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Want to see the spectacular Bacalar Lagoon in Mexico, but not sure where to stay?
You’ve come to the right place!
Bacalar is a small town along the Lagoon of Seven Colors that is quickly becoming one of the most popular destinations in Mexico’s Yucatan thanks to its serene environment and phenomenal beauty.
I get many questions about this destination, so I decided to write this article to help you find the best hotels in Bacalar for every taste and budget.
If you are wondering about where to stay, you have two main options: downtown or the lagoon. Hotels on the lagoon are more expensive, as they offer views of the water and fun activities like yoga, kayaking and so on, while hotels in downtown are on a budget side.
To find the best deals, check Booking, that has a great selection of places, or Agoda
Best hotels in Bacalar downtown
Downtown Bacalar (aka Pueblo Bacalar) is an excellent place to save money and be close to many stores and restaurants. This part of town is popular with backpackers and budget travelers.
1. Hotel Makaaba Eco Boutique
One of the best sustainable boutique hotels in town, Makaaba is a great stay a few blocks away from downtown, and very close to the lagoon where you can kayak, swim and take a sailboat tour.
Win-win!
Makaaba has a spacious common area with complimentary wi-fi which comes very handy, especially if you work remotely, and a restaurant that prepares meals made with ingredients from the onsite garden like tomatoes, chili peppers and papayas.
Makaaba doesn’t use plastic utensils and cups in its restaurant as part of its sustainable efforts.
➡️ Read: How to get to Los Rapidos, Bacalar
There’s also a bar where you can try Mexican craft beer and mezcal. Breakfast is included in price and consists of muffins, omelettes, fruits and vegetables.
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The pool at Makaaba is filled with filtered underground water to minimize the impact on the environment.
Guests leave great reviews for Hotel Makaaba Eco Boutique. If you are looking for a combination of great prices and comfort, book your stay here.
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2. Hotel Sur Bacalar
A cute hotel with terra-cotta colors, Hotel Sur Bacalar is one of the best hotels in town if you want to spend a few days in town before continuing your travels, and only need basic amenities.
Hotel Sur Bacalar offers a great combination of affordable prices and a quiet atmosphere. It has a swimming pool and spacious rooms with beautiful design that get rave reviews from customers.
It’s also one of the few pet-friendly accommodations in town!
Breakfast is included in the price.
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3. La Kinta Bacalar
La Kinta Bacalar is a basic, no-frills hotel that offers a central location, great prices, friendly staff, and a nice common area where you can work – everything that a busy traveler on the go needs! Staff can help you arrange tours of the lagoon and Mayan ruins.
And, if you have a car rental, there’s a parking space available just outside the hotel.
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4. Casa Eek Balam
Casa Eek Balam is a new hotel that has feee Wi-Fi, shared and private rooms, a shared kitchen and currency exchange for guests.
✅ Read my detailed guide to Los Rapidos Bacalar where you can swim and kayak
Some units include a terrace and/or a balcony with garden or quiet street views. A continental breakfast is served every day. Parking is free.
Sightseeing tours are available nearby. Paid airport shuttle service is also available.
✅ CHECK RATES AT CASA EEK BALAM
Best hotels on Bacalar lagoon
Hotels on the water are more expensive than hotels in downtown, but the upside is you get the incredible views from your window! Many of these hotels offer kayaks and have wooden piers (or balnearios) from where you can jump in the water and take a refreshing swim.
5. Hotel Carolina Bacalar
Carolina is one of the most popular hotels on the lagoon that boasts rustic designs with balconies and hammocks. Unlike other hotels along the lagoon, Carolina Bacalar offers very reasonable prices, and a short distance to downtown, although you can also take a taxi to save time.
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If you decide to stay at Hotel Carolina Bacalar, you will be able to enjoy an on-site restaurant and a swimming pool.
Kayak rentals are available on property.
Continental breakfast that is available on request. Guests like the friendly staff and fast service at Hotel Carolina Bacalar. Parking is available on property.
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6. Casita Maya Bacalar
If you are looking for an affordable hotel on the lagoon, look no further! Casita Maya Bacalar is one of the best affordable hotels on the water with a garden, cozy hammocks and a wooden dock from where you can watch breathtaking sunrises and sunsets in Bacalar.
The hotel is a bit away from downtown and it takes about 15 minutes to reach the center of the town on foot. Bicycles and kayaks are available for rent.
Free parking is available.
