12 Amazing Things to Do in Bacalar, Mexico (That Aren’t Just the Lagoon)

Last Updated on April 10, 2025 by Oliver

If Tulum had a low-maintenance, genuinely cool little sister who wasn’t trying to go viral on TikTok, it would be Bacalar.

Oliver and I first visited Bacalar in 2023 at the verrrryy end of an 8-month backpacking trip and honestly, it was everything I needed it to be and more. After the chaos of Playa Del Carmen, the influencers of Tulum, and the tourist circus of Cozumel, Bacalar felt like the authentic Mexican town I was looking for. Locals were just… living their lives. No rush. No hustle. Just slow mornings, clear water, and a real sense of calm.

I’ve been back twice since, once right after my brother’s wedding (needed the reset) and again before heading to Belize with some girlfriends. And every time, I fall a little harder for this sleepy little town.

But here’s the thing: Bacalar is sleepy. Like, you-don’t-need-a-boat-tour-every-day sleepy. So if you’re wondering what else there is to do here besides floating in blue water and achieving peak relaxation this is your guide.

These top 12 things to do in Bacalar are all first-hand. All honest. And written with the intention of giving you a glimpse into the magic of Bacalar—I mean, it’s literally a Pueblo Magico for a reason. So, let’s get into it!

12 Things to do in Bacalar Mexico

1. Float Down Los Rapidos

This is one of the funnest things I’ve done in Bacalar, so I highly recommend it!

When I went to Los Rápidos with my girlfriends, we basically turned into kids at a waterpark, except instead of chlorine and screaming toddlers, it was crystal-clear turquoise water and mangroves. Absolute dream.

You pay a 160 peso entrance fee (totally worth it), get handed a life jacket, and from there… it’s game on. You can float up and down the river all day long . The current is just strong enough to carry you, so you barely have to move like a natural lazy river. We’d let ourselves drift for a bit, climb out, walk back along the boardwalk, and do it all over again. Rinse, repeat, laugh your butt off.

The water is unreal. It’s shallow in some spots, deep in others, and the shades of blue are crazy. The colors shift from light teal to this rich, almost dark blue water. I’ve never seen anything like it. There are little spots to chill, swim, and snack, and the vibe is super relaxed.

How to Get to Los Rápidos

It’s about a 15–20 minute drive from Bacalar town, and you’ll need a taxi or a rental car to get there—don’t try to walk, unless you’re really into hot pavement and bad decisions.

Our taxi cost around 250 pesos each way, but make sure to arrange your return ride in advance. We didn’t, and had to ask the workers at Los Rápidos to call us a taxi back. That basically meant we were at the mercy of whatever driver they could find. Luckily, he was super nice and charged us a fair price. Still, save yourself the gamble and plan ahead.

Also: wear a swimsuit, bring a towel, and leave the reef-harming sunscreen at home. The lagoon is full of stromatolites (ancient, living rock formations—wild, I know), and regular sunscreen can really mess with them.

2. Kayak or Paddleboard to Explore Bacalar Lagoon

A great way to see the lake is by paddling around on your own or with a group. One morning I signed up for a sunrise paddleboard session with Yak Lake House and it was pure magic. The lagoon was glassy, the town still asleep, and the sun literally rose out of the water. I honestly can’t imagine a better start for the day.

You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards on your own. One of my friends kayaked the whole dang lagoon in about 3 hours. You can stop at all the same spots the boat tours hit, just at your own pace (and without the background reggaeton).

⚠️ Heads up: the lagoon is closed on Wednesdays to let nature do her thing and recover—which honestly, love that for her.

Book the Yak Lake House Bacalar Sunrise Stand Up Paddleboard Session here!

3. Take a Sailing Tour of the Stunning Lagoon

Okay, I know the title says “things to do besides the lagoon,” but honestly, sailing the lagoon needs to be at the very top of your list of things to do in Bacalar. I’ve been on this tour twice — once with Oliver and again solo after my brother’s wedding — and both times, I’m so glad I chose this specific boat tour.

