TODOS SANTOS FAQ'S
Todos Santos's nearest major gateway is Los Cabos International Airport (IATA code SJD), located approximately 90 minutes away by car. The most convenient way to reach Todos Santos from Los Cabos is by private transfer, which offers direct, door-to-door service to your accommodation. Pre-arranged transport services can be booked with us as part of your vacation package add-ons, ensuring a stress-free arrival. For private transport pricing as it relates to your particular Tripmasters booking, please confer with us directly; we're available by e-mail and telephone 24 hours a day.
Taxi rates from Los Cabos typically range from $100-$150 USD, depending on the size of the vehicle and service level. Shared shuttle services are available from Los Cabos International Airport and offer a more budget-friendly option. These shuttles cost approximately $30-$50 per person but typically require advance reservations and may include stops to drop off other passengers along the way.
Public transportation in Todos Santos is limited, and most visitors rely on walking or taxis to explore the town and its surroundings.
Within the town center, walking is the best way to get around, as most galleries, restaurants, and historic sites are clustered within a compact, pedestrian-friendly area. However, for trips to beaches like Playa Cerritos or Punta Lobos, a taxi is necessary.
Taxis are readily available and can be arranged through hotels or called from central locations. Most taxis do not have meters, so fares should be negotiated in advance. A short trip within town typically costs 100-150 MXP ($5-$8), while rides to nearby beaches or resorts range from 250-500 MXP ($12-$25).
Yes, Todos Santos is a very walkable town, especially within the historic center, where cobblestone streets and colorful colonial buildings create an inviting atmosphere for exploration. Many of the town's top attractions, like the Mission Santa Rosa, Centro Cultural Todos Santos, and numerous art galleries, are within walking distance of one another.
However, some key points of interest, such as Playa Cerritos, Punta Lobos, and the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve, are too far to reach on foot. For these, visitors will need a hired car or taxi. The terrain in Todos Santos is relatively flat, making it easier to navigate than hillier destinations. That said, comfortable walking shoes are still recommended, especially for those exploring the town's unpaved side streets and nature trails.
Todos Santos is considered one of the safest towns in Baja California Sur, with a welcoming atmosphere and a strong focus on tourism. Crime rates are significantly lower than in larger cities, and violent crime is extremely rare. The town has a relaxed, artsy vibe that attracts artists, surfers, and eco-conscious travelers, and its close-knit community helps maintain a safe environment.
As with any destination, visitors should exercise basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings, especially at markets or during crowded festivals. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, is uncommon but not impossible. At night, the historic center is safe for walking, with well-lit streets and plenty of open cafés and bars. However, it's always advisable to use a taxi or a car for trips outside the town center after dark, particularly for visits to remote beaches.
The currency in Mexico is the Mexican peso (written as MXP, MXN, or $ like American dollars). In tourist situations, usually $ is not used as it confuses the tourist into thinking the price is in American dollars. MXP or MXN versus USD are used in these cases.
The preferred currency to use in Todos Santos is the Mexican peso for both purchases and for tipping. While some hotels, restaurants, and boutiques accept U.S. dollars, exchange rates offered by businesses are often less favorable than bank rates. In restaurants, a 10-15% tip is standard, while hotel staff, guides, and taxi drivers generally appreciate small tips in pesos. ATMs are widely available in Todos Santos, with major banks like Santander and BBVA offering reliable exchange rates. Most mid-range and high-end establishments accept credit and debit cards, but smaller businesses, market vendors, and taxis may require cash payments, so it's a good idea to carry small bills.
English is widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, galleries, and other tourist-friendly establishments in Todos Santos, making it relatively easy for non-Spanish speakers to navigate. Many locals who work in tourism, particularly those catering to international visitors, are fluent or conversational in English.
However, outside of the tourist areas, English proficiency is less common, particularly in small shops, local markets, or when interacting with taxi drivers. Learning a few basic Spanish phrases or using a translation app can help enhance interactions, especially when visiting more remote parts of Baja California Sur.
Meal times in Todos Santos follow the traditional Mexican dining schedule, with lunch (comida) served between 1:30 and 4:00 p.m. and dinner (cena) typically starting around 8:00 p.m. Breakfast (desayuno) is usually light and taken between 7:00 and 10:00 a.m., while brunch is popular on weekends.
Reservations are recommended for upscale or highly sought-after restaurants, particularly during peak tourist seasons (December-April) and major festivals. Restaurants like Jazamango and Hierbabuena are among the most popular and should be booked at least a few days in advance for prime seating. Casual eateries and local spots generally do not require reservations, but arriving early during peak hours can help avoid long waits.
Shopping in Todos Santos is a unique experience, offering a mix of local craftsmanship, bohemian fashion, and fine art. The Mercado de Artesanías is the best place to find handwoven textiles, ceramics, silver jewelry, and locally made leather goods. Upscale boutiques like Nomad Chic specialize in Baja-inspired clothing and accessories, while Etnica is a must-visit for collectors of Mexican folk art and handcrafted home décor.
What is nightlife like in Todos Santos?The nightlife in Todos Santos is laid-back and artistic, with a mix of live music venues, rooftop bars, and cantinas offering an inviting evening scene. Cantina Tequila's Sunrise, rumored to have inspired Hotel California, is a must-visit for its cocktails and live music. For a more stylish setting, La Morena offers a great selection of mezcal and craft cocktails. Those looking for unforgettable ocean views will enjoy the Sky Lounge at Guaycura Boutique Hotel, where guests can sip drinks while watching the sunset over the Pacific. Most venues close by midnight, making for a lively but relaxed evening experience.