Why Bacalar Is My Favorite Wellness Escape in Mexico

The first thing I tell every traveler is this: don't come to Bacalar expecting a packed itinerary. The lagoon is the destination. This is a place to slow down, disconnect from your routine, and let nature set the pace. Unlike many beach towns in Mexico, you won't find large hotel chains, beach clubs on every corner, or a busy nightlife scene.

Bacalar has managed to preserve its authentic charm, with locally owned hotels, independent restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels refreshingly untouched. I highly recommend renting a car or a scooter so you can easily explore different areas of the lagoon and discover your own favorite spots.

Of course, there are a few experiences I consider essential. Watching the sunrise from a paddleboard or kayak is one of them. The lagoon is incredibly calm in the early morning, and seeing the colors slowly come to life is unforgettable.

Sunrise at the lagoon

If you're traveling with friends or family, chartering a private boat is the best way to experience Bacalar. Couples may prefer a smaller sailboat or catamaran for a more intimate afternoon on the water.

Most lagoon tours include Bird Island, the famous Pirate's Channel, Cenote La Bruja, and Los Rápidos, where the crystal-clear current gently carries you through one of the most beautiful sections of the lagoon.

Bacalar colors

Food & drink

One of the things I love most about Bacalar is its food scene. Don't leave without trying  Taco Loco, their fish and shrimp tacos are among my favorites anywhere in Mexico, and the queso relleno taco is a must-order.

For a more elevated dinner, I always recommend Nixtamal Cocina a Fuego y Ceniza, where Chef Rodrigo Ovidio celebrates ancestral Mexican cooking using wood-fired grills and a traditional clay stove. 

Bacalar landscape

Relaxation & exploration

One of my favorite travel tips is to mix public and boutique lagoon access.

If you're not staying at Casa Bakal, treat yourself to a day pass and spend a slow afternoon swimming and relaxing by the water. I also love Carmelita Lagoon Club, a newer spot tucked away in a quieter residential area that offers a peaceful atmosphere away from the busier parts of town.

Casa Bakal hotel and beach club, Bacalar

If wellness is part of your trip, book a yoga class or sound healing session at Our Habitas Bacalar. Their programming focuses on mindfulness, nature, and holistic experiences. 

And if all you want is a swim, head to Parque Ecológico Bacalar, for around 20 pesos, it's one of the most affordable and beautiful ways to enjoy the lagoon like a local.

Finally, don't rush through the town itself. Visit the Fort San Felipe Museum to learn about Bacalar's fascinating pirate history, then spend the evening wandering through the main square, where locals gather for street food, music, and simple pleasures. Don't leave without trying a freshly made marquesita, one of the Yucatán Peninsula's most beloved desserts.

Personal trip with my girlfriends!

Shopping in town!

• Getting there: Bacalar is roughly 3 hours by car from Tulum, and about 25–30 minutes from Chetumal International Airport (the closest airport, though it has limited flight options). Most international travelers fly into Cancún and either drive down (about 4 hours) or connect through Chetumal.

• It’s still low-key—keep it that way: Bacalar’s charm is its lack of overdevelopment. Encourage clients to support local, small-scale operators (boat guides, restaurants, artisans) rather than mass-market tour companies.

• Pair it with Tulum or Mahahual: Since it’s only 3 hours from Tulum and about an hour from the Costa Maya/Mahahual coast, Bacalar works beautifully as a 3–4 night add-on to a longer Riviera Maya itinerary. The contrast between beach and lagoon makes for a richer trip.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Bacalar page.