Bacalar: The Hidden Gem Known as Mexico’s Maldives

Did you know that just a few hours from Montréal, you’ll find a destination nicknamed the “Maldives of Mexico”? With its unbelievably vibrant waters, Bacalar definitely deserves a spot on your Mexico itinerary.

Located in the Yucatán Peninsula, this small village in the state of Quintana Roo will win you over with its huge freshwater lagoon and almost unreal shades of blue. It’s easy to see why it’s known as the Lagoon of Seven Colours. The water shifts from bright turquoise to much deeper shades of blue, sometimes all within the same stretch of water.

You can swim and relax in this natural paradise, which, contrary to what you might expect, is completely freshwater, not salty at all! Imagine spending the whole day in the water without sticky hair or eyes that sting.

Bacalar will mostly make you want to slow down and spend your days on the water, but there are still plenty of things to do if you decide to stay for a night or two.

What to Do in Bacalar?

Explore the Lagoon by Boat

One of the best ways to discover Bacalar is by hopping on a motorboat or sailboat. For around $35, you’ll visit some of the area’s most iconic spots, including several cenotes, the famous Pirates’ Channel, where you can swim in shallow turquoise water, and Bird Island.

You’ll spend close to three hours out on the water and, honestly, it goes by way too fast. You could easily spend the whole day out there!

If you’d rather explore the lagoon at your own pace, you can also rent a kayak or paddleboard and head out without having to stick to a schedule.

Travel tip: Prices are pretty similar from one operator to another, so there’s no need to book far in advance. You can arrange your boat tour the day before, either directly in Bacalar or through your accommodation.

Relax in the Water Hammocks at Cenote Cocalitos

Looking for a slow-paced day where the main goal is to do absolutely nothing? Head to Cenote Cocalitos. For less than $5 per person, you can settle into a hammock right in the water, gently swing around and enjoy the view. It’s hard to think of a better way to spend a few lazy hours.

You’ll also find local balnearios, or beach clubs, along the lagoon. They’re a great option if you want to spend some time by the water at your own pace without planning an activity for the entire day.

Let the Current Carry You at Los Rápidos

Looking for something a little more active? Head to Los Rápidos, basically nature’s version of a lazy river, where you can hop into the turquoise water and let the current carry you along.

The scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile. Stromatolites line the river, giving the landscape a pretty unique look. These rock-like formations are among the oldest traces of life on Earth! Admission costs around $15, and you can go down the river as many times as you like.

Discover Bacalar Beyond the Lagoon

Don’t visit Bacalar just for the lagoon. Take some time to explore the village, stop at a small local restaurant and enjoy the much slower pace of life before the destination gets even more popular.

Travel tip: If you want to make the most of your stay, avoid Wednesdays. Several boat tour operators and restaurants close that day, which could leave you with fewer options.

How to Get to Bacalar

If you’re flying from Montreal, you can land in either Tulum or Cancún and rent a car at the airport. From Tulum, Bacalar is about a 2.5-hour drive, and from Cancún it takes around 4.5 hours.

Bacalar also works as a day trip, although staying for a night or two gives you much more time to enjoy the lagoon and take it all in without having to rush from one activity to the next.

Where to Stay In Bacalar

The good news? Accommodations in Bacalar are still relatively affordable compared to the Riviera Maya.

Want to treat yourself a little? Look for a place with direct access to the lagoon. If you’ve come all the way to Bacalar to see those seven shades of blue for yourself, you might as well enjoy the view right from your accommodation!

Where to Eat In Bacalar

For a meal in the heart of the village, add Mr. Taco to your itinerary. You absolutely have to try the shrimp and fish tacos. Not a seafood fan? No problem. The menu has more than 20 different taco options.

If you’re hungry, stop by Mi Burrito Bacalar for one of their massive burritos, wrapped up in a banana leaf. You can either share one or keep the whole thing to yourself. Just be warned: the portions are big enough that your next meal might have to wait a little longer!

Mexico’s Best-Kept Secret?

Bacalar feels like a completely different side of Mexico compared to the buzz of Tulum and Cancún. Between the days spent on the water, the little restaurants in the village and the much slower pace, you’ll probably find yourself wanting to stay a little longer than planned.

Before hitting the road to Bacalar and its famous seven-colour lagoon, consider getting travel insurance. Get your quote from soNomad in just a few clicks and head to Mexico with peace of mind.