Travelers have been vacationing in the Mayan Riviera destinations of Cancun and Playa Del Carmen for what seems like forever. Over the last decade, droves of wellness seekers and partiers descended upon Tulum, changing the tapestry of this once low-key beach town entirely. Prefer to steer clear of locales that are overrun with tourists? Recently, another Quintana Roo gem has started to gain international attention.
Located near the Mexico-Belize border, the Pueblo Magico (magic town) of Bacalar sits on Lake Bacalar, nicknamed the Lagoon of Seven Colors for its many shades of blue. Being centered around the second-largest freshwater lake in the country makes it ideal for swimming, sailing and kayaking. Certainly, the laid-back atmosphere and lack of crowds, plus chill hotels to hang your wide-brimmed sun hat at the end of the day, elevate the vacation paradise vibes. Historic landmarks and proximity to Mayan ruins give visitors a chance to learn about the local culture.
Ready to plan what promises to be the first of many trips to Bacalar? Scroll on for the best places to stay and things to do in this burgeoning South of the Border hotspot.
