Skip to main content

There’s a reason this travel spot is known as the Maldives of Mexico

An affordable alternative to the Maldives

Color graded picture of a pier with clouds and blue water at the Laguna Bacalar, Chetumal, Quintana Roo, Mexico.
Fotos 593 / Adobe Stock

Picture pristine turquoise waters stretching as far as the eye can see, surrounded by lush greenery and white sandy beaches. This luxurious scene isn’t just a dream reserved for far-off destinations like the Maldives. Situated in the southeastern corner of Mexico lies a hidden gem that rivals the beauty of its distant Asian counterpart: Bacalar. 

Recommended Videos

Bacalar, often referred to as the “Maldives of Mexico,” is a gorgeous destination renowned for the Bacalar Lagoon, otherwise known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” Bacalar, Mexico’s crystal clear waters, resemble the famous hues of the Indian Ocean surrounding the Maldives. But what sets Bacalar apart isn’t just its striking resemblance to the Maldives—it’s the accessibility, affordability, and unique experiences it offers travelers without the lengthy journey. So pack your bags and head to Mexico.

Where is Bacalar, Mexico?

aerial view of turquoise pirates channel at Bacalar Lagoon with boats and sandbars, blue sky, white clouds
Andreas / Adobe Stock

Bacalar is located in the southeastern region of Mexico, specifically in the state of Quintana Roo. It is just 25 miles north of the popular tourist destination of Chetumal. Additionally, the municipality is only a few miles away from the Belize border.

Surrounded by dense jungle vegetation and nestled within the Yucatan Peninsula, Bacalar, Mexico, offers a serene and secluded setting that feels worlds away from the busy resorts of Cancun and Playa del Carmen. However, its proximity to major transportation hubs makes it easily accessible for travelers looking to take a fun day trip out of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

What makes Bacalar so special?

Bacalar aerial views with drone
Daniel Bouquets / Shutterstock

Recognized by the Mexican government as a Pueblo Magico (Magical Town), Bacalar, Mexico, is a sight to be seen. While Bacalar may feel like a beach town, there is no actual beach in the area. Instead, the gorgeous colors in the water are a part of the giant freshwater lagoon known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors.” The lagoon’s crystal-clear waters, varying depths, and limestone formations create an enchanting atmosphere for visitors. Travelers are encouraged to swim, kayak, and sail along the waters in the lagoon.

In addition to the lagoon, there are several other natural wonders to explore. Bacalar is nestled within an incredibly diverse ecological region, surrounded by jungle vegetation and dotted with cenotes, which are natural sinkholes filled with freshwater. Bacalar is also quite peaceful and serene, unlike the bustling tourist hotspots nearby, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet vacation.

Bacalar vs. Maldives: why Bacalar is the better choice

Kayaking in Bacalar
Daniel Bouquets / Shutterstock

While the Maldives undoubtedly boasts its own allure, Bacalar offers several advantages that make it a compelling alternative for travelers seeking a tropical paradise closer to home.

  • Accessibility: Bacalar, Mexico, is much more accessible for many travelers compared to the Maldives. Bacalar can be reached via direct flights to Cancun, followed by a scenic drive into the municipality. Heading to the Maldives typically requires long-haul flights and multiple layovers.
  • Affordability: Traveling to Bacalar tends to be more budget-friendly compared to the Maldives. The Maldives is known for its luxurious resorts and high-end accommodations, while Bacalar offers a wide range of lodging options to suit different budgets. You’ll also find dining and shopping to be more affordable in Bacalar. 
  • Diverse activities: While both destinations offer crystal clear waters, Bacalar has a greater diversity of activities for vacationers to take part in. In addition to the Bacalar Lagoon, visitors can enjoy nearby cenotes, hike through the jungle, and enjoy shopping in the center of the community.

Book your trip today

Woman swimming in lagoon.
Loes Kieboom / Shutterstock

With its accessibility, affordability, and rich cultural heritage, Bacalar offers travelers a captivating alternative to far-away destinations like the Maldives. While Bacalar is a great destination all year around, the municipality is at its best weather-wise from December through March during the community’s dry season.

Amanda Teague
Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer featured in several online publications, is a dedicated explorer of both the world…
Around the world in 60 days: The ultimate luxury travel experience
Rajasthan

Recent travel trends suggest travelers are seeking inspiration through entertainment. Thanks to Guy Ritchie's Fountain of Youth, starring John Krasinski and Natalie Portman, travelers are now hopping aboard the "around the world" travel trend. Data from Spate suggests that social media views on videos related to travel around the world have increased by 20% this quarter, with an average weekly view of 79.6 million.

Additionally, the search term "trip around the world" has increased by 5% this past quarter, indicating that travelers are interested in continent-hopping. Building on this trend concept, Butterfield & Robinson has launched a new "60-Day Around the World" trip that seamlessly blends luxury, culture, and conscious travel into a single journey.

Read more
This Georgia island was just named the most underrated travel destination in the U.S.
St. Simons Island is a quiet escape just off the coast of Georgia
St. Simons Island

Looking for a beach getaway without the crowds? U.S. News & World Report has just named St. Simons Island, Georgia, the most underrated travel destination in the country. As part of its annual Best Vacations rankings, the outlet evaluated more than 1,500 global destinations, scoring them across categories like culture, food, and adventure. When all the data was in, this quiet Georgia barrier island topped the list.

While St. Simons is a favorite summer spot for Georgians, it's often overlooked by travelers heading to more well-known beach destinations in Florida or the Carolinas. But the largest of the Golden Isles offers plenty of reasons to slow down and stay awhile, from dune-lined beaches and moss-draped oak trees to maritime forests and small shopping villages.

Read more
Kayak says this Canadian city is the top affordable global destination
Toronto, Canada took the top spot
Toronto

Looking for an international summer getaway that won’t break the bank? According to Kayak’s newly released Summer Travel Check-In report, Toronto is your best bet. The travel site analyzed thousands of searches and found that Toronto is the most affordable international destination this season, with average round-trip airfare costing just $331. The average airfare for international flights this summer is down 7% from last year.

Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is a busy, walkable city packed with things to do. You can visit the iconic CN Tower, explore world-class museums like the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum, or catch a Toronto Blue Jays game at the waterfront Rogers Centre. For something more relaxed, hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands or explore hip neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Queen West.

Read more