Las Coloradas | A Pink Beach Lagoon in Mexico
• Posted June 21 • 2024.
When you see pictures of this place, your amazement is huge because the water is indeed pink—it really is pink! It’s not an effect from a camera or some special paint that the locals poured into the water to create an incredible tourist attraction. No, the truth is that the water of Las Coloradas is as pink as it appears in the photographs. Amazing, right?
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Where are Las Coloradas Located?
Las Coloradas is actually a small fishing village located on the north coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, in the southeast of Mexico. Without exaggeration, Las Coloradas truly seems like a destination straight out of a dream, one that you should visit at least once in your life. It's undeniable that this picturesque place has gained worldwide fame thanks to its incredible pink lagoons, a stunning natural phenomenon that attracts photographers and travelers from all over the world. But what makes these waters so unique and special? Join us on a journey through this magical corner of Mexico.
How to Get to Las Coloradas?
To reach Las Coloradas, you'll need to take a flight to the city of Mérida, the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán, where various options are available. Once there, you can rent a car or book a tour to this magical place. Las Coloradas is about a three-hour drive from Mérida, and while it is a somewhat long journey, the views and the unique experience you will live are fully worth it. There is not much availability of public transportation to that area, so we reiterate that the best option is to rent a car or hire a guided tour. The first option offers more freedom, but the second provides a greater experience and knowledge of the place.
Are Las Coloradas a Beach or a Lagoon?
Las Coloradas are not exactly a beach or a lagoon in the traditional sense. Rather, they form a series of very shallow salt lagoons. Although the landscape might indeed make you think it’s a beautiful beach due to its proximity to the sea and its sandbanks, the specific characteristics are more akin to those of a salt lagoon.
Why is the Water in Las Coloradas Pink?
"Las Coloradas" literally means "the colored ones," and it seems to be a very accurate and fitting name for these otherworldly-hued waters. However, as always, science has an explanation for the surreal pink colors in this magical place. The intense pink color of the lagoons is due to the high concentration of salt, microorganisms, and algae such as Dunaliella salina. These microorganisms are safe for humans and produce a red pigment to absorb sunlight, which in turn tints the waters a beautiful and harmonious pink.
The Salt Industry in Las Coloradas
As mentioned, Las Coloradas features saline lagoons, so naturally, salt production is an important part of the local economy. Here, the salt pans are operated traditionally, and the mounds of white salt create a spectacular and vibrant contrast with the pink lagoons. Among other activities, visitors can learn firsthand about the evaporation and crystallization processes used to extract salt from seawater. Additionally, this method has been practiced for generations and, as we can see, has become not just an economic activity but a true tourist attraction in itself.
Activities to Do in Las Coloradas
Las Coloradas is not like Cancun or the Riviera Maya, and it's important to emphasize this. This is a small and fragile site; however, it offers visitors a good variety of tourist activities, all centered around the natural beauty and local culture. The main attraction is undoubtedly the observation of the unique landscape presented by the pink waters alongside the contrasting presence of the salt banks. Tourists can walk along designated trails for this purpose and enjoy unique views ideal for photography. It is also possible to see groups of pink flamingos feeding in the pink waters, creating a redundantly beautiful and very pink landscape. Fun fact: Did you know that flamingos are actually white, naturally white? They obtain their pink color precisely by eating organisms like brine shrimp and other carotenoid-rich organisms such as algae and plankton, but especially brine shrimp, a type of crustacean very common in saline aquatic environments like the lagoons of Las Coloradas.
Beyond observing the striking nature of Las Coloradas, visitors can participate in guided tours where they will learn a bit about the history of the place as well as the salt production process in the region that we mentioned earlier. It's easy to notice that there isn't a wide variety of activities in this place, but the ones that are available will undoubtedly make anyone spend a magical day and create unforgettable memories.
Swimming Prohibited in Las Coloradas
We understand, the temptation to enter these incredible pink waters is undoubtedly huge, but it is strictly prohibited, truly PROHIBITED. This is to protect the fragile ecosystem of these saline lagoons. The presence and human activity in the water would only alter the chemical and biological composition of the lagoons, contaminating them and harming microorganisms, such as algae and brine shrimp, which among other elements maintain the distinctive pink color of the water. Remember, even though it may look like one, it is not a beach, and swimming in its waters is not allowed. If you want to swim, the sea is very close by, where you can do so without harming this delicate ecosystem that creates these incredible pink waters. It is important to follow all local guidelines and respect conservation regulations. We recommend bringing sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, as the area can be quite hot and devoid of shade.
Tips for Visiting Las Coloradas
- Protect Yourself from the Sun: The sun can be extremely strong in this region, especially near the salt flats where there is little shade. Don't forget to bring high SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat (not a cap), and sunglasses. Trust me, you'll be thankful.
- Hydration: As in any hot place, it's vital to carry water or a rehydrating solution with you. In Mexico, a drink called "Electrolito," similar to Gatorade, is very popular. It's important that you bring enough of whatever drink you choose in case there aren't many purchasing options available at the location.
- Appropriate Footwear: Please wear comfortable shoes, but not sandals; opt for closed shoes instead. Remember, it's not a beach, so the terrain can be rocky and salty, which might be very uncomfortable or even harmful to your feet.
- Respect the Natural Environment: We've already mentioned that swimming in the lagoons is prohibited to protect the ecosystem, so it's important to respect all signage and barriers. Moreover, it's important to mention... do not touch or contaminate the water.
- Best Time to Visit: In places with intense sun, like this, it's always best to visit during the early morning hours or around sunset, when the sun is less intense and thus avoiding the extreme midday heat. Also, as mentioned in this article, these hours are the best for taking photos at the beach.
- Guided Tour: Personally, I'm not a big fan of guided tours; however, in this case, I consider it a good option because it not only transports you to and from Las Coloradas but also provides valuable information about the history, culture, and ecosystem of the place. It's not necessary, but I do recommend it.
In conclusion, visiting Las Coloradas is a unique and different experience. As we have discussed, do not expect the life or experience of Cancun or any other tourist destination in the Caribbean. This is a small and picturesque place that has a unique natural phenomenon and has managed to make the most of it while also protecting it for entire generations. Therefore, it is essential to follow and respect the local guidelines because preserving such a beautiful place is undoubtedly very worthwhile. Whether you are interested in photography, the beauty of nature, or simply want to see something different, this is a place that will surely capture your heart and imagination, creating lasting memories in your mind, forever.
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