Bacalar, often referred to as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” is a beautiful destination in Mexico known for its stunning turquoise waters. The lagoon is the 2nd largest lagoon in Mexico, and it’s absolutely breathtaking. Here are seven affordable or free things to do in Bacalar:
1. FREE LAGOON ACTIVITIES!
Enjoy the crystal-clear (fresh!) waters of Bacalar Lagoon. Pack a picnic and relax & swim at the lagoon. Although much of the waterfront has been privatised by businesses, there are still areas along the shore that are free to access. Check out this post to see where the free & cheap access points to Bacalar Lagoon are!
2. CHECK OUT FORT SAN FELIPE BACALAR
While there’s a small entrance fee of 110 pesos per person ($6 USD), Fort San Felipe offers amazing views of the lagoon. The history of this fort dates back to the late 17th century, when it was commissioned to act as a line of defence against pirates in the area. In 1983 it was converted into a museum, and gives good insight into the Mayan communities that used to live here, as well as the Spanish conquistadors.
3. PEOPLE WATCH IN CENTRAL PARK (PARQUE CENTRAL)
Right by the Fort San Felipe is the beautiful Central Park. It’s a peaceful spot to relax, people-watch, or have a snack. Tons of street vendors sell snacks, coconuts, or juices to cool off on a hot day!
4. COOL OFF IN CENOTE AZUL
Cenote Azul is a large cenote with vibrant blue waters. The entrance fee is 140 MXN ($8 USD) for adults and 80 MXN pesos for children ages 4 to 8. The cenote is quite deep, with the central sinkhole area reaching depths of over 90 meters (about 295 feet). There are many ways you can spend the day at Cenote Azul, including swimming, picnicking, snorkelling, and sunbathing.
5. GET A HAPPY HOUR MARGARITA DEAL
Stroll through the charming downtown of Bacalar! Explore the local markets, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, and grab yourself a delicious margarita with some amazing 2 for 1 happy hour specials!
6. CHECK OUT LOS RAPIDOS PARK
Los Rapidos is a section of the Bacalar Lagoon that is lined with stromatolites and mangroves, forming narrow canal where the current becomes a little stronger and the color of the water unbelievably beautiful. Los Rapidos Park offers walking trails along the lagoon’s edge, and allows for swimming & kayaking in the beautiful waters. Entrance to Los Rapidos costs 200 MXN ($11 USD) per person, and there is a restaurant, bar, and chairs inside to relax and enjoy the day.
To find out everything you need to know about a trip to Los Rapidos, click here.
7. DO A BOAT TOUR
Although a bit more pricy than the other options, the best way to explore the beauty of Bacalar Lagoon is on a boat tour. We booked this tour from Casa China and it was fantastic! Not only did we get to experience the beauty of “The Lagoon of Seven Colours”, we also learn about Bacalar’s pirate history and explored stunning cenotes with our guide. The tour cost included 3 beers per person, cold waters and juices, as well as fresh fruits to enjoy on the boat. Additionally, anybody that books a boat trip with Casa China gets free use of their beach club as well as free kayak rentals for the rest of the day!
We opted to splurge for the sailboat experience, but they also offer this pontoon boat experience, which is cheaper.
To read everything you need to know about booking a boat tour of the stunning lagoon, check out this post!
To check out our full Bacalar gallery, click here!