and ecology. Check out our vetted recommendations in the links section.

Sailboat tour

Boat tour

Kayak rentals

Laguna Bacalar

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I’d consider Aires Bacalar if you want a stay with scenic views. Being downtown is handy for exploring.

We couldn't believe that a small nearby destination can offer such a diverse and epic adventure. But Yucatan delivered, with its unique mix of beautiful white-sand beaches, stunning nature with wildlife, and Mayan ruins with one of the seven wonders of the world – Chichen Itza. Enjoy!

Aires Bacalar is an art hotel located near the main square in downtown Bacalar, just a few steps away from the lagoon, making it a perfect spot to explore the area. Its simple, organic design philosophy is all about authenticity and being connected to nature.

The rooms are designed to create a sensation of serenity, with natural elements that celebrate the beauty of imperfection. Each room's terrace gives you access to a tropical garden or a magnificent view of the lagoon.

Art mingles with nature in Aires Bacalar, with murals paying homage to the amazing beauty of local natural life and the identity of local culture. The hotel celebrates the unique and exceptional with crafts made by local artisans that embellish every corner of the hotel.

The swimming pool is treated with free of aggressive chemicals and generates an ecological cycle that is respectful of nature. With hammocks made by local indigenous people, hand-embroidered textiles, and several other fine details, Aires Bacalar has created a very special atmosphere.

You can enjoy a delicious breakfast of fresh ingredients like locally grown fruit, artisan bread, and homemade marmalade. You can enjoy the best of local gastronomy, traditional crafts, and many local restaurants within walking distance.

Aires Bacalar

A laid-back Caribbean family escape with just enough adventure.

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Yucatecan Adventure

Known as the lagoon of seven colors, Bacalar is a serene paradise perfect for kayaking or simply floating on its tranquil waters. Don't forget to swing by the Cenote Azul for a dip in its crystal-clear depths.

Bacalar

Aires Bacalar

How this stay fits your trip

Before booking

Things to do around Bacalar

Laguna Bacalar

Bacalar Town

Cenote Azul

Yucatán Peninsula routes to compare