
Ah, Todos Santos. The name alone sounds like a place you should be right now instead of scrolling on your phone. If you’re in Cabo San Lucas and you’re thinking, “Hey, I should check out that cool little artsy town I keep hearing about,” congratulations—you have great instincts.
But first, the logistics. How far is Todos Santos from Cabo San Lucas? And more importantly, how do you get there without getting lost, stranded, or accidentally adopting a stray dog (which, let’s be honest, wouldn’t be the worst thing)?
The Distance: Just Far Enough to Feel Like an Adventure
Let’s cut to the chase—Todos Santos is about 46 miles (74 km) northwest of Cabo San Lucas. In normal human time, that means about an hour’s drive. If you’re coming from San José del Cabo (where the airport is), add another 30 minutes to your journey.
It’s close enough for an easy day trip, but far enough that once you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into a different world—one with cobblestone streets, world-class tacos, and a vibe that makes you want to quit your job and become a painter, even if your only artistic experience is doodling in meetings.
The Best Ways to Get to Todos Santos
There are a few ways to get from Cabo to Todos Santos, and which one you choose depends on your budget, your patience, and how much you enjoy being in control of your own destiny.
1. Rent a Car (aka, The Freedom Method)
If you like the idea of rolling down the windows, blasting your road trip playlist, and stopping at random beaches along the way, renting a car is your move. The drive is straightforward and scenic, following Highway 19 north along the Pacific coast.
What to Know Before You Go:
- The road is well-paved and safe, but keep an eye out for occasional speed bumps and slow-moving trucks.
- There are gas stations along the way, but fill up in Cabo just to be safe.
- Mexican car rental agencies have a love-hate relationship with hidden fees, so read the fine print before booking.
- Drive during the day if you’re not used to Baja roads—nighttime driving can be unpredictable, thanks to wandering cows and potholes that appear out of nowhere.
2. Take the Bus (For the Budget-Friendly Traveler)
If renting a car sounds like too much effort (or too much money), you’re in luck—there’s a reliable and comfortable bus that runs between Cabo San Lucas and Todos Santos. EcoBajaTours is the main service, and tickets are around $10-$15 USD each way.
What to Expect:
- The buses are air-conditioned and comfortable—way better than the crowded city buses you might be picturing.
- They depart from the main bus terminal in Cabo and take about 90 minutes with a few stops along the way.
- It’s a great way to see the landscape without worrying about directions or driving.
- You’ll need to check the schedule in advance, as departures aren’t every hour.
If you’re feeling extra local, you could take a colectivo (a shared van), but those can be unpredictable, and you might end up with a goat in your lap.
3. Book a Private Shuttle (For the “I Want Zero Stress” Crowd)
If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to show up and have everything handled for you, a private shuttle or tour is the way to go. These are great if you’re traveling with a group or just want to kick back with a margarita the second you arrive.
Expect to Pay:
- Around $80-$150 USD each way for a private ride.
- More if you book a fancy tour that includes stops at hidden beaches or tequila tastings (worth it).
The benefit? No navigating, no stress, and you can take a nap on the way back.
What to Do Once You Get to Todos Santos
Now that you’ve made it, what’s next?
- Wander the town: Todos Santos is full of boutique shops, art galleries, and colorful colonial buildings that beg to be photographed.
- Eat your way through town: Hit up Tacos Santo Chilote or Jazamango for some of the best food in Baja.
- Visit Hotel California: No, the Eagles never stayed there, but it’s a fun stop anyway.
- Go to the beach: Playa Los Cerritos and Playa Punta Lobos are stunning and way less crowded than Cabo’s beaches.
Final Thoughts: Is Todos Santos Worth the Trip?
Absolutely. If Cabo is the party, Todos Santos is the chill after-party where you sip mezcal under the stars. It’s artsy but not pretentious, laid-back but full of things to do, and just close enough to Cabo to be an easy escape.
So rent a car, hop on a bus, or book that shuttle—Todos Santos is calling, and you should probably answer.