Bacalar Street Art Corridor - Image 1
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Main Square Bacalar

4.5
·1k reviews·Bacalar, Mexico

The heart of Bacalar, a vibrant square with a historic fort, lively evening markets, and gateway to the stunning Lagoon of Seven Colors.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Lively atmosphere & street food

CrowdMedium
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Bacalar Street Art Corridor - Image 1

Main Square Bacalar

Best Time

Evenings

Lively atmosphere & street food

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The heart of Bacalar, a vibrant square with a historic fort, lively evening markets, and gateway to the stunning Lagoon of Seven Colors.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"The Zócalo in Bacalar is the kind of place that makes you want to extend your trip just so you can eat there again."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Try the Marquesitas

Don't miss these crispy crepes filled with cheese or Nutella, a must-try street food in the main square at night.

🛶 Kayak or Paddleboard

Explore the lagoon at your own pace with a kayak or paddleboard for an intimate experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fuerte San Felipe & Pirate Museum

Fuerte San Felipe & Pirate Museum

Adjacent to the Main Square

Explore this historic fort and museum, offering a glimpse into Bacalar's pirate past and stunning views of the lagoon.

Instagram
Lagoon of Seven Colors

Lagoon of Seven Colors

Bacalar Lagoon

Marvel at the breathtaking shades of blue and green in this unique freshwater lagoon, perfect for swimming and boat tours.

TikTok
Evening Street Food Delights

Evening Street Food Delights

Main Square

Indulge in local favorites like marquesitas, churros, and crepes from lively street vendors as the sun sets.

Instagram
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Embrace the Evening Buzz

The Main Square comes alive at night with street food vendors and local artisans. It's the perfect spot to experience Bacalar's vibrant evening atmosphere and sample delicious marquesitas and other local treats. Reddit

Protect the Stromatolites

Bacalar's lagoon is home to fragile stromatolites, ancient living fossils. Be mindful of the environment; avoid touching them and opt for eco-friendly tours to preserve this natural wonder. TikTok

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere & street food
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Mornings
Why
Peaceful sunrise views
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

El mejor día de mi vida 😭😭😭😭 #army #bts #taehyung #parkseojoon #choiwooshik #bacalar #kpop #kpopers
@rainiesukie
407.9K likes • 1.5M views

🎯 Try the Marquesitas

Don't miss these crispy crepes filled with cheese or Nutella, a must-try street food in the main square at night. Instagram

🛶 Kayak or Paddleboard

Explore the lagoon at your own pace with a kayak or paddleboard for an intimate experience. TikTok

#travelmexico #bacalar #lagoon
@travelsuat
113.8K likes • 2.2M views
Un paseo a través de la historia de #Bacalar ✨⁣⁣ ⁣ Este impresionante castillo junto a la plaza principal es el Fuerte San Felipe y Museo de la Piratería. 🏰⁣ 🚩⁣ ⁣ ¿Ya lo conoces? 🤩⁣ ⁣ .⁣⁣ .⁣⁣ .⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣⁣ This impressive castle located next to the main square is the San Felipe Fort and Pirate Museum. 🏰⁣ 🚩⁣ ⁣ Have you ever been here? 🤩⁣ ⁣ ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣⁣ 🎥: @_jmclife_⁣ ⁣ ⁣ ⁣ #CaribeMexicano #MexicanCaribbean⁣ ...
visitbacalar
90 likes • 2.7K views

☀️ Sunrise Serenity

Catch the magical sunrise over the lagoon for a peaceful start to your day. InstagramReddit

🛡️ Visit the Fort

Learn about Bacalar's history at the San Felipe Fort and enjoy panoramic views. Instagram

BEST TACOS 👇🏼 Send this to a friend you want to eat all these tacos with 🤤 Our favourite food spots in Mexico: Bacalar: Mi burrito Mr taco Hijos de Cocho Marquesitas (main square at night) Merida: Taquería de La Union Gorditas Doña Gorda La Chaya Maya San Cristobal: Xocol churros La Viña de Boca Oaxaca: Levadura de Olla ($$$) Chemita tacos Pasillo de humo Mercado 20 (chaguita) ...
brittandmitchworldwide
134 likes • 13.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Try the Marquesitas

