Visiting Todos Santos, Baja is a journey—both in distance and experience—that rewards the effort with unforgettable charm. My most recent trip began with a flight over the rugged Sierra de la Laguna mountains into the San José del Cabo Airport. As the plane descended, I looked down at the arid landscape colliding with the turquoise oceanfront. The strip of resorts in San José del Cabo was unmistakable, and our smooth landing brought us closer to the adventure.
The nearby surf beach called Cerritos Beach at sunrise. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Navigating the Arrival
Disembarking was quick, immigration, as expected, took some patience, but collecting luggage went smoothly. Mexico's unique system includes a randomized search check: pressing a button determines whether you’ll get a green light and walk through or a red light for a bag search. This time, I got lucky—green light. No search, no delay.
Having visited Baja over 40 times, I’ve always found this ritual amusing. If you’re unlucky and get the red light, you might face another hour’s wait. But once you’re through, the airport’s bustle greets you, with vendors and travelers creating a lively scene. The mix of smells, sounds, and sights is a sensory overload, with everything from street tacos to souvenir trinkets vying for your attention. Stepping outside, I sought a taxi for the next leg of the journey—the drive to Todos Santos.
The Long Drive to Todos Santos
Convincing a taxi driver to make the hour-long trip isn’t always straightforward. In this part of Mexico, this is considered a lengthy drive. After some negotiating, I secured a ride for $100 USD. Prices typically range from $100 to $150, and opting for the toll road is worth every penny. It shaves about 20 minutes off the drive and can save an hour when traffic around Cabo San Lucas is heavy.
The toll road winds through the Baja landscape, offering glimpses of the ocean and stretches of desert. Cacti of all shapes and sizes dominate the scenery, and the occasional roadside shrine adds a touch of local culture to the view. As we sped along, I attempted a conversation with the driver in my rusty Spanish. Despite the language barrier, we managed a pleasant exchange. He shared stories of his family and life in the region, and I told him about my frequent visits to Baja.
Todos Santos, is known as an up and coming “artsy” town with a relaxed vibe. Surf spots like Cerritos Beach and Las Palmas are nearby, but the town itself offers a slower pace. It’s a place where creativity thrives, and the connection between locals and the natural world is evident.
The Charm of Todos Santos
Todos Santos feels like a world away from the bustling tourist hubs of Cabo. Its streets are lined with boutique shops, galleries, and delightful eateries. My favorite activity is wandering the town square, where you might catch locals dancing or families enjoying ice cream from Rocco, a beloved nearby shop. The iconic Hotel California—which claims to be the inspiration for the Eagles' famous song—draws plenty of visitors. It’s a must-see for first-timers, even if just for a photo or a drink at the bar.
Beyond the square, the town offers surprises at every turn. Artisan markets showcase handmade goods, from colorful ceramics to woven textiles. Restaurants serve up dishes that blend traditional Mexican flavors with modern twists, and street vendors offer the bacon wrapped hotdogs and elote. Walking through the town, you’ll find murals and public art that reflect the vibrant spirit of the community.
Looking back at the coastline of Todos Santos while fishing. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Scenery on the Way
During the drive, the landscape outside the cab window seemed sparse at first: dirt, cactus, and the occasional cow. But a closer look reveals a thriving ecosystem. Beneath the cactus, small critters scurry about. Hawks perch atop the tall plants, scanning the ground for prey. Along the coastal stretches, keep an eye out for whales breaching during migration season. These moments of discovery make the journey as rewarding as the destination.
The road to Todos Santos also passes through small towns, each with its own character. Brightly painted houses and roadside fruit stands add bursts of color to the otherwise muted desert tones. It’s worth asking your driver to stop for a fresh coconut or some locally made sweets—simple treats that highlight the flavors of Baja.
One of the many dirt roads worth exploring just outside of Todos Santos. Photo by Dalton Johnson
Arriving in Todos Santos
The hour passed quickly, and before long, we arrived in Todos Santos. I tipped the driver, thanked him, and stepped into the quiet charm of the town. My hotel would be my base for the week as I explored the best of Baja. Whether enjoying fresh seafood, browsing local art, or catching a surf session, Todos Santos always delivers a memorable experience.
The evenings in Todos Santos are especially magical. As the sun sets, the town’s streets take on a golden glow. Locals gather in the square, musicians play softly, and the cool desert breeze carries the scent of nearby blooms. It’s a time to slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the simple beauty of this special place.
Getting there might take some effort, but it’s always worth it. Baja’s beauty, culture, and laid-back atmosphere make every trip a worthwhile adventure. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, Todos Santos has a way of leaving a lasting impressio
