Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos: Complete Travel Guide 2025

The journey from Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos offers travelers a dramatic transition from resort luxury to authentic Mexican artisan culture. This scenic 70-kilometer route along Baja California's Pacific coast connects the bustling tourist hub of Los Cabos with the tranquil artistic community of Todos Santos, providing an opportunity to experience two distinctly different sides of Baja Sur's diverse character.

Route Overview and Distance

Geographic Connection

Distance and Direction:

• Total distance: 70 kilometers (43 miles) northwest of Cabo San Lucas
• Driving time: 1-1.5 hours via Highway 19
• Direction: Northwest along Pacific coast through desert landscapes
• Elevation changes: Minimal elevation variation, mostly coastal plains

Scenic Highlights:

• Desert landscapes: Iconic Sonoran Desert flora including giant cardon cacti
• Pacific Ocean views: Dramatic coastal vistas along western sections
• Mountain backdrops: Sierra de la Laguna mountains visible to the east
• Agricultural areas: Organic farms and traditional Mexican ranches

Planning your journey from resort luxury to artistic authenticity? LovoTrip helps you organize your Cabo to Todos Santos adventure.

Highway 19 Route Description

Primary Route: Highway 19 (Carretera Transpeninsular) provides the main connection between Cabo San Lucas and Todos Santos.

Road Characteristics:

• Surface: Well-maintained two-lane highway
• Traffic: Generally light except during peak tourist seasons
• Services: Limited gas stations and services along route
• Signage: Clear directional signs in Spanish and some English

Transportation Options

Rental Car (Most Popular)

Advantages of Self-Driving:

• Complete flexibility: Stop at viewpoints, beaches, and attractions
• Cost-effective: For groups and longer stays
• Convenience: Direct route without transfers or schedules
• Exploration: Access to remote beaches and side roads

Rental Considerations:

• Insurance: Full coverage essential for international travel
• Fuel planning: Fill up in Cabo, limited gas stations on route
• Navigation: GPS recommended though route is straightforward
• Vehicle type: Standard cars adequate, SUV preferable for beach access

Rental Companies in Cabo:

• Hertz: International brand with comprehensive fleet
• Avis: Reliable service with good customer support
• Budget: Competitive rates and adequate selection
• Sixt: European company with modern vehicles
• Local agencies: Often better rates but varying service quality

Driving Route Details:

1. Exit Cabo San Lucas: Follow signs to Todos Santos/La Paz
2. Highway 19 North: Main route through desert landscape
3. Intermediate stops: Cerritos Beach, Pescadero
4. Todos Santos arrival: Clear signs into town center

Taxi Services

Official Taxi Transportation: Fixed-rate taxi service available from Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos.

Service Details:

• Cost: $80-120 USD for one-way trip
• Duration: 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic
• Capacity: Standard taxis accommodate up to 4 passengers
• Payment: Cash preferred (pesos or USD)
• Return arrangements: Can arrange return pickup or one-way only

Booking Methods:

• Hotel concierge: Most reliable booking method
• Airport taxi stands: Available but more expensive
• Local taxi companies: Direct booking with established operators
• Negotiate return: Often better rates when booking round-trip

Private Transfer Services

Premium Transportation: Professional transfer services offer comfortable, reliable transportation.

Service Providers:

• Cabo Airport Transportation: Established transfer company
• Gray Line Los Cabos: Tour company offering transfers
• Private operators: Various local companies with good reputations

Pricing Structure:

• Standard vehicle: $100-150 USD for up to 4 passengers
• SUV/Van: $120-180 USD for larger groups
• Luxury vehicles: $180-250 USD with premium amenities
• Round-trip discounts: Often 15-20% savings for both directions

Service Features:

• Professional drivers: Licensed, experienced drivers
• Door-to-door service: Hotel pickup and delivery
• Flexible timing: Departure based on your schedule
• Luggage handling: Assistance with bags and equipment

Public Bus Service

Limited Public Transportation: Basic bus service connects Cabo San Lucas with Todos Santos.

