If you’re heading to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Bacalar should definitely be on your list of must-visit places. It might not be as popular as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, or Tulum, which are closer to the Cancun airport, but making the trip down to Lake Bacalar is totally worth it.
This charming little town may not be on the ocean, but it sits right on the stunning Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the lagoon of seven colors. And honestly, it might just beat the ocean in my book!
I’ve visited Bacalar many times, and I absolutely love its cute cobblestone streets and adorable little restaurants. But what keeps drawing me back is the lagoon itself. I just got back from Bacalar recently, and I can’t wait to share my guide on where to stay in Bacalar, featuring the best hotels and areas for your next Mexican adventure.
Where to Stay in Bacalar – Best Bacalar Hotels
($$$) Hotel CasaBakal
My top hotel choice at the Bacalar Lagoon is the 5-Star Hotel CasaBakal (A pie de laguna). It’s one of the best Bacalar hotels, offering beautifully designed private rooms with a private terrace, an outdoor swimming pool, and a fantastic hotel restaurant serving delicious food. The hotel also has private access to the lagoon, which is convenient for joining boat tours directly from the property.
($$) Agam Hotel
My favorite little boutique hotel that doesn’t break the bank is Hotel Sun Ha Bacalar. It’s located close to the city center, within walking distance of the Bacalar Lagoon and the town square. It’s beautifully designed in a modern Mexican style, with a great outdoor swimming pool area and a fantastic hotel restaurant on site, making it one of the best budget hotels in Bacalar.
($) Hotel Sun Ha Bacalar
If you’re on a budget or traveling with a larger group, I can highly recommend Rialto Suites Fremantle. Their apartments are located right in the Fremantle city centre and are perfect for a long-term stay with a bigger group. They come with a full kitchen and can accommodate up to six people.
Table of Contents
Where to stay in Bacalar – Best Areas
Bacalar is a small town, so there aren’t many different areas to recommend; it’s pretty straightforward where you should stay when visiting Bacalar.
If it’s your first time here, I suggest staying at the Bacalar Lagoon front. Getting those lagoon views from your room is definitely worth it.
The city center is ideal for budget travelers, offering many cheap eats, hostels, and smaller boutique hotels.
Mario Villanueva Madrid is a bit north of the city center and perfect for families who prefer not to be in the midst of all the action.
Lastly, there are plenty of amazing resort hotels outside Bacalar town that are so incredible, I’ll definitely have to mention those as well.
Where to Stay in Bacalar for the First Time: Bacalar Lagoon Front
I absolutely love staying right on Bacalar Lagoon (Laguna Bacalar) because, honestly, the lagoon is the star of the show when you’re visiting Bacalar, so why not be right on the main stage?
If you’re thinking about waterfront accommodations, you can choose whether to stay close to or within the city center. This way, it’s just a short walk to the main square and all the fantastic hotels, bars, and taco spots in town.
If you’re looking for something a bit quieter and more secluded, there are plenty of hotels along the lagoon if you drive south out of town, all the way to the Blu Beach Club.
One of my all-time favorite restaurants is La Playita, located right on the lagoon. It’s a beautiful spot, especially at sunset. Be sure to try the ceviche when you’re there!
Things to Do in Bacalar Lagoon
Let me share my absolute favorite thing to do in Bacalar Lagoon—taking one of those amazing boat trips to see the seven colors of the water. Seriously, it’s a must-do when you’re in Bacalar! (Bacalar Sail Boat Trip)
And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can also rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore on your own. It’s such a fun way to explore the lagoon at your own pace.
If you’re up for something a bit different but super cool, try a yoga class on the lagoon. There are a few spots to choose from, but the Yak Lake House offers a fantastic sunrise yoga session on their gorgeous private dock. Plus, they have SUP Yoga where you’ll be doing yoga on a paddleboard right on the lake, which is so much fun.
