Your First Step to a Perfect Los Cabos Vacation
Transportation in Cabo San Lucas is the first decision you’ll make that shapes your vacation experience. Whether you’re landing at Los Cabos International Airport or planning day trips around the region, knowing your options helps you travel with confidence.
Quick Overview: Transportation Options in Cabo San Lucas
| Transportation Type | Best For | Typical Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Shuttle | Budget travelers, solo/couples | $13-40 per person | Multiple stops, wait time at airport, no car seats |
| Private Transfer | Families, groups, direct service | Starting at $84 per vehicle | Direct to destination, car seats available, grocery stops |
| Public Bus | Very budget-conscious | $2-3 per ride | Frequent service between towns, local experience |
| Water Taxi | Beach access | ~$15 one-way | Marina to beaches, scenic route |
Los Cabos sits at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. The region includes two main towns: Cabo San Lucas, known for its active marina and nightlife, and San Jose del Cabo, a quieter town with an art district and historic downtown. Between them stretches the 20-mile Tourist Corridor, lined with resorts and beaches. Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) sits about 8 miles from San Jose del Cabo and 29 miles from Cabo San Lucas.
Many travelers face uncertainty after landing at SJD Airport. The terminal can feel chaotic, with vendors and salespeople competing for your attention. Recent traveler reports show that arranging transportation on arrival often leads to longer wait times, higher costs, and occasional communication difficulties. Booking in advance removes this stress. You’ll have a driver waiting with your name on a sign, ready to load your luggage and answer questions in English.
The drive from the airport to your hotel sets the tone for your trip. A smooth, pre-arranged ride means you start your vacation relaxed, not negotiating prices or waiting in lines. SJD Taxi offers both shared shuttles for budget-conscious travelers and private transfers for families who want direct service, flexible stops, and child car seats. All vehicles are licensed and insured, with bilingual drivers who know the area.
This guide walks through every transportation option in Los Cabos, from airport pickups to day trips. You’ll learn when to use each service, what to expect, and how to book with confidence.
Navigating Your Arrival: Airport Transportation in Cabo San Lucas
Arriving at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) is the first step in your Baja adventure. SJD Airport has two commercial terminals and a private jet terminal. Once you clear immigration and collect your luggage, you’ll enter a busy area where various transportation providers and even timeshare salespeople might try to get your attention. It’s a lot to take in after a flight!
This is where pre-arranged airport transportation really shines. Instead of navigating the crowds and potentially dealing with aggressive solicitations, a driver from SJD Taxi will be waiting for you. This professional approach helps you avoid confusion and makes for a smooth start to your vacation. Your driver will hold a sign with your name, assist with your bags, and speak English, making communication effortless.
Shared Shuttles: The Budget-Friendly Choice
If you’re looking to save some pesos and don’t mind a bit of extra travel time, shared shuttles are a smart option for transportation in Cabo San Lucas from the airport. They offer an economical way for individuals, couples, or small groups to get to their accommodation.
How do shared shuttles work? You’ll be grouped with other passengers heading in the same general direction. This means there might be a wait time at the airport, typically ranging from 15 minutes to an hour, as the shuttle fills up. Once on the road, shared shuttles make an average of 2-4 stops along the way to drop off other travelers before reaching your destination.
It’s important to know that shared shuttles require a seat for each person, including children, and child car seats are generally not permitted. If you’re traveling with little ones who need a car seat, a private transfer is a better fit. Also, shared shuttles have limitations on where they can deliver. They cannot enter private, gated communities directly, so you might be dropped off at the security gate instead.
Despite these minor considerations, shared shuttles offer great value. A seat in a 10-passenger shared shuttle can cost between $13-$40 US dollars per person each way, with the exact price depending on your destination within Los Cabos. You can often find great deals and plan your budget effectively. Find shuttle coupon codes.
Private Transfers: Direct, Comfortable, and Flexible
For those who value speed, privacy, and convenience, a private transfer is the way to go for transportation in Cabo San Lucas. With this option, your SJD Taxi vehicle is exclusively for your party. There’s no waiting at the airport for other passengers, and you’ll head directly to your hotel, villa, or private residence.
Private transfers offer bilingual drivers, providing clear communication throughout your ride. You’ll have ample space for all your luggage, and the vehicles are recent models, providing a comfortable journey. A standout perk of private transfers is the complimentary beer or water offered to each passenger, setting a relaxed tone right from the start. For families or those planning to stock up on supplies, private transfers also offer the option for a grocery stop along the way, a service not available with shared shuttles. Plus, child car seats are available upon request for private transfers, making travel with kids much easier and safer.
Whether you’re staying at a resort like Grand Solmar Land’s End, Marquis Los Cabos, or a private villa in Pedregal, SJD Taxi’s private transfers deliver you right to your front door, even within gated communities. This level of personalized service starts from around $84 US dollars per vehicle, offering excellent value for groups and families. Learn about private driver services.
Getting Around the Los Cabos Area
Once you’ve settled into your accommodation, you’ll want to explore the stunning Los Cabos region. The 20-mile (33 km) Tourist Corridor connects the vibrant town of Cabo San Lucas with the more laid-back San Jose del Cabo. This stretch of highway is lined with world-class resorts, beautiful beaches, and golf courses.
Navigating between these two towns and other popular spots is simple with pre-arranged services. The drive between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. SJD Taxi offers convenient point-to-point transfers for specific destinations or hourly services if you prefer more flexibility for your day.
If you want to double-check distances, driving times, or get your bearings before you land, the official Los Cabos tourism site has a helpful transportation and accessibility overview that many travelers use when planning their stay. You can review it here: Los Cabos transportation overview.