I’m pretty sure most boat tours are the same, but I can only speak from my experience. This one was a sailboat, so you get that peaceful, engine-free vibe (if the wind’s right). No loud motors or engine noise like some of the pontoon tours, just the sound of the wind in the sails and the occasional splash of water.

We hit four epic spots: Cenote Negro, Pirate’s Channel, Bird Island, and a final shallow swim spot while watching the sunset. The captains are chill and super informative about the lagoon’s history and wildlife, which I loved. You get three beers and a massive plate of fresh fruit to share — perfect for sipping and snacking as you float through paradise.

This Bacalar boat tour is about 3 hours long, and on my first trip, Oliver and I brought a few extra drinks (it was sunset, okay? We were vibing). Just a little heads up: I recommend taking a taxi to the dock where the tour companies leave from, we walked and it was brutal.

10/10 experience — I’d absolutely recommend this tour.

4. Visit Cenote Cocalitos (and See the Stromatolites!)

The first time I visited Bacalar, Cocalitos Resort was closed for renovations, and the only way to get to the cenote was either through the resort or by kayaking over. So, when I came back and saw that they had reopened, I was seriously excited to check it out.

Okay, full honesty: while the water here is absolutely stunning, I think there are better things to do in Bacalar. The cenote has become a bit of a tourist attraction, with hammocks and swings popping up around the dock area. It can feel a little too touristy at times, especially if you’re looking for a more peaceful vibe.

That said, the water is breathtakingly clear, and it only costs 50 pesos to get in, so if you’ve got a free morning or afternoon, it’s a solid spot to spend a few hours. Plus, it’s one of the best places to see the natural beauty of stromatolites—those funky, ancient rock formations that make the lagoon so unique.

5. Eat Your Way Through Local Cafes and Tacos

Bacalar is seriously one of my favorite places in Quintana Roo to eat. It’s like the food scene is its own kind of magic. One of my all-time faves is Mr. Taco. Not only are their tacos some of the best I’ve had in Mexico, but they’re also super affordable—like 20 pesos a pop! I’m all about their vegetarian options, which are just as delicious as anything with meat.

If you’re a fan of chilaquiles (like I am—seriously, they’re my favorite breakfast ever), then you have to check out Picaflor in Bacalar. Their chilaquiles are out of this world, and I’m not exaggerating. I still think about them sometimes.

And if you want something that’ll make your taste buds dance, get the limey aguachiles at Hijos del Cocho. It’s the perfect combo of zesty and refreshing, definitely a must-try.

There are so many great places to eat in Bacalar, and a lot of them have options for vegans and vegetarians, so you’ll be set no matter your diet. These three are my top picks, but if you want the full rundown of where to eat, check out my list of must-try spots in Bacalar.

6. Explore the San Felipe Fort + the Pirate Museum

Okay, full transparency—I personally found Fort San Felipe and the Pirate Museum to be a little underwhelming. It’s small, and there’s not a ton to it, so if you’re looking to skip something on your trip, this could be it. Unless, of course, you’re really into history.

The fort was built in the 1700s to defend Bacalar from pirate attacks originating from the Caribbean Sea (yep, pirates were a thing here!), and today it’s home to a small museum that explains the town’s history and its role in the region’s colonial past. But honestly, it’s not as epic as it sounds.

It’s located right near the corner of downtown Bacalar, so you’ll probably walk past it a few times if you’re heading from the lagoon to the town square. It’s worth a quick stop if you’re in the area, but don’t feel like you have to dedicate a whole bunch of time to it.

7. Do a Sunrise Yoga Session

Sunrise in Bacalar is something else. Watching the sun come up over the water while doing yoga? It’s the best way to start your day, hands down. And even if you’re not a yoga expert (or you’ve never done it before), I still say go for it. It’s so peaceful and sets such a good vibe for the day. And the pleasant temperatures in the early morning make it an ideal time for a yoga session.

There are a few places around town offering sunrise yoga. I did a session at Yak Lake House, which has classes right on the waters edge, giving you amazing views of the lagoon. They don’t offer it every day, so make sure to check ahead. If you’re staying there, you’re in luck because you can literally roll out of bed and hop right into class. I wasn’t staying there, so I woke up at 5 AM to walk over. Totally worth it for those views.

