Uncover the lakeside gem of Ajijic, Jalisco, Mexico with my guide to the best things to do and more.
Ajijic isn’t the Mexico most international visitors picture. There are no all-inclusive resorts, beach clubs or packed sightseeing itineraries. Instead, this colourful village on the shores of Lake Chapala moves at its own pace, where mornings begin with coffee in the plaza, afternoons are spent wandering cobbled streets, and evenings end with a stroll along the lakeside malecón.
Having lived in Jalisco for several years, I’ve returned to Ajijic more times than I can count. It’s one of those places that’s easy to recommend, whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend from Guadalajara or a slower side of Mexico that most never experience.
In this guide, I’ll share the best things to do in Ajijic, where to stay, my favorite restaurants and cafés, and everything you need to plan your visit to one of Jalisco’s most charming towns.
Read more: The Complete Guide to Tlaquepaque, Jalisco
How to Get to Ajijic, Jalisco, Mexico
Ajijic is located on the northern shores of Lake Chapala, around 40 minutes south of Guadalajara and just 30 minutes from Guadalajara International Airport (GDL). Due to its proximity to Mexico’s second-largest city, getting here is straightforward.
Most arrive into Jalisco by flying into Guadalajara International Airport, which has excellent direct connections to cities across the US, Canada and Mexico. From the airport, the easiest and most comfortable option is to take an Uber, or an authorized airport taxi directly to your hotel in Ajijic. The journey takes around 30 minutes, depending on traffic.
If you’re already staying in Guadalajara, reaching Ajijic is just as simple. An Uber or taxi takes around 40 to 50 minutes, making it an easy day trip, although I’d recommend staying at least a couple of nights to enjoy the town’s slower pace and beautiful lakeside setting. If you’re travelling on more of a budget, regular public buses also connect Guadalajara with Ajijic throughout the day.
Getting Around
One of the best things about Ajijic is that you don’t need a car. The village is compact and easy to explore on foot, with most cafés, restaurants, boutiques, galleries and the picturesque malecón all within a 10 to 15-minute walk. If you want to venture a little further, taxis are inexpensive and easy to find, while local buses run regularly between Ajijic, Chapala, San Juan Cosalá and the other lakeside towns.
Unless you’re planning to explore more of Jalisco, I’d skip hiring a car altogether.
Where to Stay in Ajijic
Ajijic has a handful of charming boutique hotels and locally owned stays that perfectly suit the town’s laid-back atmosphere. You won’t find international luxury brands or ultra-luxurious resorts here, but you will find intimate properties with plenty of character, lake views and warm Mexican hospitality. These are my top picks.
Nimue Marina Residence & Hotel Boutique – The closest thing to a luxury stay in Ajijic, with spacious contemporary suites, a lakeside setting, spa, infinity pool and marina. Ideal if you’re after resort-style facilities while still being a short drive from the village centre.
Casa del Sol Inn – A beautiful boutique bed and breakfast in the heart of Ajijic, just a short walk from the plaza and malecón. Expect colourful Mexican design, leafy courtyards, a swimming pool and one of the warmest welcomes in town.
La Reserva Chapala – A peaceful collection of modern villas and suites overlooking Lake Chapala, offering plenty of space, privacy and beautiful lake views. It’s a great option for longer stays or anyone looking for a quieter base just outside the centre.
Hotel Boutique Sol y Luna – A stylish adults-focused boutique hotel with contemporary rooms, a small spa, swimming pool and a relaxed atmosphere just a few minutes from Ajijic’s main attract
Things to Do in Ajijic, Jalisco
There aren’t many major attractions in Ajijic, but that’s never been the reason to visit. Walk the cobbled streets, relax by Lake Chapala, pop into galleries and cafés, and enjoy the slower pace of life.
Relax on the Plaza Principal
Ajijic’s Plaza Principal is the heart of the village and the perfect place to slow down for an hour or two. Grab a coffee from one of the cafés overlooking the square, find a bench beneath the trees and watch daily life go by.
You’ll usually find locals chatting, musicians performing, children playing and plenty of people simply enjoying the relaxed pace that makes Ajijic so appealing.
