From Cabo’s Buzz to La Paz’s Bliss
Planning your journey from the vibrant energy of Cabo to the tranquil beauty of La Paz? The 157 km (98 miles) drive is a scenic adventure, taking approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. You have several reliable transportation options, each catering to different budgets and travel styles.
Quick Transportation Options:
- Private Transfer: $157-$290 USD (1-6 passengers) | Direct, door-to-door service | 2-2.5 hours
- Shared Shuttle: $59 USD per person | Economical option | 3+ hours (includes stops)
- Rental Car: Starting at $50-70 USD per day | Maximum flexibility for stops | 2-2.5 hours
- Public Bus: From $12 USD per person | Most budget-friendly | 3+ hours
La Paz, the capital of Baja California Sur, offers a distinct and authentic experience compared to Los Cabos. While Cabo is renowned for its bustling nightlife and luxury resorts, La Paz exudes a relaxed coastal charm and a strong connection to its natural surroundings. The city is celebrated for its picturesque Malecón boardwalk, the world-famous Balandra Beach, and its status as a gateway to incredible marine life. As the official tourism site for La Paz highlights, it’s a premier destination for eco-adventures like swimming with whale sharks and sea lions.
The journey is straightforward and safe, with most travelers choosing either the coastal Highway 19 or the inland Highway 1. A private transfer offers unparalleled convenience, while a shared shuttle provides an affordable alternative. Both services can pick you up from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) or your hotel. Understanding your options is the first step in crafting the perfect trip, whether traveling with family, as a couple, or in a group.
Comparing Your Cabo to La Paz Transportation Options
You have several transportation choices when traveling from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) to La Paz. The drive is about 2.5 hours along the scenic coastal highway. SJD Taxi offers private transfers and shared shuttles to fit different needs and budgets.
Here’s how the main transportation options from Cabo to La Paz stack up:
| Transportation Option | Average Cost (one-way) | Travel Time | Convenience Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SJD Taxi Private Transfer | $157 – $290 USD (1-6 passengers) | 2 – 2.5 hours | High | Families, groups, privacy, direct service |
| SJD Taxi Shared Shuttle | $59 USD per person | 3+ hours | Moderate | Budget travelers, solo travelers |
| Rental Car | $50 – $70 USD per day | 2 – 2.5 hours | High | Exploration, flexibility, road trips |
| Public Bus | $12 – $15 USD per person | 3+ hours | Low-Moderate | Deep budget, local experience |
For more comprehensive details, visit our page on private transportation services. If you’re coordinating travel for a larger party, our group transportation solutions can handle everything from wedding parties to corporate retreats.
SJD Taxi Private Transfer: Comfort and Flexibility
A private transfer is the premium choice for comfort and convenience. It offers direct, door-to-door service from SJD Airport or your hotel to your destination in La Paz. There is no waiting for other passengers and no extra stops. We customize the transfer to your flight arrival and monitor flights for delays to ensure a vehicle awaits you.
Private transfers are ideal for families and groups, offering privacy and space in vehicles like SUVs, Vans, and Sprinters. Each passenger receives a complimentary beer or water, with more available. We also provide child car seats at no extra charge upon request. A key benefit is direct drop-off inside private, gated communities, which is impossible with shared services.
While it is the most expensive option for solo travelers, the per-person cost for groups of three to five is competitive with shared shuttles. We highly recommend booking in advance to secure your vehicle and departure time.
SJD Taxi Shared Shuttle: Affordable and Social
Our Platinum shared shuttle service is economical for travel from Cabo to La Paz. Around $159 USD per person, it’s an excellent option for budget-conscious solo travelers and couples. You can reserve your spot online by selecting the Platinum Shuttle to La Paz and La Paz Downtown as your locations.
The lower price comes with less flexibility. The trip takes 3+ hours due to stops for other passengers. Expect a wait time at the airport (15-60 minutes) while we group travelers. Each passenger is allowed one standard suitcase (25kg max) and one personal bag (10kg max). Oversized luggage and surfboards cannot be accommodated.
Shared shuttles do not include complimentary beverages or allow for grocery stops. They drop off at the security gate of private communities, not at the front door. Also, child car seats are not permitted, and all children require their own seat. Service typically ends between 4 and 6 pm. We strongly recommend pre-booking to guarantee your seat. You can book your shared shuttle directly from Cabo Airport to La Paz through our website.
Planning Your Journey: Safety, Stops, and Sights
Your journey from Cabo to La Paz is scenic through beautiful landscapes. With some planning, you can make it safe and memorable.
Is it Safe to travel from Cabo to La Paz?
Traveling from Cabo to La Paz is generally very safe. Los Cabos is one of the top three safest regions in Mexico. The U.S. State Department has a Level 2 travel advisory for Baja California Sur, which means “Exercise Increased Caution.” This is the same level as many popular European countries. Crime rates in La Paz are even lower than in Cabo San Lucas, and serious crimes against tourists are rare.
The primary safety concern is road conditions. The highway is well-maintained, but livestock can wander onto the road. This creates a significant risk when driving at night due to limited lighting. We strongly recommend traveling during daylight hours. If you have concerns, our professional drivers know these roads well and handle all the logistics so that you can relax. Emergency resources like the Green Angels (Ángeles Verdes) are available for roadside assistance.
For a more detailed breakdown of safety considerations, read our comprehensive guide: Is traveling from Cabo to La Paz safe?
Scenic Stops & Detours on Your Cabo to La Paz Trip
The drive from Los Cabos to La Paz is scenic, with two main routes. Highway 19 follows the Pacific coast, while Highway 1 goes through the East Cape region.
Along Highway 19, stop in Todos Santos, a designated Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town) known for its art galleries and the famous Hotel California. Nearby, El Pescadero offers a quiet, agricultural vibe, and Cerritos Beach is a perfect spot for surfing and relaxing.
The Highway 1 route through the East Cape leads to Los Barriles, a tranquil town on the Sea of Cortez famous for kitesurfing and sport fishing. This route also provides access to Cabo Pulmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site with North America’s only living coral reef, ideal for snorkeling and diving.
For more inspiration on what awaits you at your destination, check out our complete La Paz Travel Guide.
Arriving in La Paz: What to Do Next
Welcome to La Paz, the peaceful capital of Baja California Sur. Start your visit at the Malecón boardwalk, a waterfront promenade perfect for a stroll, especially at sunset.
Don’t miss Balandra Beach, often called one of Mexico’s most beautiful beaches, with its shallow turquoise waters and iconic “Mushroom Rock.” Take a tour to Isla Espíritu Santo for marine adventures to snorkel with playful sea lions. Depending on the season, you can swim with whale sharks in La Paz Bay (October-April) or go whale watching (December-April).
La Paz’s culinary scene is centered on fresh seafood. From street tacos to waterfront dining, there are plenty of delicious options. Explore our guide to the Best Restaurants in La Paz for specific recommendations and local favorites.
Our transfer service ensures you arrive safely and stress-free, ready to explore. Our experienced local drivers know the roads and monitor flights for any delays.
Ready to experience everything La Paz has to offer? Book your seamless transfer from SJD Airport to La Paz today! Let us handle the driving so you can start your adventure when you land.