If Yak Lake House isn’t your vibe, you can also check out Mizu Yoga or Laguna Yoga Bacalar for a nice flow. Mizu has daily classes right on the lagoon, and Laguna Yoga does a mix of sunrise Vinyasa and even SUP yoga for a fun twist. Both places are perfect if you want to connect with the water and nature while getting in a good stretch.

8. Spend a Day at a Bacalar Beach Club (No Tulum Prices Here)

Okay, so Bacalar might not have those classic sandy beaches, but trust me, there are some pretty awesome beach clubs to check out. Oliver and I stumbled upon Blu Beach Club when we found out Cocolitos was closed, and honestly, I’m so glad it worked out that way. We ended up enjoying it way more than Cocolitos!

Blu Beach Club has a really relaxed vibe. They only let a certain number of people in, so it never feels overcrowded. You can kick back on the grass or grab one of their loungers—either way, you’re set. There’s a beautiful deck out over the lagoon, and with drinks, food, and perfect views, it’s the ideal spot to just chill. We spent the whole afternoon there, soaking in the good vibes.

The day pass is 500 pesos, but you get 250 pesos to spend on food and drinks, so it’s basically half off your tab. It’s open from 11 AM to 7 PM, but they’re closed on Mondays, so keep that in mind. If you’re looking for a relaxing spot to hang out without breaking the bank (looking at you, Tulum), Blu is where it’s at.

For other beach club options, Bacalar Beach Club is another one I’ve heard great things about, and Bertilla Lagoon & Beach Club looks pretty fantastic as well. I haven’t been to either yet, but they’re definitely on my list for next time.

9. Chill at the Yak Lake House

Whether it’s morning, afternoon, or night, Yak Lake House always has the vibes. I swear, this place might be one of the best hostels in Mexico. It has a slightly upscale feel, with an outdoor bar and deck area that overlooks the lagoon. They’re always hosting events, so there’s never a dull moment. You can rent a kayak, hop on a boat tour, or just kick back in a lounger, sipping a drink from their onsite restaurant while soaking up some sun.

Oliver and I spent a few afternoons here, sipping micheladas (me) and Coronas (him) while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere. We even took a dip in the lagoon to cool off. And, bonus—when we were there, they had an epic Halloween party with lights, face painting, and a techno DJ. It was so much fun and a nice change of pace from all the reggaeton you tend to hear around here. If you’re looking for a spot to chill or meet people, Yak is the place to be.

10. Catch Sunset at the Pier or La Playita

Okay, so Bacalar isn’t the place for those postcard sunsets where the sun sinks right into the ocean, but trust me, the sunsets here are still magical. The sun sets behind the town, so you’ll catch glimpses of it peeking out as you stroll the streets or if you’re on the water, which makes it even more special.

There is only a handful of places to watch the sunset but one of the best spots to enjoy it is from the pier or any place along the water. I love chilling at La Playita—it’s right on the lagoon, and while it’s not a direct sunset view, the way the water changes color as the sun starts to dip is mesmerizing. If you’re staying at a hotel with a rooftop or a higher vantage point, those are great places to get a full view of the sky lighting up in those gorgeous colors.

Even though Bacalar doesn’t have tons of rooftop bars (unless you’re at a hotel with one), the vibe by the water at sunset is perfect for unwinding and soaking it all in.

11. Rent a Bike and Explore the Town

Bacalar is a small town that’s super easy to navigate on foot, but if you’re in the mood to cover more ground, renting a bike is a great way to explore. The town’s got this simple, square layout, so you can literally walk from one end to the other in about 20 minutes—unless you’re heading out toward the lagoon or exploring a bit further.

But what really makes biking fun is that Bacalar’s got these charming side streets, colorful murals, and cute shops waiting to be discovered. It’s perfect for those of us who enjoy an unplanned wander, hopping from one cool spot to the next.

You can find bikes to rent around town for a pretty decent price, and once you’re cruising, you’ll be able to see all those little nooks and crannies that might be easy to miss on foot. I love biking around early in the morning before it gets too hot—it’s such a relaxing way to see the town from a different perspective.

