Your Insider’s Guide to Todos Santos
Things to do in Todos Santos range from exploring art galleries and local boutiques to surfing beginner-friendly waves and releasing baby sea turtles at sunset. This small Pacific-side town offers a refreshing contrast to the busy energy of nearby Cabo San Lucas.
Top Things to Do in Todos Santos:
- Explore Art Galleries & Shops: Browse local boutiques and over a dozen art galleries.
- Visit Nearby Beaches: Surf at Playa Los Cerritos or watch the sunset at Playa La Pastora.
- Dine at Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Try Jazamango or The Green Room for fresh, local flavors.
- Release Baby Sea Turtles: Participate in conservation efforts from December through March.
- Hike Scenic Trails: Find the beauty of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains.
Todos Santos sits about a 90-minute drive north of Los Cabos International Airport. The town earned its Pueblo Mágico designation thanks to its historic charm and thriving artist community. While Cabo San Lucas buzzes with nightlife, Todos Santos moves at a slower pace. The desert landscape meets the Pacific Ocean here, creating a stunning backdrop for galleries, organic farms, and surf spots.
The town attracts couples looking for a romantic escape, art lovers drawn to its creative scene, and travelers who want to experience a more authentic side of Baja California Sur. Most visitors rent a car to explore the surrounding beaches, but pre-booked airport transportation can make your arrival seamless.
A Guide to the Best Things to Do in Todos Santos Baja California
Todos Santos is a welcome break from the energy of Cabo San Lucas. As a designated Pueblo Mágico, it’s known for its blend of desert roads, creative culture, and wild coastline. This enchanting small town on the Pacific side of Baja California Sur offers a unique mix of surf culture, artistic energy, and untamed natural beauty. It’s a place where golden desert meets the wild Pacific, where boutique hotels blend seamlessly into the landscape, and where long, lazy afternoons stretch into tequila-infused evenings.
Culture, Art, and Beaches: Things to Do in Todos Santos Baja California
Founded as a mission town in 1724, Todos Santos’s designation as a “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Town) speaks to its authentic charm and vibrant atmosphere. The town is a haven for artists, surfers, and travelers seeking a quieter experience.
The downtown area is a treasure trove of cultural attractions. You can wander through Plaza Centro, visit the historic Iglesia Mision Todos Santos, and explore local markets. The famous Hotel California, while not the inspiration for The Eagles’ song, remains an iconic stop for a margarita and a photo.
Art Galleries and Artisan Shops
Todos Santos is renowned for its art scene, boasting over a dozen galleries. Spending a few hours admiring the artwork is a delightful way to soak in the town’s creative spirit. For unique souvenirs and locally made products, exploring the chic boutiques is a must. Some favorites include Nomad Chic, Saguaro, and Etnica, all offering a mix of fashion, home goods, and artisan crafts.
Beaches Near Todos Santos
The coastline near Todos Santos is breathtaking, but it is important to note that many of the beaches are not safe for swimming due to strong currents and undertows. However, they offer spectacular views, great surfing, and relaxing strolls.
- Playa Los Cerritos: About a 15-minute drive south of Todos Santos, this beach is a popular spot for beginner surfers. Surf lessons and equipment are available from local surf schools. It is also one of the safer options for swimming, though caution is always advised.
- Playa La Pastora: This scenic beach is known for its incredible sunset views. The iconic beach bar, The Green Room, is located here, offering barefoot dining right on the sand.
- Punta Lobos: This beach is a popular spot for a scenic hike. You can watch local fishermen launch their panga boats and take in the rugged coastal scenery. The beach area here is considered a better option for swimming with caution compared to other local beaches.
Where to Eat: Restaurants and Cafes in Todos Santos
Todos Santos has blossomed into a surprising culinary destination, offering a range of dining experiences from casual taco spots to upscale farm-to-table restaurants. Baja cuisine is characterized by bold flavors, fresh seafood, and a blend of rustic and refined elements.
