Derived from the Mayan words Bak Halal, "place surrounded by reeds", Bacalar is a lakeside town 24 miles northwest of Chetumal where fishing, windsurfing, canoeing, water-skiing, rowing, sailing and birdwatching are popular activities.
Bacalar Lagoon, also known as the "lake of seven colors", is 26 miles long and about one mile wide. On its shores lies Cenote Azul, an exceptionally transparent body of water approximately 127 ft deep and surrounded by lush tropical vegetation.
The Fortress of San Felipe Bacalar was built in 1729 to protect the town from pirates, and is now a popular tourist attraction.
