10 Best Things to Do and See in Bacalar
Exploring Bacalar on foot is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere, connect its landmark places and discover its neighbourhoods at a more natural pace.
In this guide, you will find the attractions not to miss when planning a walking route in Bacalar, with simple reference points.
To go further, you can also enjoy a private guided tour in Bacalar. It is a smoother way to connect places, understand details you might miss on your own and enjoy a more human, personal discovery adapted to your trip.
1. Fuerte de San Felipe de Bacalar
Fuerte de San Felipe de Bacalar is an iconic site overlooking the turquoise waters of Bacalar Lagoon in southern Mexico. A visit here reveals an old fortress surrounded by ramparts, exhibition spaces dedicated to local history, and beautiful viewpoints over the lagoon and its surroundings. The site offers a pleasant walk through heritage, tropical scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for understanding the strategic and cultural importance of Bacalar while enjoying a spectacular setting.
2. Cenote Cocalitos Beach Resort
Located in Bacalar, on the shores of the famous turquoise lagoon, Cenote Cocalitos Beach Resort is a popular stop for enjoying a peaceful natural setting and easy access to the water. Visitors will find a developed beach, relaxing areas, and a setting typical of the region, where the blue and green tones of the lagoon create a remarkable backdrop. It is a great place to swim, unwind, and admire the scenery, while enjoying the calm atmosphere that gives Bacalar its charm.
3. Pirates’ Canal
The Pirate Canal, in Bacalar, is a famous waterway that connects several areas of the lagoon and draws visitors with its turquoise colors and peaceful atmosphere. It is an ideal spot for swimming, kayaking, or taking a boat ride, with shores lined by tropical vegetation. The area is appreciated for its crystal-clear water and open landscapes, which offer beautiful views of Bacalar Lagoon. It is a must-see stop to enjoy the nature and tranquility of the region.
4. Seven Colors Lagoon
The Lagoon of Seven Colors in Bacalar, in southeastern Mexico, is a vast freshwater lagoon famous for its shades of blue, which change depending on the depth, the light and the sandy bottom. This natural site invites visitors to swim, kayak and admire a peaceful landscape lined with tropical vegetation. You will also find crystal-clear waters, shallow areas ideal for relaxing and a calm atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of major beach resorts. It is a must-see stop to enjoy the natural beauty of Bacalar.
5. Municipal Spa El Aserradero
The Balneario Municipal El Aserradero in Bacalar is a popular swimming spot for enjoying the calm waters and tropical scenery of the region. Located on the edge of the famous lagoon, it offers a simple, welcoming setting to relax, swim, or spend time with family. Visitors usually find access points to the water, areas to rest, and the peaceful atmosphere typical of Bacalar. It is a pleasant stop to discover the lagoon from a more local perspective and enjoy the sun in a preserved natural setting.
6. Zócalo Park
Bacalar’s Zócalo Park is a central public space where you can experience the peaceful atmosphere of this Quintana Roo town. Surrounded by greenery and pleasant pathways, it offers a relaxing spot appreciated by both locals and visitors. People come here to stroll, rest in the shade, observe local life, and enjoy a welcoming setting in the heart of Bacalar. Its location also makes it a practical starting point for exploring the area and easily reaching the town’s other attractions.
7. Ecopark Bacalar
Ecoparque Bacalar is a pleasant natural park where you can discover tropical vegetation and enjoy a peaceful setting near the famous Bacalar Lagoon. Visitors come here to stroll, observe the local nature, and take a break away from the bustle in a simple, green environment. Depending on the facilities available, the site may offer walking paths, relaxation areas, and views over the region’s turquoise waters. It is an ideal stop to enjoy the natural charm of Bacalar in complete tranquility.
8. Bacalar Letters
The Bacalar Letters are an iconic photo spot in Bacalar, Mexico, where visitors can see the large colorful letters of the city’s name set in a pleasant setting, often enjoyed for a quick stop and a few memorable photos. Located near the lagoon, this place attracts travelers who want to capture their visit and enjoy a relaxed, simple, and very local atmosphere. It is an easy stop to include during a walk through Bacalar, especially to admire the scenery and experience the vibe of this popular destination in the region.
9. Black Cenote
The Cenote Negro, in Bacalar, is a freshwater cenote known for its depth and dark color, which contrasts with the turquoise shades of the nearby lagoon. This natural site offers a peaceful setting where visitors can admire a circular sinkhole lined with tropical vegetation and observe the changing reflections on the water depending on the light. Popular for swimming and snorkeling, it also attracts travelers curious about the karst landscapes typical of the region. It is an ideal stop to discover the natural beauty of Quintana Roo.
10. Bird Island
Isla de los Pájaros is a small island in Bacalar Lagoon where nature takes center stage. Its appeal comes from its setting amid calm waters and its role as a refuge for birds, offering a resting place in a preserved lake environment. The site is a simple but iconic Bacalar scene, with clear water, vegetation, and discreet wildlife. It is appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and its strong connection to the lagoon landscape.
Antony M
During my travels, I looked for guides who spoke my language. This search turned out to be long and tedious. That is why I created MYTOGU (My Tourist Guide): a matching site between tourists and professional tourist guides.