Must-Try Restaurants:
- Jazamango: A star in the local culinary scene, this open-air, farm-to-table restaurant is located at the edge of town. It features a wood-fired menu with ingredients often sourced from its own garden. Reservations are recommended.
- The Green Room: Located on La Pastora Beach, this iconic spot offers barefoot dining right on the sand. It is perfect for sunset drinks and fresh seafood.
- Oystera: Set inside a renovated sugar mill, Oystera is a fashionable oyster bar known for its delicious cocktails and unique design. It offers an liftd seafood experience, with chocolate clams being a regional specialty worth trying.
- Taller 17: A popular coffee shop near the plaza, famous for its pastries and excellent coffee.
Unique Experiences: Memorable Things to Do in Todos Santos Baja California
Todos Santos offers several unique and seasonal activities that connect visitors with the natural beauty and conservation efforts of Baja California Sur.
Baby Sea Turtle Release
From early December to late March, you can witness the incredible sight of baby sea turtles making their way to the ocean. Local conservation groups, such as the non-profit Tortugueros Las Playitas, work to protect the nests of Olive Ridley, Leatherback, and Black sea turtles. Daily hatchling releases often occur around sunset, and visitors are welcome to watch and learn about these amazing creatures. It is an especially moving activity for families. Remember to follow all guidelines provided by the volunteers and consider making a donation to support their vital conservation efforts.
Whale Watching
Every year, from November to March, humpback and grey whales migrate to the warm waters of the Baja Peninsula. In Todos Santos, you can often spot them from the beach. For a closer encounter, many tours depart from Cabo San Lucas, about an hour away. An overnight trip to Magdalena Bay is also a popular option for a more immersive whale watching experience.
Hiking and Outdoor Activities
The area around Todos Santos offers a range of hiking and outdoor adventures amidst stunning desert and ocean landscapes. The Punta Lobos hike is one of the most popular, offering beautiful vistas of the coast. For more advanced hikers, the Sierra de la Laguna mountains offer challenging trails, and guided hikes are recommended. You can also find local companies offering horseback riding tours along the cliffs and shoreline, a perfect way to experience a Baja sunset.
Planning Your Todos Santos Trip
Getting to Todos Santos is straightforward with a bit of planning. The town is safe, friendly, and easy to enjoy.
Getting To and Around Todos Santos
The primary gateway to Todos Santos is the Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). From SJD, it’s about a 90-minute drive north on a well-maintained toll road. Be sure to have cash (pesos or USD) for the toll. Many of the best beaches and restaurants are spread out and often accessed via dirt roads.
For a smooth arrival, SJD Taxi provides private and shuttle transportation services from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) directly to Todos Santos. Private transfers can include grocery stops and child car seats, which is helpful if you’re traveling with kids or planning to stock up on supplies before reaching town. Shared shuttles are also available as a budget-friendly option.
Where to Stay for Every Traveler
Todos Santos offers a diverse range of accommodations, catering to different budgets and preferences. You’ll find everything from luxurious, design-forward hotels to charming boutique stays and budget-friendly guesthouses. Many visitors also opt for vacation rentals for a more local experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic escape, a surf-centric stay near the beach, or a quiet retreat in town, there’s an option for you.
Best Time to Visit & Final Tips
The best time to visit Todos Santos is generally from November to April. During this period, the weather is warm and pleasant, with cooling Pacific breezes making it ideal for outdoor activities. The peak tourist season is December and January, so consider visiting in the shoulder months for fewer crowds.
Safety in Todos Santos: Todos Santos is considered a very safe destination with a strong community feel. As with any travel, be aware of your surroundings and secure your valuables. For official travel advisories, you can consult the U.S. Department of State website.
Health Tip: Do not drink tap water in Mexico. Stick to bottled or filtered water to stay healthy during your trip.
Booking Ahead: During the high season, popular accommodations and restaurants can fill up quickly. Booking your hotels and making dinner reservations in advance, especially for larger groups, is a good idea.
For reliable and comfortable transportation from the airport, with options for grocery stops and child car seats on private transfers, consider booking with SJD Taxi for a smooth start to your trip.