Mexico's Largest Freshwater Lake Is A Haven For Perfect Weather And Delicious Seafood

Between the relaxing beaches of Jalisco and Michoacán's mystical Janitzio Island, in the western part of Mexico, you'll find the largest freshwater lake in the country. The whopping 283,328-acre-wide Lake Chapala is well-known by the locals for its fishing culture and calm shores. With cooler, fresher weather than the average Mexican beach, Lake Chapala attracts a lot of regional tourism. You will see locals bathing in its calm waters, which are perfect for swimming and water sports due to the location's low wind levels.

The area of Lake Chapala was once inhabited by the Coca people, with records showing the word 'mariachi' may have come from their culture and suggesting a string instrument called the vihuela was invented by the Cocas. Lake Chapala's lore is further enriched by the fact that famed writers such as D.H. Lawrence have frequented its shores. Lawrence was even inspired to write "The Plumed Serpent" while staying at Lake Chapala. The town surrounding the lake has a certain old-world charm about it, with cobblestone streets, colorful blossoming gardens, a mountainous valley dotted with waterfalls, and Indigenous sacred sights nestled in its midst. However, perhaps the most notable thing about Lake Chapala is its international reputation for having one of the best climates in the world. This destination stays consistently fresh all year round, enjoying what many have called an 'eternal spring.'

Chapala has become known as a regular relaxation ground for the 'Tapatios,' the people of Guadalajara. During the weekends, the town and lakeside become more lively, with an influx of visitors flocking to Malecón de Chapala (the lakeside promenade) to enjoy the tranquil scenery. The pier is full of family-friendly activities, with numerous ice cream vendors, arts and crafts, and restaurants. Look out for the local artisanal ceramic blood cups, originally made by the Indigenous Coca people who would throw them into the lake, full of blood, as an offering to satisfy the old gods. Today, the cups sometimes appear in fishing nets.

Although Chapala has an idyllic sleepy fishing village vibe, there is plenty to do. Annual festivities in the lead-up to Mardi Gras see Chapala explode into a thriving carnival. With a parade beginning on the main street of Chapala and activities lasting over a week, you'll find food and shows during this holiday celebration. During the festival, look out for the traditional Zayacos, men and boys wearing bearded masks, and for the Escaramuza riders, honoring Mexico's women rodeo professionals. Recommended restaurants in the Lake Chapala area are Isla Cozumel and La Palapa del Guayabo, both of which serve excellent fresh seafood dishes.

The lake has three islands, with boat tours offered to all of them. Isla de los Alacranes (Scorpion Island) is a popular destination. For those of you wary of the name, it is named such because its shape is similar to that of a scorpion, not because it's a breeding ground for scorpions! While on the boat to Isla de los Alacranes, you will witness the sheer vastness of Lake Chapala and get incredible mountainside views. Isla de Los Alacranes also has places to eat, making it perfect for a lunchtime jaunt. For a family-friendly vacation destination, the island has a pretty chapel dedicated to la Virgen de Guadalupe, Mexico's most famous religious icon. Isla Mezcala and La Isla del Presidio (Prison Island) are also popular day trips from Lake Chapala.

On the edges of the lake, you'll also find numerous balnearios (thermal spas), including Monte Coxala, Spa Termal Tlalocan, and Hotel Balneario San Juan Cosalá, all approximately a 35-minute drive from Chapala Centro and Malecón de Chapala. These spas are famous amongst the "Tapatios" and prove the region is the ultimate relaxation center for miles around. With perfect weather, picturesque towns, calm waters, and tranquil mountain scenery, Lake Chapala is the perfect place to put your feet up and forget the outside world.