Bus Service Details:

• Operator: Local bus companies with basic service
• Schedule: 2-3 departures daily (schedule varies)
• Cost: $8-12 USD per person
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours with intermediate stops
• Comfort: Basic seating, variable air conditioning

Considerations:

• Limited schedule: Few daily departures
• Language barrier: Spanish helpful for navigation
• Luggage space: Limited space for large bags
• Reliability: Schedules can vary, not recommended for tight timelines

Tour Transportation

Day Tour Options: Many tour companies offer Cabo-Todos Santos excursions including transportation.

Tour Features:

• Round-trip transportation: Comfortable vehicles with air conditioning
• Guided experience: Local guides with cultural and historical information
• Multiple stops: Often include Cerritos Beach and other attractions
• Group experience: Meet other travelers with similar interests

Tour Operators:

• Cabo Adventures: Comprehensive tour operator
• Wild Canyon: Adventure and cultural tours
• Gray Line: Established tour company with good reputation

Pricing:

• Half-day tours: $60-90 USD per person
• Full-day tours: $80-120 USD per person
• Includes: Transportation, guide, some meals/activities
• Excludes: Personal purchases, tips, additional activities

Route Attractions and Stops

Cerritos Beach

Surfing Paradise: Popular beach stop approximately 30 minutes from Cabo San Lucas.

Beach Features:

• Surfing: Consistent waves suitable for beginners and intermediates
• Beach clubs: Several establishments offering food, drinks, and rentals
• Swimming: Generally safe swimming conditions
• Scenic beauty: Wide sandy beach with dramatic desert backdrop

Activities:

• Surf lessons: Professional instruction available
• Beach dining: Fresh seafood and Mexican cuisine
• Sunset viewing: Excellent west-facing beach for sunsets
• Photography: Dramatic landscapes perfect for photos

Pescadero

Agricultural Community: Traditional Mexican farming town along the route.

Local Attractions:

• Organic farms: Tours of sustainable agriculture operations
• Local markets: Authentic Mexican produce and crafts
• Traditional architecture: Historic Mexican colonial buildings
• Cultural experiences: Glimpse of rural Mexican life

Playa Los Cerritos

Beach Access Point: Beautiful Pacific coast beach with excellent facilities.

Beach Amenities:

• Parking: Adequate parking for beach access
• Restaurants: Beachfront dining with ocean views
• Surf shops: Equipment rental and instruction
• Accommodations: Small hotels and vacation rentals

Todos Santos Overview

Artistic Community

Cultural Characteristics: Todos Santos has evolved into Mexico's premier artistic community while maintaining authentic Mexican character.

Art Scene:

• Galleries: Numerous galleries featuring local and international artists
• Studios: Working artist studios open to visitors
• Cultural events: Regular art festivals and cultural celebrations
• Artisan workshops: Traditional crafts and contemporary art

Historic Significance:

• Colonial architecture: Well-preserved 19th-century buildings
• Mission history: Historic church and mission remains
• Sugar plantation heritage: Historic hacienda and sugar mill ruins
• UNESCO consideration: Potential World Heritage site designation

Hotels and Accommodations

Boutique Properties: Todos Santos specializes in small, unique accommodations.

Notable Hotels:

• Hotel California: Legendary establishment (possibly inspiring Eagles song)
• Posada La Poza: Luxury eco-resort with lagoon setting
• Todos Santos Inn: Historic hacienda conversion
• Casa Bentley: Boutique bed and breakfast

Accommodation Types:

• Boutique hotels: 10-20 rooms with personalized service
• Bed & breakfasts: Family-run properties with local character
• Vacation rentals: Private homes and casitas
• Eco-lodges: Sustainable properties emphasizing nature

Dining Scene

Culinary Excellence: Despite its small size, Todos Santos offers sophisticated dining options.

