The Perfect Weekend Getaway: Bacalar, Holbox, and El Cuyo
The Mexican Caribbean isn’t just about Playa del Carmen and Tulum. While we love both cities, some of the most breathtaking destinations are just a few hours away, offering pristine beaches, stunning lagoons, and a much-needed escape from the crowds. With Semana Santa (Easter Week) just around the corner, there’s no better way to relax and unplug than getting out of town for the weekend. Whether you’re in the mood for the turquoise blues of Bacalar, the barefoot island vibes of Holbox, or the untouched beauty of El Cuyo, this guide will help you plan the perfect weekend getaway, complete with dreamy waterfront stays, delicious food, and unforgettable adventures.
Explore These Destinations:
Bacalar: The Lagoon of Seven Colors
If you’re like us, you never tire of seeing the beautiful blues of the Caribbean Sea. But let me tell you, Bacalar gives those blues a run for their money. Known as the “Lagoon of Seven Colors,” Bacalar’s shades of blue will leave you speechless. And the water is fresh, not salty. Getting there takes about four hours from Playa del Carmen and three and a half from Tulum, but trust me—it’s worth every minute.
Where to Stay in Bacalar
There are many beautiful places to stay in Bacalar, but staying on the lagoon is a must. There is nothing better than waking up in the morning to watch the sunrise over the lagoon. Bacalar has a serenity and peacefulness that makes it impossible not to relax.
Casa Bakal
For a luxurious and tranquil stay right on the water, book a room at Casa Bakal. You can wake up to panoramic views of the lagoon and step right into the water from their private dock. We love that Casa Bakal has options for travelers as a couple or a group of friends. Some rooms sleep 2 to 4. There are cute little lagoon-front bungalows and studios to rent. The rooms are quaint and homey, making them the perfect spot to stay.
Habitas Bacalar
Another dreamy spot is Habitas Bacalar, an eco-chic retreat offering overwater hammocks, a stunning infinity pool, and wellness experiences like yoga and sound healing. With beautifully designed thatched-roof lodges and an intimate lagoon-front setting, it’s the perfect spot to disconnect while indulging in comfort.
MBH Maya Bacalar
MBH Maya Bacalar is a sleek boutique hotel with a modern design. Each suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, and direct access to the water, making it ideal for a tranquil, luxurious escape. With an on-site restaurant serving fresh local cuisine and activities like paddleboarding and kayaking, MBH Maya blends comfort, nature, and adventure in one breathtaking setting.
Casa Hormiga
Last but not least, we have to mention the beautiful Casa Hormiga. It might not be on the lagoon front, but it doesn’t matter. This lovely hotel offers an unparalleled retreat into wellness and luxury, blending high-end design with holistic experiences.
What To Do in Bacalar
The number one thing to do when you get to Bacalar is relax. Staying at any of the beautiful properties mentioned above will make it hard for you to want to do much more than chill. But, if you feel like exploring once you’ve settled in, the best way to experience Bacalar is by getting out on the water. A boat tour will take you to the Pirates’ Channel, Cenote Esmeralda, and Los Rápidos, a lagoon section where you can float effortlessly with the gentle current. If you prefer a more peaceful experience, grab a kayak or paddleboard at sunrise and enjoy the stillness of the morning.
Where To Eat in Bacalar
Regarding dining, Bacalar has refined its culinary scene to cater to those with exceptional taste.
Albahaca
Breakfast at Albahaca is a true treat, blending fresh, local ingredients with a cozy, bohemian atmosphere. This quaint restaurant is known for its beautifully plated dishes and wholesome flavors. Their avocado toast is a standout, topped with perfectly ripe avocado, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil on artisanal bread. If you’re craving something heartier, their chilaquiles—served with homemade salsa, eggs, and queso fresco—hit the spot. Pair your meal with a freshly pressed juice or a smooth oat milk latte, and you’ve got the perfect start to a slow morning by the lagoon.