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7. Villa Marilu Bed and Breakfast
One of the most reasonably-priced hotels in Bacalar, Villa Marilu offers a tranquil setting close to the Bacalar lagoon and yet it’s within walking distance of downtown.
Villa Marilu boasts a secluded location on the lagoon – and that’s exactly what many guests love about it! This place feels like a private home with complimentary parking, plenty of space and a big patio.
Cenote Cocalitos and Los Aluxes Bacalar are within 5 minutes from the property.
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8. Azul No Me Olvides Bacalar
If you are looking for an affordable and beautiful place to stay, Azul No Me Olvides is your best choice!
This hotel sits in the jungle right on the Bacalar Lagoon and boasts waterfront cabanas with free WiFi and a garden where you can enjoy a terrace and lake views.
Guests also enjoy a private beach area, so you don’t have to leave you hotel if you want to swim in the gorgeous Bacalar Lagoon. It’s a perfect place to relax and unwind.
A vegan breakfast is served daily. There’s also dinner available. Parking is free.
The nearest airport is Chetumal International Airport, 44 km away.
✅ CLICK HERE TO CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY
9. Royal Palm Bacalar
Royal Palm Bacalar Cabañas & Lagoon Club features 6 spacious rooms with private balconies, kitchenettes, coffee machines and refrigerators.
Guests enjoy FREE kayaks, paddle boards and FREE bikes to explore the town. It’s a small property that’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxing getaway without paying a ton of money.
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Best Bacalar Mexico resorts
If you are a luxury traveler looking to spend some time in Bacalar, the good news is that there are many high-end hotels with beautiful views of the lagoon. Many of them offer on-site restaurants, wellness and therapy services, as well as daily activities, making you feel truly at home.
For example, Hotel Rancho Encantado is one of the most beautiful luxury stays in Bacalar that is popular among couples.
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10. Hotel Casa Hormiga
If you are looking for a home away from home, stay in Casa Hormiga, a real oasis where you can relax and enjoy a variety of massages and wellness services for your mind and body.
One of the most impressive Bacalar resorts, Casa Hormiga has a designated place for yoga and meditation, as it puts a big emphasis on relaxation and rejuvenation of the body and spirit.
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The property boasts a beautiful rustic setting, a nice ambiance and also offers access to the best Beach Club in Bacalar “La Playita.” Sailing boat tours of the Bacalar lagoon can be arranged at the property.
11. Habitas Bacalar
Habitas Bacalar is one of the most beautiful places to stay in the area between the lagoon and lush jungle.
Habitas offers some of the best experiences with a variety of wellness therapies that reduce stress and anxiety, boost the immune system and help you to rejuvenate your body. Many visitors come here just for that.
Habitas has several types of rooms available: Lagoon rooms, which are styled as A-tent cabanas on the lake, jungle rooms that are located in the beautiful lush setting with palm trees and other vegetation, and mangrove rooms that offer a blend of lagoon and mangrove views.
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Habitas has on site-restaurant with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s an excellent place if you want to disconnect and recharge while traveling around Mexico since it’s along Highway 307 a few miles north from downtown Bacalar.
To get to downtown Bacalar from Habitas, you will need to take a taxi or rent a car.
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12. Hotel Khaban
Hotel Khaban is one of the best resorts in Bacalar, where you can stay for slightly less money than in Habitas Bacalar and Hotel Casa Hormiga.
Guests praise the beautiful design of the hotel and incredible views of the lake. Hotel Khaban is a bit of a distance from downtown which means you will either need to rent a car or get a taxi cab if you stay here.
The hotel provides kayaks and can also help you arrange a tour of the lagoon.
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The property also offers a big infinity pool, a great on-site restaurant with delicious food, and wooden decks over the water where you can relax and enjoy the views of the stunning lagoon.
Best mid-budget hotels
If you want to stay near the lagoon but don’t want to spend a ton of money, the city has plenty of options. Many mid-budget hotels are located within walking distance of the lagoon and downtown with all the stores and restaurants.
13. Hotel Sun Ha Bacalar
Hotel Sun Ha is a stylish property with a beautiful terrace and views of the lagoon. The hotel sits in a quiet area which is great if you want to relax or need a quiet space to work. Sun Ha also has common areas like a terraced rooftop and a beautiful garden.
Free breakfast is included in price. Bicycles are available for rent.