Notable Restaurants:

• Café Santa Fé: Italian cuisine with local ingredients
• Tres Gallos: Contemporary Mexican with organic focus
• La Casita Tapas Bar: Spanish-inspired small plates
• Shut Up Frank's: Casual American-Mexican fusion

Local Specialties:

• Organic produce: Farm-to-table dining emphasizing local ingredients
• Fresh seafood: Pacific catch prepared with Mexican techniques
• Artisanal products: Locally made cheeses, breads, and preserves
• Mexican cuisine: Authentic regional dishes with contemporary presentation

Planning Your Visit

Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay

Day Trip from Cabo:

• Timing: 6-8 hours allows thorough exploration
• Transportation: Rental car most flexible for day trips
• Activities: Gallery walking, lunch, beach time
• Return timing: Allow for sunset viewing before return

Overnight Stay:

• Extended exploration: More time for galleries, beaches, and relaxation
• Cultural immersion: Evening cultural events and local atmosphere
• Sunrise/sunset: Experience both without travel time pressure
• Supporting local economy: Overnight stays benefit local businesses more

Best Times to Visit

Seasonal Considerations:

Peak Season (December-April):

• Perfect weather: Ideal temperatures for walking and outdoor activities
• Gallery openings: Art season with special events and exhibitions
• Higher prices: Accommodation and dining premium pricing
• Advance booking: Reservations essential for accommodations

Shoulder Season (May, November):

• Good weather: Still excellent conditions with fewer crowds
• Better value: Moderate pricing for accommodations and services
• Local atmosphere: More authentic experience with fewer tourists

Summer Season (June-October):

• Hot weather: Very hot daytime temperatures
• Lower prices: Significant savings on accommodations
• Limited hours: Many businesses reduce hours during hottest months
• Hurricane season: Potential for tropical storms

Cost Considerations

Transportation Costs:

• Rental car: $40-80 USD per day plus fuel ($15-25 round trip)
• Taxi: $80-120 USD one way
• Private transfer: $100-180 USD round trip
• Tour: $60-120 USD per person including guide

Activity Costs:

• Gallery admission: Most galleries free, some charge $5-10 USD
• Dining: $15-40 USD per person for lunch
• Shopping: Artwork prices vary widely ($20-2000+ USD)
• Beach activities: Free beach access, equipment rental $20-40 USD

Travel Tips and Recommendations

Practical Advice

Timing Recommendations:

• Morning departure: Leave Cabo 9-10 AM for optimal timing
• Lunch planning: Arrive in Todos Santos for lunch (12-1 PM)
• Gallery hours: Most galleries open 10 AM-5 PM
• Return timing: Leave by 4-5 PM for Cabo sunset arrival

What to Bring:

• Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets require good footwear
• Sun protection: Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses essential
• Camera: Numerous photo opportunities throughout journey
• Cash: Some establishments prefer cash payments
• Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated in desert climate

Cultural Considerations

Respectful Tourism:

• Support local artists: Purchase directly from artists when possible
• Respect photography: Ask permission before photographing people
• Cultural sensitivity: Appreciate authentic Mexican culture respectfully
• Environmental awareness: Practice leave-no-trace principles

Language:

• Spanish basics: Learn basic greetings and courtesy phrases
• Art terminology: Helpful for gallery visits and artist interactions
• English availability: Many galleries and restaurants have English-speaking staff

Conclusion

The journey from Cabo San Lucas to Todos Santos offers travelers an authentic Mexican cultural experience just an hour from resort luxury. This artistic oasis provides a perfect contrast to Cabo's tourist atmosphere, showcasing Mexico's rich artistic heritage in a stunning Pacific coast setting.

Whether visiting for a day trip or overnight stay, Todos Santos rewards travelers with genuine cultural experiences, excellent art galleries, sophisticated dining, and beautiful beaches. The scenic drive through Baja's desert landscape creates anticipation for discovering this unique community where creativity flourishes against a backdrop of natural beauty.

Plan adequate time for exploration, bring respect for local culture, and prepare to discover why Todos Santos has become one of Mexico's most beloved artistic destinations. This magical town proves that some of Mexico's greatest treasures lie just off the beaten path, waiting for travelers willing to venture beyond resort boundaries.