Day trip from:

Bacalar Lagoon

Lagoon of Seven Colors with ancient stromatolites—peaceful freshwater alternative to Caribbean beaches

Overnight recommended (2+ nights ideal)

350 MXN(Boat tour per person for 2.5-hour group tour (~$20). Public lagoon access free at town dock. Private clubs/restaurants charge entry ($5-15) but offer amenities.)

Dry season (November-May) for clearest water and best weather. Avoid rainy season afternoons (June-October) when thunderstorms are common. Weekdays less crowded than weekends.

Overview

Bacalar's freshwater lagoon displays seven distinct shades of turquoise, earning it the name "Laguna de los Siete Colores" (Lagoon of Seven Colors). The protected waters feature stromatolites—ancient living fossils dating back 3.5 billion years—and a peaceful atmosphere without jet skis or the crowds of more developed beach destinations. **Distance reality check:** At 280 km (3.5 hours) from Playa del Carmen, Bacalar makes a better overnight trip than day trip due to distance. The journey via ADO bus or rental car follows Highway 307 through Tulum and Felipe Carrillo Puerto. **Why go:** The lagoon offers a tranquil, freshwater alternative to Caribbean beaches—no sargassum, no salt, no waves. Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours through the calm turquoise waters. The town of Bacalar itself has a relaxed, less touristy vibe with growing expat community. Living Maya communities concentrate in this western Bacalar region.

Highlights

Seven distinct shades of turquoise water—freshwater, no sargassum

Stromatolites—ancient living fossils dating back 3.5 billion years (protected area)

Boat tours with swimming stops at Pirates Channel and Cenote Negro (~350 MXN)

Cenote Azul de Bacalar—large open-air cenote 2 km south of town

Fort San Felipe Bacalar—18th-century Spanish fort with museum and lagoon views

Kayak and paddleboard rentals along the waterfront

Quieter, less touristy alternative to Riviera Maya beaches

Growing wellness and retreat scene

Living Maya communities in the surrounding region

Practical Information

Suggested Duration

Overnight recommended (2+ nights ideal)

Entrance Fee

350 MXN

Boat tour per person for 2.5-hour group tour (~$20). Public lagoon access free at town dock. Private clubs/restaurants charge entry ($5-15) but offer amenities.

Best Time to Visit

Dry season (November-May) for clearest water and best weather. Avoid rainy season afternoons (June-October) when thunderstorms are common. Weekdays less crowded than weekends.

How to Get There

Car/RentalBus

Location

Open in Google Maps

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Plan Your Base

Explore the destinations where you can make this a day trip.

Playa del Carmen Tulum