La Playita
A fan favorite for lunch (and dinner, too), we love La Playita. Lagoon front and nestled into the trees, surrounded by vegetation. La Playita offers a laid-back spot to grab lunch. Their tuna tostadas are a favorite—thinly sliced, marinated in citrus, topped with avocado and crispy leeks, perfect for a light but flavorful meal. If you’re craving something heartier, the grilled octopus or their take on shrimp tacos won’t disappoint. But the real star comes at the end—the chocolate volcano dessert. This rich, gooey lava cake is pure indulgence, oozing warm chocolate with every bite, and is perfectly paired with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. Take our advice, order your own, and do not share this dessert!
Nixtamal
For dinner, make a reservation at Nixtamal. Blending traditional Mexican flavors with modern techniques, all in a chic yet rustic setting, Nixtamal is known for its focus on heirloom corn and authentic nixtamalization, which takes its tacos and tamales to the next level. Their slow-cooked cochinita pibil is a standout, served with handmade blue corn tortillas that bring out the dish’s rich, smoky flavors. Pair your meal with one of their carefully curated mezcal cocktails, and don’t leave without trying their corn-based dessert, a sweet and creamy tribute to Mexico’s most sacred ingredient. With its intimate ambiance and dedication to high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, Nixtamal is a must for food lovers looking to experience Bacalar’s vibrant gastronomic scene.
Unlike the busier beach destinations of the Riviera Maya, Bacalar has a laid-back, off-the-grid vibe, making it ideal for slowing down, soaking in the natural beauty, and leaving the stresses of everyday life behind. Whether you’re watching the sunrise over the lagoon, indulging in fresh local cuisine, or just enjoying the silence of this magical town, Bacalar is the ultimate place to relax and recharge.
Holbox: The Island Paradise
Holbox feels like it belongs in a dream. No cars, sandy streets, and a relaxed island vibe make this a perfect weekend destination. The ferry to Holbox leaves from Chiquilá, about two and a half hours from Playa del Carmen and two hours from Tulum. Holbox Island is located off the northern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, where the Caribbean Sea meets the Gulf of Mexico. This unique location gives Holbox its distinctive, shallow turquoise waters, often calmer and silkier than the deeper, wave-filled shores of the Riviera Maya. Unlike the crystal-clear waters of Playa del Carmen or Tulum, Holbox’s sea has a slightly milky, jade-like hue caused by fine white sand mixing with the gentle tides, creating a dreamy, almost surreal effect perfect for wading and relaxing.
Where to Stay in Holbox
Holbox offers diverse accommodations that capture the island’s bohemian and relaxed spirit. Whether you prefer an artistic boutique home with holistic touches or a modern beachfront retreat, you’ll find lodging that emphasizes comfort, local style, and a truly immersive island experience.
Ser Casasandra
Book a room at Ser Casasandra for the ultimate stay. It is known for its artistic design and beachfront location. Ser Casasandra feels more like a home than a hotel, precisely how it was conceived and designed by its owner, artist, and writer, Sandra Perez. With an onsite holistic center, it is impossible NOT to relax when you stay at this stunning property. Elegantly designed suites feature soft neutral tones, natural textures, and private plunge pools, creating a dreamy, tranquil retreat. Just steps from the beach, this hidden gem offers a serene escape where you can unwind in style, sip cocktails under swaying palms, and embrace the slow, magical rhythm of Holbox.
Villas Flamingos
Villas Flamingos is a boutique beachfront hotel that offers a variety of accommodations, including rooms and bungalows, each featuring private terraces with hammocks and views of the sea. Some units have private plunge pools or hot tubs for added luxury. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s three swimming pools—two exclusively for adults and one family-friendly—and the on-site Mangle Restaurant, which serves innovative Mexican fusion cuisine. The property provides complimentary use of paddleboards and bicycles, allowing guests to explore the island’s natural beauty. Villas Flamingos is approximately a 15-minute walk or a 10-minute bike ride from the town center, offering a secluded retreat with convenient access to local attractions.
