Lake Chapala
Lago de Chapala
Mexico's largest freshwater lake. The lakeside promenade, old pier and seafood eateries of Chapala town are a weekend getaway for Guadalajara residents.
Lake Chapala stretches about 80 km from east to west. Chapala town on the north shore, about 45 km from Guadalajara, attracts large numbers of North American retirees thanks to its spring-like climate. The lakeside boulevard (Malecón) has a century-old pier, colorful small boats and snack stalls. Boats can take you to the islands in the lake, including Scorpion Island (Isla del Alacrán) and Mezcala Island, a site from the War of Independence. On weekends you can eat fried whitefish and charales, small local fish. It is about 1 hour from Guadalajara's long-distance bus station, and is often visited on the same day as Ajijic.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Ajijic
- Tonalá
- San Pedro Tlaquepaque
- Arena Coliseo Guadalajara
- Templo de San Francisco & Capilla de Aranzazú
- Plaza de los Mariachis
- Mercado San Juan de Dios (Mercado Libertad)
- Hospicio Cabañas