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14. Hotel La Galuna Bacalar
Hotel La Galuna boasts colorful minimalistic design and a quiet setting on the northern side of town. The lagoon is just one minute away by walking and the property also has an on-site restaurant, and a big pool.
The available rooms include a deluxe double room, deluxe double room with balcony, and master suite with balcony and jacuzzi.
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15. Hotel Aires Bacalar
A hidden gem of Bacalar, Hotel Aires boasts a convenient location near the lagoon and many restaurants. It also has a huge pool, spacious rooms, and friendly staff who can help you arrange tours of the lagoon. Hotel Aires Bacalar offers a combination of good prices and location near downtown.
Rooms at Hotel Aires feature cool modern art and come with a private terrace and hammocks and a beautiful main terrace from where you can watch the spectacular sunrise over the Bacalar lagoon.
✅ CHECK RATES AND AVAILABILITY HERE
Best boutique hotels in Bacalar
If you are looking for a combination of reasonable prices and wonderful amenities, check out some of cozy and insanely beautiful stays in Bacalar.
16. Blue Palm Bacalar
Blue Palm Bacalar is a small boutique hotel that has a swimming pool, a spacious common area, and a continental breakfast. Travelers like the property’s convenient location in the heart of town and friendly staff.
The beautiful design at Blue Palm Bacalar especially deserves attention. The property boasts gorgeous interior and exterior which helps to create a very cheerful atmosphere.
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17. Casa Chukum
One of the most stylish boutique hotels in Bacalar, Casa Chukum offers great location, beautiful pool, and nice common areas where you can work, do yoga and relax. The rooms at Casa Chukum have beautiful designs and vibrant colors.
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18. Maya Bacalar Hotel Boutique
Maya Bacalar Hotel Boutique is one of the best under-radar hotels that has stylish accommodations with great amenities, spectacular setting along the lagoon and none of the crowds. It boasts a restaurant, a bar, and a beautiful garden.
Parking is available for extra charge.
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All guest rooms at Maya Bacalar Hotel Boutique come with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Guests can also use a hot tub, sauna and enjoy kayaking and paddle boarding.
Best Bacalar hotels for budget travelers
If you are a budget traveler looking for a place to stay in Bacalar, you have many options. From small, no-frills hotels to hostels, Bacalar has plenty of accommodations for those who are trying to save some money.
19. Casa Delia Bacalar
Casa Delia is one of the best budget options in Bacalar. This property is a short distance from Bacalar’s ADO bus station and less than 10 minutes by walking from downtown.
This is a small family-run hotel with a nice pool, a spacious patio with cool hammocks where you can relax and enjoy the friendly atmosphere before continuing your adventures. Guests love Casa Delia’s excellent value for money and friendly staff.
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20. Hospedaje Casa Poblana
A basic hotel on a quiet street near downtown, Hospedaje Casa Pobalana is a great option for budget travelers. It has a terrace, a small garden, and plenty of restaurants nearby. It’s a good alternative to many hotels in the same area that cost more money.
Rooms have private bathrooms, air conditioning, wi-fi, and a wardrobe.
Free parking is available.
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21. Hotel El Manglar
Hotel El Manglar is a small family-owned hotel a few blocks from downtown Bacalar. The garden has plenty of space as well s tables and chairs where you can work, read a book, and just relax after a day of fun activities.
The hotel offers free breakfast, parking, and wi-fi in common areas. Bacalar Lagoon is only 3 minutes away. Travelers who stay here love the quiet atmosphere and friendly service.
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Best hostels in Bacalar
Bacalar is a popular destination for backpackers who stop here before continuing their trip around Mexico. If you want great prices and nice social atmosphere, book a stay at one of hostels in Bacalar.
22. Kulu Tubohostel Bacalar
If you are looking for a great social atmosphere and amenities, Kulu Tubohostel Bacalar is a must! The property offers tube-shaped cabanas with a swimming pool, as well as common areas. Also on-site, there’s a restart where you can get cocktails and delicious pizza.
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The place tends to attract a younger audience which is perfect if you want to socialize and make friends. Many travelers praise the friendly owners and great social atmosphere of this place.
Since the hostel is located on the outskirts, you might need to get a taxi if you want to go downtown Bacalar. Bicycles are available on the property.
23. The Yak Lake House Hostal
The Yak Lake House Hostal is one of the best hostels with shared and private rooms and also many activities for its guests.
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Yaxche is another popular hostel with cool campsites and continental breakfast.
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24. El Buho Glamping
If you have never tried glamping, Bacalar is an excellent place to do it!