Casa Las Tortugas
Another incredible option is Casa Las Tortugas, offering a range of uniquely designed accommodations, including beachfront rooms with private terraces and suites featuring private pools. Guests can enjoy a complimentary international à la carte breakfast at the hotel’s beachside restaurant, Mandarina, which focuses on local seafood, organic produce, and superfoods. The hotel also features the Agua Spa, offering Meso-American-inspired holistic treatments and daily yoga classes. Adjacent to the hotel, LUUMA Gathering Bar provides a vibrant atmosphere with gourmet dishes and signature cocktails, while Le Bazaar Boutique showcases bohemian and tropical fashion from local designers. Casa Las Tortugas embodies a harmonious blend of comfort, design, and nature, making it an ideal retreat for travelers seeking a tranquil beachside experience.
What To Do in Holbox
One of the best things to do here is to take a boat tour to see the bioluminescence at night—watching the water glow as you move through it is pure magic. During the day, rent a bike or a golf cart and explore the island, stopping at hidden beaches and colorful murals.
Where To Eat in Holbox
The culinary scene in Holbox is as vibrant as the island itself. Enjoy a range of dining experiences, from traditional wood-fired lobster pizza to creative breakfast and brunch spots and trendy tapas bars where fresh, local ingredients shine in every dish.
Roots Pizza a la Leña
Food is a big deal in Holbox, and you can’t leave without trying the island’s famous lobster pizza, a renowned culinary specialty of Holbox. This unique dish combines freshly caught lobster with traditional pizza ingredients, reflecting the island’s rich seafood offerings. Roots Pizza a la Leña is celebrated for its wood-fired lobster pizza in a charming outdoor garden. Visitors should be aware that lobster fishing in Holbox is regulated, with the season running from July through February to promote sustainability. Enjoying lobster pizza during these months ensures the freshest and most responsibly sourced experience.
Painapol
Painapol is a popular breakfast and brunch spot in Holbox, known for its fresh and flavorful offerings. The café’s menu features a variety of options, including vibrant smoothie bowls adorned with fresh fruits and edible flowers, avocado toast, and hearty sandwiches. Vegan and vegetarian dishes are also available, catering to diverse dietary preferences. The café’s inviting ambiance and attentive staff make it a must-visit destination for breakfast or brunch in Holbox.
Luuma
And for dinner, Luuma is a must—this trendy tapas bar serves craft cocktails and dishes packed with flavor in a beautiful garden setting. Situated across from Casa Las Tortugas, the menu features a variety of options, including kebabs, pakoras, spring rolls, tacos, tostadas, and tamales, catering to diverse palates. Complementing the cuisine, Luuma offers an array of signature cocktails inspired by regional fruits and spices such as coconut, cinnamon, passion fruit, watermelon, pineapple, and honey. The establishment shares its space with Le Bazaar Holbox, a boutique showcasing fashion, art, and home accessories from emerging artists, enhancing the venue’s bohemian charm. With its enchanting atmosphere and commitment to quality, Luuma provides a memorable dining experience for visitors to Holbox.
El Cuyo: The Hidden Gem
And last but certainly not least, if you’re looking for a true escape, El Cuyo is the place. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs of Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum, El Cuyo remains a tranquil fishing village characterized by its unspoiled beaches and authentic local culture. The village’s commitment to sustainable tourism ensures it retains its serene atmosphere, free from the large-scale developments common in Quintana Roo. El Cuyo is about three hours from Playa del Carmen and two and a half from Tulum, making it the perfect spot to unwind.
Where to Stay in El Cuyo
El Cuyo offers a handful of charming accommodations that reflect its unspoiled, laid-back vibe. From remodeled traditional homes to modern beach hotels with communal spaces and direct access to nature, these stays emphasize local authenticity and comfort in a serene setting.