Exploring with SJD Taxi: Local Rides and Day Trips
For local rides, dinner outings, or simply exploring the area at your own pace, SJD Taxi’s private driver service is an excellent choice. You can easily book local rides as needed or arrange for an hourly service. This means having a dedicated vehicle and a professional, bilingual driver at your disposal.
Imagine a night out in downtown Cabo San Lucas without worrying about parking or hailing a taxi afterward. Or perhaps you’re interested in exploring real estate in the Corridor or East Cape area. Your private driver acts as a knowledgeable local guide, providing personalized attention and taking the stress out of navigating unfamiliar roads. This service is perfect for sightseeing, visiting multiple attractions, or enjoying the lively nightlife safely and comfortably. Get a quote for a private driver in Cabo.
The Local Experience: Public Transportation in Cabo San Lucas
For the truly budget-conscious and adventurous traveler, Los Cabos offers public transportation. The local public bus system runs frequently between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, with stops along the Tourist Corridor. These buses are a popular choice for residents and can offer a glimpse into daily life in Baja California Sur.
The one-way fare between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is very affordable, typically costing between $2 and $3 US dollars, and the ride takes about an hour. Buses run approximately every 15 minutes from early in the morning until late at night. You can catch these buses at designated stops or flag them down along the main highway. When traveling to beaches along the Corridor, just tell the driver your destination. For longer day trips to places like Todos Santos or La Paz, other intercity bus lines are also available.
If you want to see current schedules or plan a bus route beyond the main corridor, you can look at regional listings such as horariodebuses.com, which many travelers use as a general reference. Always confirm exact times locally, as schedules can change.
Water Taxis for Coastal Views
For a unique and scenic way to explore the famous landmarks of Cabo San Lucas, consider a water taxi. These charming boats depart regularly from the marina and offer a fun perspective of the coastline. They are particularly popular for trips to iconic spots like Lover’s Beach, Divorce Beach, and the busy Medano Beach.
While not metered, the rates for water taxis are generally reasonable. Previous travelers have reported paying around $15 US dollars for a one-way trip to these popular destinations. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the ocean breeze, get close to the Arch of Cabo San Lucas, and access beaches that are otherwise difficult to reach.
Planning Day Trips and Excursions
Los Cabos is more than just its two main towns; the surrounding Baja California Sur region offers a wealth of experiences. From the bohemian charm of Todos Santos to the vibrant marine life of Cabo Pulmo, there are many adventures waiting beyond your resort.
Todos Santos, a designated “Pueblo Mágico” (Magic Town), is a delightful escape with art galleries, boutique shops, and a relaxed atmosphere. Cabo Pulmo, a national marine park on the East Cape, is a diver’s and snorkeler’s paradise. The East Cape itself boasts pristine, uncrowded beaches and a more rugged landscape.
SJD Taxi can help you plan these excursions with custom itineraries and comfortable private transfers. Having a dedicated driver allows you to explore at your own pace, without the constraints of tour schedules or the hassle of renting a car.
Intercity Travel with SJD Taxi
For those longer journeys to explore Baja’s gems, SJD Taxi offers private transfers to various destinations, including La Paz, Todos Santos, Los Barriles, and other locations. Traveling in a private vehicle ensures comfort, especially on longer drives, and allows you to enjoy the scenery without worrying about directions or road conditions. It’s an ideal solution for families or groups who want a smooth, stress-free day trip. Book a private transfer to La Paz.
Tips for Booking Your Cabo Ride
Booking your transportation in Cabo San Lucas in advance is a simple step that improves your travel experience. When you book with SJD Taxi, they monitor your flight for delays or cancellations, making sure a vehicle is ready for you, even if your arrival time changes.
Regarding cancellations, SJD Taxi generally offers a full refund for any local shuttle or private transportation service canceled up to 72 hours before your scheduled airport transfer. You can submit your cancellation request via their website or by calling their customer service line during business hours.
While same-day reservations are sometimes available, they are based on availability and might not always be favorable, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking in advance guarantees your ride and often secures better pricing.
Special Requests and Group Needs
SJD Taxi understands that every trip is unique. If you’re opting for a private transfer and want to make a quick stop at a grocery store to stock up on snacks and drinks, that can be arranged. This is a popular request for travelers staying in villas or condos. For families traveling with young children, child car seats can be provided for private transfers for safety and compliance.
For larger groups, such as those traveling for weddings or corporate events, SJD Taxi specializes in coordinating arrivals and departures. They have over a decade of experience managing complex logistics for various group sizes. They can provide custom quotes for unique itineraries, so everyone arrives at their destination smoothly. Get a custom quote for group transportation.
Safety, Reliability, and Support
Los Cabos is widely recognized as a safe destination in Mexico, ranking among the top three safest in the country for tourists. SJD Taxi prioritizes your safety and peace of mind. Their vehicles are licensed and insured, and their drivers are professional, bilingual, and experienced in the Los Cabos area. They are knowledgeable about local roads and resorts, providing a safe and efficient trip.
For any questions or assistance, SJD Taxi offers 24/7 customer support via phone, email, or live chat. This round-the-clock availability means help is always just a call or click away, whether you have a last-minute change or need assistance during your trip.
Your Perfect Cabo Ride Awaits
Choosing the right transportation sets the mood for your vacation. Whether you want a budget-friendly shared shuttle or a private vehicle for your family, planning ahead with SJD Taxi means peace of mind from the moment you land. Services include airport pickups, complimentary drinks, and flexible private drivers for exploring Los Cabos and beyond.