Getting Started: Your Quick Guide to Public Transportation in Los Cabos
Looking for the bus route from San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas? Here’s what you need to know right now:
Main Bus Service: Ruta del Desierto (purple and yellow buses)
Cost:
- Between cities: MX$37 (about $2 USD)
- From airport: MX$80 (about $4.50 USD)
Travel Time: 40-45 minutes
Schedule: 4:30 AM to 11:00 PM daily, buses every 15-30 minutes
Payment: Cash only (Mexican Pesos preferred)
Main Stops:
- SJD Airport (Terminal 1)
- La Comer supermarket (San Jose del Cabo)
- Puerto Paraiso Mall (Cabo San Lucas)
Navigating transportation in a new place can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re traveling with family or arriving after a long flight. Many travelers arriving in Los Cabos wonder about their options for getting from San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas without breaking the bank.
The good news? Public buses run frequently between these two cities along the scenic Tourist Corridor. This 19-mile stretch of Highway 1 connects the laid-back charm of San Jose del Cabo with the lively marina district of Cabo San Lucas.
Whether you’re staying at a resort along the corridor or exploring both towns during your vacation, understanding how the local bus system works can save you money and give you a glimpse into everyday life in Los Cabos. The buses are safe, air-conditioned, and used by both locals commuting to work and budget-conscious travelers exploring Baja California Sur.
Your Guide to Getting from San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas by Bus
Planning your trip between these two towns is easier when you know what to expect from the local bus service. Let’s walk through everything you need to know about riding the bus in Los Cabos.
The Local Bus Experience in Los Cabos
The main bus service is Ruta del Desierto, easily spotted by their bright purple and yellow colors. These buses are the go-to for most travelers. They are air-conditioned, which is a relief in the heat, and offer a clean, functional ride. Don’t expect luxury, but it’s comfortable for the 40-minute trip. Some newer buses may have Wi-Fi, but it’s best not to rely on it.
If arriving at Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), the bus stops at Terminal 1. If you land at Terminal 2, it’s a short walk to Terminal 1 to catch it. This is a very budget-friendly way to leave the airport.
For luggage, there’s no separate cargo hold. You’ll keep your bags with you in the aisle or at your feet. This works well for light travelers with a suitcase or two. If you have a lot of luggage, it can get cramped, especially during peak commute times. The ride offers a safe and friendly glimpse into local life, as you’ll be sharing the bus with residents and other explorers.
Fares, Schedules, and What to Expect
The bus is incredibly affordable. A ride between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas is about MX$37 (around $2 USD). From the airport, the fare is MX$80 (about $4.50 USD).
Payment is cash only, and it’s best to use Mexican Pesos. Drivers may accept US dollars, but the exchange rate won’t be ideal, and change will be in pesos. Having small bills makes the process smoother.
Buses run frequently from 4:30 AM to 11:00 PM daily, with a bus arriving every 15 to 30 minutes, so you won’t wait long.
The trip takes 40 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops along the Tourist Corridor. The stops offer a chance to see the coastline and observe local life.
For more background on San Jose del Cabo and what makes it special, check out our San Jose del Cabo Travel Guide.
Where to Board and Main Stops
The bus route follows the Transpeninsular Highway 1, also known as the Tourist Corridor, which connects the two towns.
Key stops include the La Comer supermarket in San Jose del Cabo and the Puerto Paraiso Mall in Cabo San Lucas. The mall is a convenient drop-off point with shops and restaurants, located right near the marina and downtown hotels. Learn more about the area in our guide to Cabo San Lucas Locations.
You can board at marked bus stops (paradas) or simply flag down a bus by waving your hand. For safety, it’s best to use the designated stops when possible.
Don’t hesitate to ask the driver or a fellow passenger for help with your stop. Mentioning a major landmark like “Puerto Paraiso” or “La Comer” is usually enough to get assistance.
Be aware that buses stay on the highway and do not enter resort properties. You will need to walk from the highway to your hotel entrance, which can be a short trek. This is an important consideration if you have heavy luggage or mobility issues.
