Why SJD Airport is Your Gateway to Los Cabos Paradise
SJD airport is Los Cabos International Airport, the sixth-busiest airport in Mexico and your main gateway to the stunning Baja California Peninsula. Located in San José del Cabo, this busy hub serves over 7.4 million passengers annually and connects you to the entire Los Cabos region.
Quick SJD Airport Facts:
- Official Name: Los Cabos International Airport
- Airport Codes: SJD (IATA), MMSD (ICAO)
- Location: 8 miles from San José del Cabo, 23 miles from Cabo San Lucas
- Terminals: 3 terminals serving domestic and international flights
- Destinations: 30 US cities, 11 Canadian cities, 18 Mexican cities
- Annual Passengers: 7.48 million (2024)
Whether you’re heading to the party scene in Cabo San Lucas or the laid-back charm of San José del Cabo, SJD airport puts you just minutes away from world-class resorts, pristine beaches, and unforgettable vacation experiences.
The airport features modern facilities including free Wi-Fi, VIP lounges, currency exchange, and duty-free shopping. With three terminals and connections to major airlines like American, United, Delta, and Alaska Airlines, SJD makes traveling to Los Cabos easier than ever.
SJD Airport Guide: Terminals, Airlines, Stats & Services
When you step off your plane at SJD airport, you’re entering one of Mexico’s most impressive transportation hubs. This isn’t just any airport – it’s the sixth-busiest airport in Mexico and the main reason Los Cabos has become such a beloved destination for travelers from around the world.
In 2024, SJD airport welcomed over 7.5 million passengers, making it the 24th-busiest airport in all of Latin America. What makes this even more impressive is that 61% of these passengers are traveling internationally, showing just how connected this corner of Mexico is to the rest of North America.
The airport operates with a single 3,000-meter runway at an elevation of 114 meters above sea level. The 22 aircraft stands keep things moving smoothly, handling over 500 flights per week. Your flight will most likely land from one of 30 US cities or 11 Canadian cities that have direct service to Los Cabos. The busiest route? Los Angeles to SJD, which carried nearly 378,000 passengers in 2023 alone.
If you’re looking for flexible travel options, Alaska Airlines offers Flight Pass options that can make multiple trips to Los Cabos more affordable.
| Feature | Terminal 1 | Terminal 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Domestic flights | International flights |
| Size | 16,580 m² | 45,000 m² |
| Gates | 8 gates | 19 gates (10 with jet bridges) |
| Airlines | Mexican carriers | International carriers |
sjd airport codes, location & rankings
The airport gets its SJD code from San José del Cabo, the charming city where it’s located at coordinates 23°09′06″N 109°43′15″W. This positioning is perfect – you’re just 8 miles from San José del Cabo and 23 miles from Cabo San Lucas, making it easy to reach either destination.
Here’s something that confuses many first-time visitors: while Cabo San Lucas does have its own airport (CSL), virtually all commercial flights land at SJD. The CSL airport is mainly used for private jets and cargo flights. So when you book your vacation to “Cabo,” you’ll almost certainly be flying into SJD.
The airport’s growth mirrors the region’s incredible tourism boom. Starting as a small facility in 1977, SJD airport has undergone major expansions in 1997, 2008-2011, and most recently in 2022-2025 ongoing.
SJD Airport terminals & amenities
When you arrive at SJD airport, you’ll find yourself in one of three well-designed terminals, each serving different types of flights and airlines.
Terminal 1 is your domestic hub, covering 16,580 square meters with 8 gates. If you’re flying with Mexican carriers like Volaris, Viva Aerobus, or Aeromexico from cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Monterrey, this is where you’ll land.
Terminal 2 is where most international travelers arrive. This impressive 45,000-square-meter facility features 19 gates (10 with jet bridges) and a 400-meter concourse. Major airlines including American Airlines, United, Delta, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest operate from here.
Terminal 3 operates seasonally to handle the busy winter months when Los Cabos sees its highest visitor numbers.
Throughout all terminals, you’ll find free Wi-Fi that actually works well – perfect for letting family know you’ve arrived safely. The VIP lounge offers a more luxurious experience with spa services, a pool table, and soda fountain if you want to upgrade your airport experience.
Money matters are handled easily with multiple currency exchange locations offering competitive rates, plus numerous ATMs that accept international cards. The duty-free shopping is extensive, featuring everything from Mexican crafts and premium liquor to souvenirs for folks back home.
When it comes to food, you won’t go hungry. The restaurants range from quick grab-and-go options to sit-down establishments where you can enjoy a proper meal – maybe even a margarita to start your vacation right. The medical services facility provides peace of mind for any health concerns, and the baggage handling is generally efficient with minimal wait times.
Transportation From SJD: Shuttles, Taxis, Car Rentals & Traveler Tips
Once you’ve collected your luggage and cleared customs at SJD airport, the next step is getting to your Los Cabos destination. You have several reliable transportation options, each with its own advantages depending on your budget, group size, and travel style.