But first, what is glamping?
In short, glamping is a more fancy version of camping which means you stay in nature, but the accommodations are more luxurious than a regular tent. Typically, you get a nice spacious canvass tent with a queen-size bed, side tables, and some other furniture.
If this sounds like something you want to try, check out El Buho Glamping Bacalar, one of the best hotels, if you want to spend time in nature and enjoy the views.
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Al glamping tents at El Buho have a neat design and offer seating and dining space. There’s also a nice common area with hammocks and fire pit and kitchen where you can cook food. And when you walk around, you will see beautiful fruit trees on property. Downtown is about 20 minutes away by walking.
PRO TIP: El Buho also has another location along Bacalar Lagoon. Book your stay there, if you want to avoid walking to downtown every time you want to eat or take a tour of the lagoon.
Find more hotels for your trip
If you haven’t found anything that matches your criteria and is still wondering about where to stay in Bacalar, I created an additional list of places to stay in Bacalar. Whether you are a solo traveler, a digital nomad, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or just need a place to relax and unplug, take a look at the list below.
Best pet-friendly hotel: Hotel Sur Bacalar
Aside from offering a great location and wonderful interior designs, Hotel Bacalar Sur is also known as one of the most pet-friendly options in Bacalar. Amenities include a nice swimming pool, an onsite restaurant, and private parking. This is a rare find, as not many hotels in town accept travelers with pets.
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Best hotel for long-term stay: Hotel and Suites Oasis Bacalar
If you plan to stay in town for at least a few weeks, book your stay at Suites Oasis Bacalar, an apartment-like hotel that has nice spacious rooms with kitchens, small dining areas, and a swimming pool.
The property has rooms on the balcony and the terrace in addition to private bungalows.
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Best condo hotel: Mayanah Bacalar
An apartment-style hotel, Mayanah Bacalar is a perfect stay for digital nomads who are looking to spend some time in Bacalar, as well as those travelers who want more amenities than a typical hotel has to offer. Mayanah boasts a convenient location, clean minimalistic design and everything that you need for an extended stay.
The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, a shared lounge, a garden and a terrace.
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All rooms come with patios, a kitchen with a microwave, a dining area and a seating area with a flat-screen TV. The property provides towels and bed linen for an extra charge.
Best hotel for solo travelers: Kulu Tubohostel Bacalar
Kulu Tubohostel Bacalar is often praised by travelers for its social atmosphere, delicious food, and nice ambiance. The hostel attracts a younger crowd and owners do their best to make their guests feel at home.
If you want a more quiet atmosphere and central location, consider Hotel Casa Ariana, a simple, yet cute property with spacious rooms within walking distance from the lagoon.
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Best hotel for couples: Rancho Encantado
Rancho Encantado is one of the most popular hotels for couples: it boasts a spectacular setting on the lagoon and a quiet secluded location – and yet it’s not far away from downtown! There’s also a pool and restaurants where you can grab some yummy food.
Also available at the hotel are free kayaks and paddleboards that you can enjoy all day long. The staff helps you to arrange tours of the lagoons and airport transfer.
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Best budget hotel: Casa Delia
The best hotel if you are looking for value for your money! Casa Delia has a superb location near downtown, a nice pool, and a spacious deck where you can work and relax.
Another option is Asile Boutique Hotel in the heart of Bacalar with clean spacious rooms and friendly staff.
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Best Hotels In Bacalar: FAQ’s
If you still have questions, I put together a list of the most common questions:
Where is Bacalar located?
Bacalar is in southern Yucatan, less than one hour from the Belize border.
A designated Pueblo Magico, Bacalar is quickly becoming one of the most popular places to visit in the region. That’s why now is a great time to put this town on your itinerary!
PRO TIP: Bacalar is a also great stop if you want to continue your adventures to other parts of Mexico (like Chiapas and Oaxaca) or head to Central America since the border with Belize is so close.
How to get to Bacalar from Cancun
To get to Bacalar, you can catch the ADO bus from Cancun to Chetumal with a stop in Bacalar from the main bus station in Cancun. The bus also makes stops in Tulum and Playa Del Carmen.
Another option is to rent a car in Cancun after you land at the Cancun Airport.
Private transportation to Bacalar
If you like comfort, hire private transportation from Cancun airport to Bacalar.
You will get picked up at the airport and get straight to your hotel without having to use public transportation or driving. This is especially a great option for those travelers who are short on time and want to get the most out of their trip.