Pop into the churches
Ajijic has a couple of beautiful churches that are worth stepping inside while you’re exploring the village. The striking Parroquia San Andrés Apóstol, with its twin bell towers overlooking the main square, is the town’s main church and has been at the centre of local life for generations.
A short walk away, the smaller Capilla Nuestra Señora del Rosario offers a quieter atmosphere and a glimpse into Ajijic’s deep-rooted religious traditions. Even if you’re not particularly interested in churches, both are worth a quick visit as you walk around for their architecture and peaceful interiors.
Walk the Malecon at Sunset
The malecón is one of Ajijic’s best-loved spots, especially as the sun begins to set over Lake Chapala. Take a slow stroll along the waterfront, watch fishermen heading back in, and find a bench to enjoy the changing colours across the water. It’s a simple way to end the day, and one of the moments that captures Ajijic and Lake Chapala at its best.
Wander the Streets
One of the best things to do in Ajijic is simply wander without much of a plan. The cobbled streets are lined with colourful houses, blooming bougainvillea, inviting cafés and independent boutiques selling everything from handmade jewellery and ceramics to locally made clothing, homewares and gourmet food products. It’s an easy place to spend a few hours browsing and seeing what catches your eye as well as a nice way to get to know the small town.
Immerse Yourself in Art and Culture
Ajijic has long attracted artists, and you’ll see their influence all over town. Colorful murals brighten many of the streets, telling stories of local history, traditions and everyday life, while vibrant street art pops up in unexpected corners.
Half the fun is wandering around and discovering these works for yourself, with almost every street revealing another splash of colour or hidden mural. If however you do prefer to wander around with a local, this Walking Tour Experience in Ajijic Mexico lead by an expat is the experience to book.
Hike to El Tepalo
If you’re looking to stretch your legs or do something a little more active, head into the hills behind Ajijic and hike to El Tepalo. This well-known trail climbs into the mountains above town, passing through woodland and seasonal streams before reaching a small waterfall during the rainy season.
It’s a great way to escape the village for a few hours and enjoy sweeping views over Lake Chapala. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking outside the cooler winter months. If you’re hoping to see the waterfall, it’s worth asking locally about conditions first, as it can be little more than a trickle towards the end of the dry season.
Take a Boat Trip on Lake Chapala
Getting out on the water is one of the best ways to appreciate the scale of Lake Chapala, Mexico’s largest freshwater lake. Short boat trips depart from nearby Chapala and occasionally from Ajijic, offering scenic cruises across the lake or trips to Isla de los Alacranes, a small island with restaurants and lake views.
Even if you don’t make it to the island, an hour on the water is a relaxing way to see the lakeside towns from a different perspective.
Visit a Thermal Spa
One of my favourite things to do in Ajijic and the surrounding area is spend a day at one of the nearby thermal spas. Just a short drive away in San Juan Cosalá, you’ll find several spa resorts fed by natural hot springs, making it the perfect place to unwind after exploring the village.
My go-to is Spa Termal Tlalocan, where you can soak in a series of mineral-rich thermal pools overlooking Lake Chapala. It’s a wonderfully relaxing way to spend an afternoon and one of the experiences I recommend most in the area.
Where to Eat and Drink
Ajijic has a surprisingly good food scene for a town of its size, with everything from cosy breakfast cafés to creative Mexican restaurants and relaxed bistros. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely brunch or a memorable dinner overlooking the lake, these are some of the best restaurants in Ajijic.
Café Grano Café – One of my favourite spots for local specialty coffee, homemade pastries and a relaxed breakfast or light lunch.
El Gato Feo – A laid-back café serving excellent coffee, fresh breakfasts and generous sandwiches in a leafy courtyard.
Los Gringos Café – A long-time local favorite for breakfast, with hearty portions, great coffee and everything from pancakes to Mexican classics.
Teocintle Maíz – One of the standout dinner spots in town, celebrating Mexican ingredients with beautifully presented, seasonal dishes and an inventive menu.
Scallion Ajijic Bistro – A charming neighborhood bistro serving refined international cuisine in an intimate setting, perfect for a slower evening meal.
Ajijic Tango – Fantastic steakhouse with Argentine cuts.
Casa Linda – A popular restaurant in town with classic Mexican dishes and fresh seafood, making it a great choice for a long lunch or dinner.
Save on Pinterest