Don't miss these crispy crepes filled with cheese or Nutella, a must-try street food in the main square at night. Instagram

🛶 Kayak or Paddleboard

Explore the lagoon at your own pace with a kayak or paddleboard for an intimate experience. TikTok

☀️ Sunrise Serenity

Catch the magical sunrise over the lagoon for a peaceful start to your day. InstagramReddit

🛡️ Visit the Fort

Learn about Bacalar's history at the San Felipe Fort and enjoy panoramic views. Instagram

👟 Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking around the square and potentially exploring the lagoon. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bacalar's Main Square is a charming and lively hub, praised for its vibrant evening atmosphere, delicious street food, and historical significance. Visitors enjoy the Fuerte San Felipe and the proximity to the stunning Lagoon of Seven Colors. Some mention ongoing construction, but the overall experience is highly positive, highlighting its magical ambiance and value.

"Lovely park with beautiful trees. Also was clean and we'll taken care of. A handful of food stands with all the common evening street food like marquesitas, machacados, churros, crepes.. there was no taco stands though."

Geneva Ebersol

"Very lively at night time with variety of mexican snacks and souvenirs."

Luigi Polanco

"Nice place to sit, enjoy the shade and a cold ice cream. Watch artist performances. See the fort, Bacalar Letters sign, have dinner on any of the many restaurants around the plaza, take a boat tour of the lagoon."

Jose Herrera

What People Like

Vibrant evening atmosphere
Delicious street food
Historic Fuerte San Felipe

What People Dislike

Ongoing construction

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Main Square (Zócalo) is the heart of Bacalar and easily accessible. If arriving from Cancun, it's about a 4.5-hour drive south. Many visitors arrive by car or bus. Taxis are readily available within Bacalar to take you to the square. TikTok

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to arrive early or be prepared to walk a short distance from nearby streets. TikTok

Yes, Bacalar is accessible from Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun. Buses are a common and affordable option, with journeys typically ranging from 2 to 4.5 hours. TikTok

While Bacalar is walkable, especially the area around the main square, local taxis are available for longer distances or if you prefer not to walk. TikTok

Many travelers visit Bacalar as a day trip from Tulum or Playa del Carmen. Renting a car offers the most flexibility, or you can opt for ADO buses. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Main Square itself is a public space and free to enter. However, attractions within or around the square, like the Fuerte San Felipe, may have admission fees. Instagram

The Main Square is generally accessible at all hours, but the atmosphere and vendors are most active in the evenings. The Fuerte San Felipe has specific operating hours. Instagram

Yes, boat tours for the Lagoon of Seven Colors typically require booking and payment. Prices can vary depending on the duration and inclusions. TikTok

No, you pay for the food you purchase from the street vendors. Prices are generally affordable and offer great value. Instagram

Admission fees for the Fuerte San Felipe are typically modest, allowing access to the fort and its museum. Check local listings for current prices. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Explore the Fuerte San Felipe, enjoy the evening street food, take photos with the Bacalar sign, and consider a boat tour of the Lagoon of Seven Colors. TikTokInstagram

You'll find popular Mexican snacks like marquesitas (crispy crepes), churros, crepes, and machacados. Taco stands are less common in the square itself. InstagramReddit

Yes, the area surrounding the Main Square offers a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale dining, serving local and international cuisine. Reddit

The Main Square is most vibrant in the evenings, typically from sunset onwards, when street vendors set up and locals gather. Reddit

Direct access to swimming from the immediate Main Square area is limited. You'll typically need to go to designated beach clubs or take a boat tour for lagoon access. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Marquesitas are a must-try, along with churros and crepes from the street vendors. For a sit-down meal, explore the restaurants around the square for diverse options. InstagramReddit

While many street foods are naturally vegetarian (like marquesitas without meat), options can be limited. Restaurants around the square are more likely to offer diverse vegetarian and vegan choices. Reddit

Street food is very affordable, typically ranging from 30-100 MXN. Restaurant prices vary, but you can find good value meals for around 150-300 MXN per person. Reddit

Yes, many restaurants and bars around the square offer a variety of cocktails, fresh juices, and local beers. Reddit

While the square is known for its street food, surrounding areas have highly-rated restaurants. 'Zócalo' is mentioned as a place with a great dining experience, blending traditional and modern flavors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the Fuerte San Felipe, the iconic 'Bacalar' sign, the colorful buildings around the square, and the vibrant street food stalls at night. Instagram+1