Is the Bus the Best Fit? Pros, Cons, and SJD Taxi Shuttle Options
Picking the right way to get around depends on what matters most to you. Are you watching your budget closely? Do you have three suitcases and a family of five? Are you arriving at midnight? These questions matter when you’re deciding between the bus from San Jose del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas and other options like our shuttle services.
The bus works great for some travelers. For others, it creates more hassle than it’s worth. Let’s talk through what you’re signing up for with each option so you can make the call that fits your trip.
Pros and Cons of Taking the Bus
The public bus is a great option for some, but it’s not for everyone. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Pros:
- Affordability: At only a few dollars per ride, it’s the cheapest way to travel between the towns and from the airport.
- Local Experience: You get a genuine feel for daily life in Los Cabos, riding alongside residents.
- Scenic Route: The journey along the Tourist Corridor offers beautiful views of the coastline.
- Frequent Service: With buses running every 15-30 minutes, you have the flexibility to travel on your own schedule.
Cons:
- Limited Luggage Space: You must keep your bags with you, which is difficult with large or multiple suitcases.
- Longer Travel Time: Multiple stops extend the trip to 40-45 minutes, compared to a direct drive.
- No Direct Resort Access: The bus stops on the main highway, often requiring a walk to your resort’s entrance.
- Cash Only: You must pay in Mexican Pesos and have small bills ready.
- Fixed Route: There’s no door-to-door service; the bus follows a set path.
| Feature | Public Bus | SJD Taxi Shared Shuttle | SJD Taxi Private Transfer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Very Low (MX$37-$80) | Medium ($13-$40 per person) | Higher (custom quote) |
| Time | 40-45 min + multiple stops | 45 min – 1 hr + 2-4 stops | Direct (approx. 30 min) |
| Convenience | Low (fixed route, cash, walk to/from stops, limited luggage) | Medium (airport pick-up, grouped stops, wait time, no car seats, no grocery stops, no drinks) | High (direct, door-to-door, car seats, grocery stops, drinks, flight tracking, enter gated communities) |
| Luggage Space | Limited | Standard | Ample |
| Child Car Seats | Not available | Not available | Available |
| Grocery Stops | Not available | Not available | Available |
| Drinks | Not available | Not available | Complimentary beer/water |
| Airport Pick-up | Terminal 1 only | Terminal 1 & 2 | Terminal 1 & 2 |
For more details on how shuttle services work, check out our guide to Cabo San Lucas Shuttle Service.
When to Consider a Shared or Private Shuttle
While the bus is great for budget-savvy adventurers, a shuttle is often a better fit for travelers seeking convenience and comfort. Consider a shuttle if:
- You’re traveling with family: Managing kids and luggage on a public bus is stressful. Our private transfers offer child car seats for safety, a feature not available on buses or shared shuttles.
- You have a late flight: The public bus stops running around 11:00 PM. We track your flight—which you can also check via the Los Cabos Airport’s official website—and ensure a vehicle is waiting for you, no matter when you land.
- You want door-to-door service: A private transfer takes you directly to your hotel lobby, avoiding a walk from the highway with your bags. We can even enter gated communities for front-door drop-offs.
- You need to make a stop: Only private transfers allow for a grocery stop on the way to your accommodation to stock up on essentials.
Shared Shuttles: The Best of Both Worlds
Our shared shuttles offer a balance between cost and convenience. For $13 to $40 per person, you get airport pickup and drop-off near your resort. While there may be a short wait at the airport and a few stops along the way, we group passengers by destination to keep the trip efficient. It’s a popular middle-ground for many visitors.
Private Transfers: The Ultimate Convenience
For the most seamless arrival, a private transfer offers direct service, complimentary beer or water, and the flexibility to add grocery stops. It’s the best way to start your vacation feeling relaxed.
Both our shared and private services can be booked in advance and offer flexible cancellation. For a complete overview of your options, visit our Transportation in Cabo San Lucas page. To learn more about our airport services, check out the Cabo Airport Transportation guide.
