How to Get from Cabo to Todos Santos

Everything you need to know about getting from Cabo to Todos Santos in one quick, condensed guide.

Just an hour away from the luxury resorts and vibrant nightlife of Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos offers a welcome escape—a laid-back haven of surf breaks, art galleries, and boutique hotels set against the stunning backdrop of Baja’s Pacific coast.

This charming Pueblo Mágico has long drawn creatives, surfers, and in-the-know travelers looking for a slower pace without sacrificing style.

Whether you prefer the flexibility of a rental car, the ease of a private transfer, or the adventure of taking the local bus, there are several ways to get from Cabo to Todos Santos, each with its own perks.

Over the years, our team has tested them all, from the scenic drive along Highway 19 to the most efficient shuttle services. Here’s the ultimate guide to making your journey seamless—so you can spend less time figuring out logistics and more time soaking up the magic of Todos Santos.

Is Todos Santos Worth Visiting?

I’ve spent a lot of time in Todos Santos, and it’s a place that always draws me back. The mix of desert landscapes, ocean views, and a thriving creative community gives it an energy that feels worlds away from the busy resorts of Cabo.

While many visitors opt for a Todos Santos day trip from Cabo, staying the night lets you experience the town at a slower, more immersive pace. You can catch a quiet sunrise surf session, explore the galleries before the crowds roll in, or unwind with a mezcal cocktail as the sun sets over the Pacific.

Accommodation here is on a much smaller, boutique scale compared to Cabo, with standout stays like Paradero Todos Santos and the newly opened Kimpton Mas Olas offering a more intimate and design-forward experience. If time allows, it’s well worth lingering a little longer to truly take in the town’s unique charm.

How to Get from Cabo to Todos Santos

Cabo to Todos Santos by Rental Car

For the best experience, renting a car is by far the most convenient way to get from Cabo to Todos Santos. The scenic 47 mile (76km) drive along Highway 19 is straightforward, taking just over an hour, and having your own vehicle means you can explore Todos Santos at your own pace.

From Cabo airport, the journey is a little longer, taking 1 hr 20 minutes.

This is how I personally get around Baja and how I recommend everyone to, given how spread out everything is in the state, or at least once you get out of Cabo.

While the town of Todos Santos itself is walkable, many of its highlights—like Playa Cerritos for surfing, Punta Lobos for sunset views, and the vibrant local farms and ranches—are spread out, making a car essential for effortless exploration in town. Even if you’re heading to Todos Santos for a day, I would still advise on renting a car.

We highly recommend booking with Discover Cars, our trusted rental partner known for its great deals and comprehensive full-coverage insurance policy, ensuring you’re fully protected on the road. If you want to experience the best of Todos Santos and its surrounding landscapes without the hassle of taxis or waiting for public transport, a rental car is the way to go.

Cars can be rented from reputable providers both at Cabo International Airport and Downtown Cabo San Lucas.

Cabo to Todos Santos by Private Transfer or Taxi

For a seamless and stress-free journey, a private transfer is one of the best ways to get from Cabo to Todos Santos—especially if you’re looking for a comfortable, door-to-door service. Whether you’re arriving at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) or heading out from your hotel or resort in Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo, private transfers offer a hassle-free way to reach Todos Santos without the need to navigate rental car logistics or Cabo to Todos Santos transportation.

Most private transfer services offer luxury SUVs, air-conditioned vans, or even premium vehicles for a more upscale experience. Some companies also provide bilingual drivers who can share local insights along the way, turning your ride into a mini-tour of Baja’s stunning Pacific coastline.

This is a great option for small groups, families, or travelers who simply want a smooth, pre-arranged ride without worrying about directions, small change for paying tolls or driving in unfamiliar terrain. Many services can also accommodate additional requests, such as stops at scenic viewpoints or even quick grocery runs before arriving in Todos Santos.