Make sure to stop at Yerbabuena for one of the best coffees or smoothies in the city!

12. Take a Day Trip to Cenote Azul or Chacchoben Ruins

Quintana Roo is famous for its stunning cenotes and ancient ruins, and lucky for you, Bacalar is in the perfect spot to explore both! If you’ve got a little more time and want to get out of town for a day, these two day trips are great options.

Cenote Azul is about a 20-minute drive from Bacalar, and it’s everything you want in a cenote—clear, turquoise water, a peaceful vibe, and space to swim, float, and just relax. It’s pretty low-key compared to some of the more touristy spots, so you won’t feel overcrowded.

If you’re more into history, the Chacchoben Ruins are about a 45-minute drive away. These Mayan ruins are set in a lush jungle and aren’t as packed as places like Tulum or Coba, which makes it an awesome option if you’re looking for a more serene experience. As one of the nearby archeological sites, you can take a guided tour to learn about the site’s significance or just explore on your own if you’re feeling adventurous.

Both spots are perfect for breaking up your time in Bacalar and diving deeper into the natural beauty and history of the Yucatán Peninsula.

💡 Bonus Travel Tips for Visiting Bacalar

Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your Bacalar Mexico trip:

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Bacalar is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The weather is sunny and warm, perfect for lagoon activities and exploring the town. Avoid the rainy season (May to October), as the humidity can be intense, and downpours are more frequent.

Getting There

Bacalar is easy to get to! The nearest airport is Chetumal International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive away. From there, you can grab a taxi or shuttle to Bacalar.

Alternatively, the closest major airport is Cancun International Airport, approximately four hours away by car. From Cancun, you can rent a car, take a shuttle, or use bus services to reach Bacalar. Buses run regularly from Tulum (around 3.5 hours) and Cancún (about 4.5 hours). ADO is the main bus company, and the buses are comfortable and affordable. Just make sure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons!

Where to Stay

Bacalar has a mix of accommodations, from affordable hostels to upscale boutique hotels. If you’re looking for something with a laid-back vibe and close to the lagoon, the Yak Lake House is a top pick. For a more tranquil, mid-range stay, try Casa Cactus. And if you’re in the mood for luxury, check out Our Habitas (it’s so freaking gorgeous!)

FAQ: Things to Do in Bacalar Quintana Roo Mexico

1. What are some free things to do in Bacalar?

Swimming in the Lagoon is free. There are a few public boardwalks you can hang out on. Additionally you can walk around town, check out the murals, and enjoy the laid back vibes

2. What to do in Bacalar when it rains?

When it rains you can visit the Fort San Felipe and Pirate Museum, enjoy local food at cozy cafés, or take a yoga class to stay dry and relaxed.

3. What are the best things to do in Bacalar at night?

Bacalar has a few things you can do at night I recommend catching the sunset at La Playita, and then going to enjoy drinks at The Yak Lake House or in Bacalar Centro at the Ice Cream Bar. Although the city is small, it has a pretty decent night life.

4. What are the best Bacalar restaurants?

My personal favorite restaurants in Bacalar are Mr. Taco for amazing tacos, Picaflor for killer chilaquiles, and Hijos del Cocho for fresh seafood and limey aguachiles.

5. What are the top things to do in Bacalar Lagoon?

Sail the lagoon on a boat trip to visit cenotes and islands, rent a kayak or paddleboard to expore lake Bacalar, or float along at Los Rápidos are the perfect things to add to your Bacalar itinerary.

Final Thoughts on Bacalar: A Magical Getaway

Bacalar is truly a hidden gem in Mexico. From its stunning freshwater lagoon to the laid-back charm of this magical town, it offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re cruising the shockingly turquoise waters of the lagoon, enjoying a chilled afternoon at a beach club, or just soaking in the sunset, Bacalar has a way of capturing your heart.

Each time I visit, I fall more in love with its peaceful vibe and natural beauty. It’s one of those places where time slows down, and you can really take in the moment. So if you’re looking for a serene escape with a touch of adventure, Bacalar should definitely be at the top of your list.

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