Driving to Bacalar
Renting a car in Cancun and taking a drive to Bacalar is the most convenient option because it allows you to travel at your pace and explore other places along the way.
I like renting cars at City Car Rental in Cancun, a Mexican car rental company with services around the country. Another option is DiscoverCars where you can find dozens of rental car companies offering a good variety of vehicles.
I’ve used DiscoverCars on many trips, and always had a good experience with them.
PRO TIP: If you have questions about renting a car in Mexico, read this article.
Driving distances
- Cancun to Bacalar – 215 miles (346 kilometers) 4 hours, 20 minutes
- Playa Del Carmen to Bacalar – 173 miles (279 kilometers) 3 hours, 35 minutes
- Tulum to Bacalar – 133 miles (215 kilometers) 2 hours, 30 minutes
Where to stay in Bacalar?
You should choose your accommodation depending on your preferences and budget. If you want to save money and be close to restaurants and stores, you should book a hotel in downtown. If you have a bigger budget, you can stay in one of those gorgeous hotels on the lagoon.
✅ Check: Best time to visit Playa Del Carmen
HOTELS IN BACALAR: FAQ
What makes Bacalar special?
Bacalar is a quiet pueblo that has become famous because of its incredible lagoon of seven colors (Laguna De Siete Colores in Spanish). The lagoon has various depths and you can observe different shades of blue here thanks to the clear bottom.
How long to stay in Bacalar?
Spend no less than 3 days in Bacalar, especially if you are visiting for the first time. Ideally, plan about 5 days in Bacalar to get the most out of your stay. The town is small, but time will fly when you get here!
Does Bacalar Lagoon have crocodiles?
Yes, Bacalar does have crocodiles, but they are not interested in eating you. You can spot crocodiles in parts of the lagoon, however, it’s not a common sight. Unfortunately, there have been a few cases in recent years when crocodiles have been killed by jet skis.
Are there mosquitoes in Bacalar?
Yes, there are mosquitoes in Bacalar. Carry a spray, because you will likely get some bites. There is a lot of mosquitoes during the rainy season from June through October and you can see them after it rains.
Is Bacalar safe?
Yes! Bacalar is safe to visit, and, it’s much safer than other popular destinations in Quintana Roo like Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, or even Tulum. I’ve walked around at night and rode my bicycle on the streets of Bacalar, and never felt unsafe.
That, however, doesn’t mean that you should forget about common sense. Your safety and wellbeing are on you while you are on the road, and Bacalar is no exception just like any other place.
If safety is a concern, consider getting World Nomads insurance that will protect you in case of lost or stolen luggage, accidents, hospital visits, and many other unforeseen events. Another option is Safety Wing, which is perfect for long-term travelers who plan to explore Mexico for a while.
PRO TIP: To stay safe while traveling in Mexico, take a look at my list of travel tips for this country.
Does Bacalar have Internet?
Yes, Bacalar does have Internet, although the speed depends on where you stay. Some hotels have better Internet connection than others, so if you are working remotely, always check reviews to see what other travelers say about wi-fi speed at a given place.
Is Bacalar expensive?
Bacalar is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Mexico, but you don’t have to spend a lot of money to afford a vacation here! Many backpackers stay in budget hotels and hostels and the town has a good variety of accommodations for all budgets.
Does Bacalar have a beach?
Bacalar is located along the lagoon of seven colors, and while there are no beaches on the lagoon, there are many balnearios (or wooden decks) where you can jump in the water and later relax and catch some sun. Most balnearios are privately owned by hotels and restaurants, but there a few public ones that are free.
If you want to visit some of the best beaches in the area, go to Mahahual, a small beach town just 1,5 hours away from Bacalar where you can dive and enjoy the Caribbean breeze.
Is Bacalar worth visiting?
Bacalar lagoon is one of the most beautiful places I’ve visited in Mexico, and I can’t recommend it enough!
The Bacalar lagoon is called the lagoon of seven colors (or Laguna de Siete Colores in Spanish) because of the many shades of blue that can be found around the lake. The views here are simply phenomenal and if Bacalar isn’t on your bucket list, it should be there!
There are many activities on the lake, from sailing to kayaking and paddleboarding to just hanging out in the hammock and visiting all the cool cenotes in the area.
Final word
I hope this article was able to answer your questions and made it easier for you to choose from many hotels in Bacalar. If you have more questions, let me know in the comments.