The journey from SJD airport to your final destination is part of the Los Cabos experience. You’ll travel 8 miles to San José del Cabo (about 15-20 minutes), 15-20 miles to The Corridor resorts (25-35 minutes), or 23 miles to Cabo San Lucas (35-45 minutes). If you’re heading to Todos Santos, plan for about an hour, while La Paz requires a scenic 3-hour drive.
You have two main route options from the airport. The toll road cuts straight through the desert landscape, offering the fastest connection to your destination. The scenic route winds through San José del Cabo, giving you glimpses of local life and coastal views.
Here’s something important to know: Uber is NOT available for pickup at SJD airport. While you might use rideshare services elsewhere in Los Cabos, you’ll need to arrange airport transportation through shuttles, private transfers, or rental cars.
If you’re planning to rent a car, parking costs 50 pesos per hour, with day one costing 305 pesos and subsequent days dropping to 300 pesos each. Los Cabos ranks among the top 3 safest destinations in Mexico, making it comfortable for travelers who want to explore on their own.
For families with young children, child car seats are available for private transfers only – shared shuttles cannot accommodate car seats due to space and safety regulations with multiple passengers.
More info about Cabo Airport Shuttle FAQ
More info about Cabo Airport Transportation
Booking a SJD Airport Shuttle: Costs, Zones & Timing
Shared shuttle service offers the most economical way to travel from SJD airport, with costs ranging from $16-40 USD per person each way. The price depends entirely on your destination zone – the closer you’re staying to the airport, the less you’ll pay.
The zone-based pricing system is straightforward. Zone 1 (San José del Cabo) starts at just $16 USD per person, while Zone 2 (The Corridor) begins at $25 USD. Zone 3 (Cabo San Lucas) costs $30 USD, Zone 4 (Pacific Side) runs $35 USD, and Zone 5 (Pacific North) reaches $40 USD per person.
Here’s what to expect with shared shuttle service: wait times range from 15 minutes to 1 hour at the airport while we collect other passengers heading to your area. The shuttle typically makes 2-4 stops along the way, and we do our best to group travelers going to the same resorts or general areas to minimize everyone’s travel time.
Every passenger needs their own seat, including children – this is a safety requirement we take seriously. Most shared shuttle services stop operating between 4-6 PM, depending on flight schedules and advance bookings. If you’re arriving on a late flight, you’ll likely need to book a private transfer instead.
The cancellation policy is generous – you can cancel up to 72 hours before your service for a full refund, minus a $5 USD processing fee. Same-day booking is available based on inventory, though advance reservations guarantee your spot and often offer better rates.
More info about Ultimate Guide to Cabo Airport Shuttles
Private Transfers & VIP Perks
Private transfers transform your arrival experience from simple transportation into a personalized welcome to Los Cabos. Instead of sharing space with other travelers, you’ll have an entire vehicle dedicated to your group, complete with special touches that make the journey memorable.
Vehicle options include everything from private SUVs (perfect for 1-7 passengers) to luxury Suburbans and Escalades for those wanting extra comfort. Private vans accommodate larger groups up to 10 passengers, while Sprinters handle up to 18 people. For the ultimate luxury experience, limousines are available for special occasions.
What sets private transfers apart are the VIP perks that begin the moment you meet your driver. Welcome drinks – either beer or water for each passenger – help you start relaxing immediately. Grocery stops along the way let you stock up on essentials before reaching your resort, saving time later in your vacation.
All toll road fees are included in your private transfer price, so there are no surprise charges. Same-day booking is available based on inventory, though advance reservations ensure availability and sometimes offer better rates.
Private transfers can access gated communities and private residences, delivering you directly to your front door. This is particularly valuable for vacation rentals in exclusive areas like Pedregal or private villas throughout the region – something shared shuttles simply cannot do.
Pricing starts at $140 USD for Zone 1, increasing to $160 USD for Zone 2, $165 USD for Zone 3, $175 USD for Zone 4, and $200 USD for Zone 5. While more expensive than shared shuttles, the convenience, comfort, and personalized service often make private transfers worth the investment.
Seamless Rides with SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle
At SJD Taxi Airport Shuttle, we believe your Los Cabos vacation should begin the moment you step off the plane at SJD airport. That’s why we’ve designed our transportation services to be more than just a ride – they’re your first taste of Los Cabos hospitality.
What makes us different starts with the small touches. Welcome drinks help you start relaxing immediately, while grocery stops (available with private transfers) let you stock up on essentials before reaching your resort. We can coordinate multiple vehicles for large groups, ensuring everyone in your party travels together while maintaining comfort.
Flight monitoring means we track your arrival for delays and cancellations, ensuring a vehicle is waiting regardless of schedule changes. Our flexible cancellation policy offers a full refund up to 72 hours before service (minus a small processing fee), and same-day bookings are available based on inventory.
Why choose us? Beyond competitive pricing and reliable service, we offer personalized attention to your specific needs. Whether you’re visiting the luxury resorts of The Corridor, the vibrant nightlife of Cabo San Lucas, or the authentic charm of San José del Cabo, we ensure your journey from SJD airport sets the perfect tone for your Los Cabos trip.
