Things to Do in Bacalar: Insider Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots like Playa del Carmen or Tulum, Bacalar should be at the top of your list. This small lakeside town is home to the stunning Lagoon of Seven Colors, a massive freshwater paradise with shades of blue so vibrant they rival the Maldives. For families seeking a mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, Bacalar is a hidden gem. Here’s how we made the most of our day trip to this magical destination with our things to do in Bacalar.

Why We Chose Bacalar

During our stay in Akumal, we were eager to explore beyond the typical beach destinations of the Riviera Maya. We wanted a place that felt less commercial and more authentic, a destination where we could slow down and truly connect with nature. Bacalar, located just a three-hour drive south of Akumal, turned out to be the perfect getaway.

Why Bacalar Stood Out

One of the main reasons we chose Bacalar was its laid-back, authentic vibe. Unlike the bustling, resort-heavy areas of Playa del Carmen or Tulum, Bacalar has preserved its charm and tranquility. It feels like stepping back in time, far away from crowded beaches and high-rise hotels.

The Lagoon of Seven Colors was the real showstopper for us. This massive freshwater lagoon is famous for its stunning hues of turquoise, deep blue, and vibrant green, caused by varying depths and mineral-rich waters. The lagoon stretches over 42 kilometers (26 miles), making it a haven for families who love swimming, paddle boarding, or simply relaxing by the water. Its calm waters and soft limestone floor make it especially kid-friendly.

Planning the Trip

We planned our day trip carefully to make the most of our visit. Leaving Akumal at 6:30 AM, we arrived in Bacalar by mid-morning, which turned out to be a fantastic decision. The lagoon is most peaceful during the early hours, and we had the chance to enjoy its beauty before the crowds arrived. By noon, more visitors started to appear, but the serene vibe of Bacalar never felt chaotic.

We visited in October, during the low season. This worked to our advantage as we avoided heavy rains, which can be unpredictable in this region. If you’re planning a trip, check the weather forecast a day or two in advance, as it can change quickly. However, keep in mind that forecasts beyond two days are often unreliable.

What Families Will Love About Bacalar

1. Safe and Spacious Lagoon: The lagoon’s calm, freshwater environment is perfect for kids. Unlike the ocean, there are no waves to worry about, and many areas have shallow sections where little ones can safely play.

2. Variety of Activities: Whether it’s taking a boat tour, kayaking, or simply relaxing in a hammock, there’s something for everyone in the family.

3. Quiet Atmosphere: Bacalar is ideal for families looking to avoid the noise and busyness of more touristy destinations. It’s the kind of place where you can unwind and recharge.

Pro Tips for Visiting Bacalar

• Timing Is Key: Arrive early to enjoy the tranquility of the lagoon and beat the midday crowds.

• Low Season Perks: October and November are great months to visit for fewer tourists, though be prepared for potential rain showers.

• Pack Smart: Bring plenty of snacks, water, and supplies for the day. Bacalar has local shops, but packing your own essentials can save time and money.

Balneario Ejidal Mágico Bacalar

Our first destination in Bacalar was Balneario Ejidal Mágico Bacalar, a family-friendly park that offers a perfect introduction to the Lagoon of Seven Colors. Not only is this spot budget-friendly, but it’s also tailored for families with young children, making it one of the easiest places to relax and enjoy the lagoon’s stunning waters.

Admission and Amenities

For just 75 pesos per adult (kids under 5 are free), you get access to clean, well-maintained facilities and the serene lagoon. This park is designed with families in mind, offering plenty of shaded seating, clean bathrooms, and convenient rentals. There’s even a snack bar if you need refreshments, though bringing your own food and drinks is a smart move for picky eaters or those traveling on a budget.

Kid-Friendly Highlights

Water Swings: These were an instant hit with our kids! Swinging over the calm lagoon waters not only provided endless entertainment but also made for some memorable photos.

Hammocks: Scattered throughout the park, hammocks are the perfect spot for parents to relax while keeping an eye on the little ones.

Safe Swimming Area: The lagoon here is roped off to create a shallow, safe swimming area, with a depth of around 1.5 meters. This made it ideal for our 4-year-old, who’s still learning to swim. If your child isn’t confident in the water, life jackets are available for rent at the park, adding extra peace of mind.

Why It’s Perfect for Families

We arrived at 10:00 AM, and for the first couple of hours, we practically had the place to ourselves. By 12:00 PM, more families started arriving, but it never felt crowded. The park’s spacious layout and organized amenities ensure that even on busier days, it remains a relaxing spot for visitors of all ages.

One of the standout features of the lagoon at Balneario Ejidal is its smooth limestone and mineral ground. Unlike cenotes or ocean beaches where you might encounter slimy rocks, the lagoon’s floor is firm and comfortable to walk on. This made it easy for our kids to move around without slipping. Plus, since it’s freshwater, there’s no need to worry about saltwater irritating sensitive eyes or skin—a big win for families with young kids.