Best Hotels to Stay in Bacalar Lagoon
Hotel CasaBakal
Right on the lagoon front with amazing views of different shades of blue is Hotel CasaBakal. They offer private rooms with beautiful views, lounge chairs, an outdoor swimming pool, and a private hotel restaurant. You can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and boat tours that pick you up from the private jetty.
Click here for more information & bookings
Blue Bird
If you’re looking for the best vibes, then Blue Bird is the place to be. The whole property is surrounded by lush tropical plants and offers a private beach area, swimming pool, and bar. They offer private cabanas/huts right on the waterfront with a hotel restaurant and bar, which is perfect for enjoying dinner and drinks right on the lagoon.
Click here for more information & bookings
Where to Stay in Bacalar on a Budget: Bacalar City Center
If you’re looking for a lively vibe, Bacalar’s city center is the place to be! It’s buzzing with energy, perfect for those of us who love exploring bars, restaurants, and clubs. Around the town square, you’ll find some of Bacalar’s top dining spots, street food stalls, and busy bars. My absolute favorite is Mr. Taco. Seriously, their tacos are unbeatable, and even their veggie options are the best I’ve ever had!
For all you backpackers and budget travelers, the city center has plenty of affordable stays and hostels. It’s the perfect spot to spend some extended time in Bacalar and enjoy the local atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Things to Do in Bacalar City Center
There is quite a bit of sightseeing to do in Bacalar apart from exploring Bacalar Lagoon. In the city center, Fort San Felipe Bacalar is definitely worth a visit. Built in the 18th century to protect the town from pirates, it offers a beautiful view of the lagoon.
Two of my favorite breakfast spots that you should definitely check out are El Manatí Bacalar and Enamora. Both have amazing gardens to sit in and serve really tasty Mexican and international dishes.
Best Hotels to Stay in Bacalar City Center
The Yak Lake House
In my opinion, the best hostel in Bacalar is the Yak Lake House, and honestly, it’s one of the coolest hostels in the area. It’s beautifully designed and, as the name suggests, resembles a lake house with its own dock and deck right on the lagoon. They offer spacious dorm rooms and private rooms. If you’re looking to socialize and meet people, I definitely recommend staying here.
Click here for more information & bookings
Hotel Sur Bacalar
For a more upscale option, Hotel Sur Bacalar is a beautiful boutique hotel located right in the city center. It offers modern rooms with stunning views of the lagoon. Plus, it has its own private outdoor swimming pool with sunbeds and a BBQ area. I really enjoyed their free breakfast every morning; it was perfect to start the day.
Click here for more information & bookings
Where to Stay in Bacalar for Families: Mario Villanueva Madrid
If you’re traveling with your family, I highly recommend staying in the Mario Villanueva Madrid neighborhood. It’s a quiet and safe residential area offering numerous vacation rental options. Renting an entire house or apartment is ideal for families seeking more space and privacy. Plus, it’s just a short walk to the city center and Bacalar Lagoon.
Things to Do in Mario Villanueva Madrid
I recently stayed in Mario Villanueva Madrid, and while it’s more of a residential spot, having a car is a game-changer for day trips from Bacalar. There are some amazing Mayan ruins nearby that you could check out, and Mahahual is a charming little beach town just a short drive away—perfect for a sunny day out.
And if you’re up for it, Playa del Carmen is only a couple of hours’ drive, offering a taste of Mexico’s more touristy side.
Best Hotels to Stay in Mario Villanueva Madrid
Hotel Aires Bacalar
Hotel Aires Bacalar is a fantastic option for families in Mario Villanueva Madrid. It’s by far the most beautiful and comfortable boutique hotel in the area. Their rooms are spacious, they have a stunning rooftop with great views, and one of the best pools that even comes with a hot tub.
Click here for more information & bookings
Where to Stay in Bacalar for Luxury: Outside of Bacalar Town
Bacalar is one of the few gems on the Riviera Maya that hasn’t been swamped by tourists yet. Unlike Tulum and Cancun, which are buzzing with visitors and packed with hotels, Bacalar remains refreshingly untouched. One reason is its distance from the nearest airport, adding a bit of mystery and adventure to getting there.
