The Itzáes people, who came here after the Yucatán city of Chichén Itzá was destroyed, settled Tayazal. Tayazal was probably centered on the island town of Flores, but the ruins from the Itzáes are spread around the peninsula. Tayazal was one of the last Mayan capitals, holding out against the Spanish until 1697.

The ruins here date to the Classic period and are mostly overgrown with vegetation. A few stelae have been recovered, but many of the structures remain excavated. There is also a wonderful lookout, or mirador, on top of a temple mound. Set within the trees, this mirador provides excellent views of Flores and Lake Petén Itzá.

You can take a boat from Flores to the village of San Miguel. The Mayan site is about 1 mile (2 km) outside town.