A Week in Bacalar - The Maldives of Mexico

You are likely to have flown into Cancun and therefore the trek down Quintana Roo will take some time so arrival times are generally in the afternoon. After checking into your hotel, take a walk through town to stretch your legs. For a late lunch I recommend going to enjoy a cocktail and some tacos at La Playita, a local and personal favorite. Around 5 p.m., head to the Ecoparque for sunset and stay for crocodile watching as they start to emerge out of the mangroves.

No matter how you choose to experience it, a sailing adventure is the perfect way to start your tropical getaway and set the tone for a relaxing and unforgettable vacation. I used Adventure Lab and opted for the catamaran, not only because it’s environmentally better for the health of the lagoon, but quieter and generally a smaller group. All tours visit the same three areas and most have a mid-day (my preference) or sunset option.

For dinner, I recommend Mistura as their wine selection, herb-crusted tuna and grilled octopus are fabulous.

There's nothing quite like starting your day with a peaceful sunrise paddle boarding session. The calm waters, stunning colors in the sky and chirps of exotic birds flying overhead create a magical atmosphere that will rejuvenate your mind and body. As you glide through the water, toward the Cenote Negro, you'll feel a sense of tranquility and serenity that sets the tone for the rest of your day. Go out by group with The Adventure Lab or book privately with Baca Sup Adventures.

After your session, grab some breakfast at El Manatí then head to a beach club to relax. Sitting on a deck, sipping a margarita and soaking up the beauty of this pristine paradise is an excellent way relax after a morning of activity. My recommendation is Bertilla Lagoon Beach Club, as they charge 300 pesos, but give you 250 peso back in food and beverage credits.

Have you ever wondered what it is like to kayak through the most gorgeous lazy river? Nestled fifteen minutes south of town (yes, the only taxi you need to take) is Los Rapidos, a not so hidden gem in the area. I opted for the path less traveled, less expensive and more active, as I often do. Getting there early is key and so I arrived at Sac-Ha around 10 and rented my kayak. I paddled up river toward the rapids, which was a nice mid-morning workout. I added a little extra time and headed to Laguna Bonanza for a snack and water, as the cruise back was going to be easy and lazy. I spent three hours paddling, cruising and soaking in sun. Please note you cannot stop or use the facilities at Los Rapidos unless you pay their access fee (around 200 pesos)

For dinner I recommend a small farm to table restaurant nestled in a jungle garden call Tierra Ixim.

On your final day, I recommend having a day of discovery. Any of these short activities can be paired with another day, however sometimes it’s best to play it by ear.

Start off in the morning with a bike rental and take the coast to the Cenote Azul, the only cenote that is not part of the lagoon. Spend an hour swimming and relaxing before heading back into town for a self-guided kayak/paddling adventure.

Stop and rent at Maracuya where Baca Sup Adventures is based out of. From here you can cruise south, heading toward Cenote Esmeralda and wrap around to Cenote Cocolitos. I gave myself two hours and it was perfect. If you want a longer, more active paddle, hire Mario to take your through the Pirates Canal and into the backside of the lagoon for a more solitude and serene experience. This option lasted about four hours, as I added a drone shoot onto it.