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Evenings are great for capturing the lively atmosphere and colorful lights. Reddit

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check local rules and be mindful of privacy. Some tours might offer drone footage. Instagram

Photographing the distinct seven colors of the lagoon from a boat or viewpoint, and capturing the ancient stromatolites (from a distance) are unique opportunities. TikTok

While you can see the lagoon from some points near the square, the best lagoon views are typically from boat tours, designated beach clubs, or viewpoints further along the shore. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bacalar's Main Square and lagoon offer family-friendly fun. The Fuerte San Felipe can be an engaging historical adventure for kids, with its pirate theme. Instagram Evenings in the square are great for trying out various street foods like marquesitas and churros, which are usually a hit with children. Instagram

For lagoon activities, consider kayaking or paddleboarding in calmer areas, or look for family-friendly beach clubs that offer shallow entry points and amenities. TikTok Some tours might be more suitable for families, so inquire about age restrictions and activity levels. The gentle currents at Los Rápidos can also be a fun, safe way for kids to experience the water. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

The Main Square is a fantastic destination for budget travelers. Entry to the square and enjoying the evening ambiance is free. Reddit Indulge in delicious and affordable street food like marquesitas and churros, which are significantly cheaper than restaurant meals. Instagram

Opt for public transportation like ADO buses to reach Bacalar from other cities, which is more economical than private transfers. TikTok For lagoon exploration, renting a kayak or paddleboard can be a cost-effective alternative to organized boat tours. TikTok Many accommodations outside the immediate tourist center also offer better rates. TikTok

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

Bacalar's Main Square offers a charming setting for couples. Enjoy a romantic evening stroll as the square lights up, sampling street food together. Reddit Consider a sunset boat tour on the Lagoon of Seven Colors for breathtaking views and a tranquil experience. Instagram Many restaurants around the square offer intimate dining settings with delicious food and cocktails, perfect for a special dinner. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Lagoon of Seven Colors

The Laguna de Bacalar, often called the 'Maldives of Mexico,' is the star attraction. Its stunning seven shades of blue and turquoise are due to varying depths and underwater cenotes. TikTok Visitors can experience the lagoon through various activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, or boat tours. TikTok Many tours include stops at the Pirate's Channel and the Cenote Negro, offering unique perspectives of the lagoon's ecosystem. TikTok

When exploring, remember the lagoon is home to stromatolites, which are ancient, living rock-like formations. These are incredibly fragile and vital to the lagoon's ecosystem. It's crucial to follow guidelines to avoid touching or disturbing them, ensuring their preservation for future generations. TikTok Eco-friendly tours emphasize responsible tourism and education about these natural wonders. TikTok

For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting Los Rápidos de Bacalar, a natural channel where the freshwater lagoon meets the sea, creating a gentle current. TikTok+1 Here, you can float along, enjoy the shallow waters, and relax in a natural lazy river. Some beach clubs also offer direct lagoon access with amenities like pools and loungers. TikTok

Bacalar's Historical Heart: The Main Square

The Main Square (Zócalo) of Bacalar is the town's vibrant center, steeped in history and buzzing with local life. Dominating the square is the Fuerte San Felipe, a 17th-century Spanish fort built to defend against pirates. Instagram Today, it houses the Museo de la Piratería (Pirate Museum), offering a fascinating look into the region's swashbuckling past. Instagram Exploring the fort provides not only historical insights but also panoramic views of the surrounding town and the distant lagoon.

As dusk settles, the Main Square transforms into a lively hub for street food vendors and local artisans. Reddit This is the perfect time to sample authentic Mexican snacks like marquesitas (crispy crepes with sweet or savory fillings), churros, and crepes. Instagram The atmosphere is festive, with families and travelers mingling, enjoying the cool evening air and the array of delicious treats. It's a quintessential Bacalar experience that captures the town's relaxed yet vibrant spirit. Reddit

Beyond the fort and food, the square is a great place to simply relax. You can find shaded benches, enjoy an ice cream, and sometimes even catch artist performances. Reddit The iconic 'Bacalar' sign is also a popular spot for photos, making the Main Square a central point for both historical exploration and cultural immersion. Reddit

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