For a reliable private transfer, check out this highly rated VIP SUP transfer, which I use every time I don’t rent a car. We also highly recommend using Welcome Pickups for reputable airport transfers and rides in Mexico, which offer competitive rates and personalized service. Booking in advance ensures a hassle-free start to your Todos Santos adventure.

For those looking for a ride from Todos Santos to Cabo, I highly recommend Ricardo who can be booked here for a smooth and reliable ride on the way back to the city.

Getting to Todos Santos by Bus

If you’re traveling on a tight budget, taking the local bus from Cabo to Todos Santos is the cheapest option—but it’s not the most convenient. The trip takes about an hour and a half to two hours, depending on stops, and while the buses are reliable, they don’t offer the flexibility of having your own vehicle.

To catch the bus, head to the Autobuses Aguila station in either Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo. Buses run multiple times a day and are generally comfortable, with air conditioning and decent seating. Tickets can be purchased at the station or sometimes from the driver, and fares are very affordable, usually under $10 per person.

The main downside is that the bus drops passengers off at the station in Todos Santos, which is near the town center but not close to the beaches or more remote attractions. Since the area is quite spread out, getting around without a car can be tricky, and taxis are limited and can be expensive.

Unless you’re sticking strictly to the town center, taking the bus isn’t the best option. If you plan to explore beyond the plaza—whether that’s checking out the beaches, boutique hotels, or surrounding nature—you’ll likely wish you had your own transport.

Renting a car or if you don’t drive, booking a tour for the day will make your trip far easier and more enjoyable.

Taking a Tour to Todos Santos from Cabo

I generally recommend staying in Todos Santos for at least one night- the town just has too much to do in a day, but if you only have one day to spare in your itinerary, taking a tour to Todos Santos, is an easy way to explore this charming coastal town without having to plan the logistics yourself.

These guided excursions typically include round-trip transportation, an experienced guide who shares insights into the town’s history and culture, and an itinerary that ensures you experience the highlights of Todos Santos in a single day.

Most tours visit key landmarks such as the historic Hotel California, the town’s many boutiques and art galleries, and scenic coastal viewpoints. Some also include unique experiences like visits to artisan workshops, tastings at organic farms, or even surf lessons at nearby beaches.

Private tours are better as they can often be customized, allowing for a more flexible schedule and the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path spots at your own pace.

There are many reputable tour operators in Cabo that offer a day trip to Todos Santos. Some even combine the visit with other Baja attractions, such as a stop at Playa Cerritos for a swim or surf session, or a visit to a local tequila distillery for a tasting. Here are some of the best Todos Santos tours from Cabo, I recommend:

Top Tips for Visiting Todos Santos

• If you’re driving to Todos Santos from Cabo, have cash on you in Mexican pesos for tolls. Mexican highway tolls cannot be paid by card and you’ll need local pesos and not US dollars to pay it. Make sure to stop at an ATM at Cabo International airport or in town before you begin the journey.

• Uber is available in Cabo so you could also get to Todos Santos this way, but note that not all drivers will be willing to do the journey. It is worth noting too that Uber drivers will need to meet you outside the airport (they are prohibited from coming inside the terminal) and some resorts also don’t allow them onsite. Make sure to check before ordering one.

• Todos Santos, it’s best luxury properties, the beaches, restaurants are all very spread out and it really helps to have a car, not just for getting there but also to get around, regardless of whether you’re heading out for a day or longer.

• The journey to Todos Santos from Cabo is very scenic, so you might want to make some photo stops on the way. One of my favorites is Secret Rocks Beach, a delightful little beach that’s always deserted.

Further Reading

So, now that you’ve made it to Todos Santos—whether just for the day or a longer stay—what’s next? I won’t dive into that here because we’ve already covered it extensively. From the best places to eat and stay to where to shop and what to do, we’ve got plenty of in-depth guides to help you plan the perfect getaway. Check them out below and start crafting your ideal trip.

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