Cocalitos is a shallow lakeside swim spot on the south end of Bacalar Lagoon, famous for two things: a network of wooden swings and hammocks over turquoise water, and one of the few accessible living stromatolite reefs on Earth — bacterial colonies that have been growing in this lagoon for 3.5 billion years.
How much is Cenote Cocalitos in 2026?
150 MXN ($7.50 USD) per adult, 100 MXN per child. Cash only. The fee supports community conservation of the stromatolites. Open daily 9 AM–5 PM.
The Stromatolite Rule
Stromatolites are living. Stepping on them — or wearing chemical sunscreen near them — kills them. The site marks swim zones with ropes. Stay inside the ropes. Reef-safe sunscreen is required and the staff checks at the gate.
What's On-Site
- Hammocks and swings over shallow turquoise water
- Wooden walkways for stromatolite viewing
- Small restaurant with ceviche and beer
- Bathrooms and changing rooms
- Kayak and SUP rental
Book a Bacalar Lagoon Tour
Boat tours that stop at Cocalitos, the Pirate Channel, and Cenote Negro. Most include lunch and gear.
Frequently Asked Questions
It's 4 km south of Bacalar town. Taxi runs about $3 USD each way. Rent a bike for the day ($8 USD) and ride the lakeside road — pleasant and flat.
Two to four hours is the sweet spot — enough for the swing photos, a swim, lunch, and the stromatolite walk. Make it a full day if you also kayak.
Different. Cocalitos has the swings and stromatolites. Cenote Azul is deeper and dramatic. Both are worth a stop on a multi-day visit.