Mero Mero Hotel
Mero Mero Hotel is a boutique accommodation situated in the main square of El Cuyo, steps from the beach. This remodeled house blends Yucatecan style with eclectic contemporary architecture, offering guests a unique and comfortable stay. The hotel features ten air-conditioned rooms, each with a private bathroom and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy the communal rooftop area, which includes a fully equipped kitchen, social space, and an infinity pool with stunning ocean views. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to local restaurants, the public pier, and the town’s central plaza.
LunArena Boutique Beach Hotel
LunArena Boutique Beach Hotel offers 12 uniquely designed suites, each providing views of the sea, lagoon, jungle, or central area featuring a small pool. Every suite has a private bathroom and a kitchen stocked with basic utensils. Guests can dine at the on-site restaurant, which serves à la carte breakfast and dinner on a terrace overlooking the natural surroundings. The hotel hosts the TROPIKAL Kite, Foil, and Wing School for adventure enthusiasts, offering lessons and equipment rentals for kitesurfing, kitefoiling, and wingfoiling, with exclusive discounts for guests. LunArena’s thoughtful design and prime location make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking relaxation and outdoor activities in a serene environment.
Casa Cuyo
Another solid option is Casa Cuyo, a charming guesthouse with a laid-back vibe and direct beach access. Known for its welcoming vibe and strong connection to the local kitesurfing community, this eco-conscious spot blends rustic charm with modern comforts. Hammocks swing under shady palapas, surfboards lean against weathered wooden walls, and sunsets steal the show every evening. Guests can enjoy on-site kitesurfing lessons or yoga sessions or relax with a cold drink while soaking up the tranquil vibes of this hidden gem on the Yucatán coast.
What To Do in El Cuyo
El Cuyo is a top destination for kitesurfing, thanks to its consistent winds and shallow waters. Even if you’ve never tried it before, there are plenty of schools where you can take lessons. If kitesurfing isn’t your thing, take a nature tour to see flamingos, dolphins, and even the occasional crocodile in the nearby Río Lagartos Biosphere Reserve.
Where To Eat in El Cuyo
Dining in El Cuyo celebrates fresh seafood and authentic Mexican flavors. Options range from casual beachside cafés to family-run eateries serving time-honored recipes, and every meal offers a true taste of the region’s local heritage.
Naia Café
Dining in El Cuyo is all about fresh seafood and local flavors. Start your day at Naia Café, a beachside spot in a serene garden. Their menu features a variety of health-conscious options, including poached eggs with lentils, avocado toast with smoked salmon, and smoothie bowls topped with fresh fruits and granola. Patrons consistently praise the café’s exceptional coffee and friendly service, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors.
Casa Mangle
For a casual but delicious lunch, head to Casa Mangle. The restaurant is known for showcasing authentic Mexican cuisine in a relaxed, beachside setting. Renowned for its traditional dishes, including birria, pozole, and chile rellenos, the food at Casa Mangle is all prepared with recipes passed down through generations.
El Chile Gordo
And finally, we have to mention dinner at El Chile Gordo, because it’s not only great food, it’s a great experience. El Chile Gordo offers a distinctive dining experience, featuring a nine-course tasting menu that takes diners on a culinary journey through Mexico’s diverse regional flavors. The intimate setting centers around a communal table facing an open kitchen, fostering interaction and a sense of community among guests. Each meticulously crafted dish showcases traditional recipes with a contemporary twist, reflecting the chef’s dedication to authenticity and innovation. Operating exclusively from Thursday to Saturday, with a single seating at 7:00 PM, El Chile Gordo accommodates a limited number of guests per evening, ensuring personalized attention. Reservations are essential to secure a spot at this sought-after establishment.
Ready for Your Weekend Escape?
Bacalar, Holbox, and El Cuyo each offer something unique: lagoon views, island vibes, or remote tranquility. No matter which one you choose—or if you decide to hit all three—you’re in for a weekend of adventure, relaxation, and delicious food. So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and prepare for an unforgettable weekend getaway!