If you’re craving that big resort vibe or dreaming of a sprawling villa or Airbnb, you’ll want to venture outside Bacalar town. Here, you’ll find more secluded resort-style accommodations with luxurious private rooms and suites, often offering all-inclusive deals. A rental car is super handy when staying at these resorts, or be sure to check if they provide a shuttle service.
Things to Do Outside of Bacalar Town
Of course, there’s plenty to do outside of Bacalar town as well. You can take a boat tour of the lagoon and visit some of the nearby cenotes (sinkholes), which are great for swimming and snorkeling. There are also various eco-parks in the area, such as Cenote Azul and Los Rapidos, where you can go kayaking or tubing on crystal clear waters.
For those interested in history and culture, there are several Mayan ruins within driving distance from Bacalar. Some popular options include Kohunlich, Dzibanche, and Chacchoben.
Best Hotels to Stay Outside of Bacalar
Hotel Rancho Encantado
Located just 10 minutes from Bacalar town, Hotel Rancho Encantado offers a tranquil and luxurious escape. With only a few rooms and private bungalows, this boutique hotel provides an intimate, personalized experience. Each room is uniquely decorated with handcrafted furniture and artwork, adding to its charm. The highlight of the hotel is the hotel restaurant right on the lagoon which is amazing for sunset dinner and drinks.
Click here for more information & bookings
Mia Bacalar Luxury Resort
Mia Bacalar Luxury Resort is actually part of Hotel Rancho Encantado, but they are located just a short walk from each other. This resort offers a variety of rooms and suites, all with stunning views of the lagoon. It also has its own private beach area and water activities such as paddleboarding and kayaking. For those looking for a more upscale experience, Mia Bacalar is the perfect choice.
Click here for more information & bookings
Where to Stay in Bacalar – Frequently Asked Questions
🌟 Is Bacalar Worth Visiting?
Bacalar is definitely one of my favorite little towns in Mexico and absolutely worth visiting. It’s so much fun to explore a place that’s a little less touristy, and it’s a refreshing change to see beautiful beaches (on the lagoon) without a million people. So yes, Bacalar is definitely worth visiting!
🚗 How Do I Get to Bacalar?
The easiest way to get to Bacalar is to drive directly from Cancun Airport, which is about a 4-hour drive. If you’re not driving and don’t have a rental, you can also take the ADO bus, similar to a Greyhound bus, which will take you straight from Cancun Airport to Bacalar. All the buses are well-equipped with comfortable seats and air conditioning, and the journey will cost you around US$25.
🌊 Is Bacalar by the Ocean?
Bacalar is not directly on the ocean, but it is home to a beautiful lagoon that feels like an inland sea. The lagoon has crystal clear water and plenty of activities for visitors, so you’ll have plenty of fun in the water without having to hit the ocean.
🛡️ Do I need Travel Insurance in Mexico?
Yes, it is always a good idea to have travel insurance when you visit Mexico. Accidents and emergencies can happen, and having travel insurance will give you peace of mind knowing that you are covered for any unexpected expenses. Plus, Mexican law requires all drivers to have liability insurance, so if you’re planning on renting a car in Bacalar or exploring the surrounding areas, make sure your policy covers this. Don’t forget travel insurance!
Where to Stay in Bacalar – Final Words
As you can probably tell, Bacalar is one of my absolute favorite spots in Mexico! It’s definitely worth checking out. Whether you’re after luxury or traveling on a budget, Bacalar has a fantastic range of hotels to suit your needs. The town itself is super charming, and there’s just so much to do. From exploring Fort San Felipe to taking a boat tour on the stunning Bacalar Lagoon, you’ll have no trouble finding ways to fill your time here.
I really hope my guide on where to stay in Bacalar has been helpful and inspires you to plan a trip to this beautiful, off-the-beaten-path destination. Happy travels!