Pro Tips for Visiting Balneario Ejidal

Timing Is Key:Arrive early (around 9:30 or 10:00 AM) to enjoy the park before it gets busier. Morning hours are also cooler and more comfortable for kids.Pack Snacks and Drinks:While there are food options on-site, bringing your own snacks can save money and ensure you have kid-approved favorites.Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen:Protecting your family’s skin is important, and Bacalar is a freshwater lagoon, so it’s essential to use reef-safe sunscreen to help preserve the ecosystem.Cash Only:Many smaller parks and attractions in Bacalar, including Balneario Ejidal, operate on a cash-only basis, so be sure to bring enough pesos.

Lagoon of the Seven Colors

Exploring Bacalar Lagoon on a Boat Tour

After a relaxing morning at Balneario Ejidal Mágico Bacalar, we were eager to explore more of the lagoon, so we opted for a pontoon boat tour. One of the great things about Bacalar is how easy it is to find boat tours—nearly every waterfront property offers them, and there are plenty of options to choose from.

We paid 400 pesos per adult, and the best part? Our kids went free! This affordable price covered a 2.5-hour tour that took us to several of Bacalar’s most stunning cenotes, scenic stops, and historical sites. The boat tour turned out to be the highlight of our day, offering a mix of relaxation, education, and adventure.

What to Expect on a Boat Tour

Boat tours in Bacalar are well-organized and cater to families, making them an excellent choice for exploring the lagoon. Here’s what you can expect:

• Type of Boats: Most tours use pontoon boats, which are spacious, shaded, and perfect for families.

• Tour Duration: Standard tours last between 2 to 3 hours, providing enough time to visit the key spots without feeling rushed.

• What’s Included: Most tours include stops at multiple cenotes, a chance to swim, and scenic cruising around the lagoon. You can bring your own snacks and drinks as well, so pack accordingly.

Boat Tour Highlights

The boat tour took us to some of the lagoon’s most iconic locations. Each stop offered something unique, making the experience unforgettable.

Cenote Negro (Black Cenote)

• Known locally as Cenote de la Bruja (Witch’s Cenote), this cenote is about 90 meters deep and gets its name from the dark, almost black water.

• What Makes It Special: The stark contrast between the cenote’s deep, dark water and the bright blues of the surrounding lagoon is stunning. While swimming isn’t allowed here due to strong undercurrents, it’s a fascinating sight from the boat.

Cenote Esmeralda

• This cenote features a cone-shaped formation and vibrant turquoise hues. The way the water changes color depending on the depth is mesmerizing.

• Scenic Stop: While we didn’t swim here, the crystal-clear water made it a picture-perfect spot to admire from the boat.

Cenote Cocalitos

• Famous for its stromatolites, ancient rock-like structures formed by microorganisms, this cenote is a must-visit. These living fossils are millions of years old and play a crucial role in maintaining the lagoon’s ecosystem.

• Family-Friendly Swimming: The shallow waters (around 1 meter deep) were ideal for our kids. They loved splashing around while we enjoyed the peaceful surroundings. Remember not to touch the stromatolites, as they are fragile and protected.

Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island)

• A small island teeming with birdlife, this is a haven for nature lovers and bird-watchers.

• Wildlife Spotting: While we didn’t get off the boat, we spotted several species of birds, including herons and cormorants. The serene atmosphere here added a touch of tranquility to the tour.

El Canal de los Piratas (Pirates Canal)

• This canal, once used by pirates to raid local settlements, is rich in history.

• Shallow Waters: The water here is just 1 meter deep, making it perfect for swimming. The kids loved hearing stories about pirates while playing in the warm, crystal-clear water. The soft, sandy bottom was a hit with everyone, and it was the perfect way to wrap up the tour.

Boat Dock

Practical Tips for Families Traveling to Bacalar

To make your trip smooth and enjoyable, here are some tips we learned along the way:

1. Timing: Leave early! We left Akumal at 6:30 AM, which gave us plenty of time to enjoy the lagoon before it got too crowded or hot.

2. Parking: At Balneario Ejidal, parking is convenient and costs just 30 pesos.

3. Supplies: Pack your own snacks, water, and drinks. While there are vendors selling floats and snacks, bringing your own saves time and money.

4. Sun Protection: The sun can be intense, so bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and water shoes for everyone.

5. Life Jackets: Available for rent at the park and on boat tours, these are essential for younger kids who aren’t strong swimmers.

Why Bacalar is a Must-Visit for Families

Bacalar is everything we hoped for and more—peaceful, scenic, and full of activities that kept the whole family happy. From the safe swimming areas at Balneario Ejidal to the fascinating boat tour stops like Pirate’s Canal and Cenote Cocalitos, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re staying in Akumal or anywhere along the Riviera Maya, we highly recommend making the trip to Bacalar. It’s a day filled with fun, learning, and relaxation that your family will cherish forever. The kids are already asking when we can go back, and honestly, we can’t wait to return ourselves!

More on the Blog:

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What are the best things to do in Riviera Maya with kids?