Getting from San Jose del Cabo Airport to Cabo San Lucas: Your Complete Guide
The journey from SJD to Cabo San Lucas is 43 kilometers and takes 40 to 60 minutes, depending on your transportation and traffic. Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) in San Jose del Cabo is the main gateway for travelers heading to Cabo San Lucas, the tourist corridor, and other areas in the Los Cabos region.
Quick Answer: Your Three Main Transportation Options
| Option | Cost | Travel Time | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | $75-$160 USD | 40 minutes | Families, groups, direct service |
| Shared Shuttle | $13-$40 USD per person | 45-90 minutes | Budget travelers, solo travelers |
| Luxury Transfer | Custom quote | 40 minutes | Special occasions, premium comfort |
After clearing customs at SJD, you will exit into the arrivals area to find transportation representatives at designated umbrella meeting points. Pre-booking your airport transfer is the best way to ensure guaranteed service, transparent pricing, and a stress-free start to your vacation.
This guide walks you through each transportation option from SJD to Cabo San Lucas, helping you choose the best fit for your travel style, budget, and group size. Whether you’re a family needing child-friendly amenities, a couple celebrating a special occasion, or a budget-conscious traveler, you’ll find the information needed to make an informed decision.
Comparing Your Transportation Options from SJD to Cabo San Lucas
Landing at Los Cabos International Airport is just the beginning of your adventure. The real question is how you want to make that 43-kilometer journey to Cabo San Lucas. Whether you’re traveling solo on a budget, managing kids and car seats, or celebrating something special, understanding your options helps you start your vacation on the right foot.
We offer three main ways to get from SJD to Cabo San Lucas, each designed for different travel styles and needs. Let’s break down what makes each one unique so you can choose the best fit for your trip.
Private Transfers: Comfort and Flexibility
A private transfer means stepping out of the airport to find a driver with your name on a sign, ready to take you directly to your resort or villa. There is no waiting and no extra stops.
Direct, door-to-door service is the headline feature. Your driver monitors your flight in real time, so if you’re delayed, they’ll adjust your pickup time at no extra charge. This provides peace of mind knowing someone is tracking your arrival.
Vehicles range from comfortable sedans to spacious SUVs and minivans. A sedan for up to 5 passengers is around $82 USD, while a minivan for up to 7 passengers costs about $100 USD. The price varies by destination, but you can expect to pay between $75-$160 USD for most locations.
Private transfers shine with personalized amenities. Every passenger gets complimentary bottled water or beer. You can also request a grocery stop at Walmart or Costco for an additional fee (about $25-$40 for 30 minutes). We provide child car seats at no extra charge; simply request one when you book.
Another big advantage is access to private communities. If you’re staying in a gated villa or rental property, a private transfer takes you right to the front door, a service not possible with shared options due to security restrictions.
The journey from SJD to Cabo San Lucas takes about 40 minutes in a private transfer, making it the fastest option. Families, groups, travelers with lots of luggage, or anyone who values convenience will find this option worth it.
We provide private transportation services throughout Los Cabos, including San Jose del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, and farther destinations like La Paz and Todos Santos.
Shared Shuttles: Affordable and Social
If you’re on a budget and don’t mind sharing, a shared shuttle offers excellent value. It’s a great way to save money and meet fellow travelers.
Per-person pricing makes shared shuttles the most economical choice, typically ranging from $13-$40 USD each way. For example, a trip to San Jose del Cabo is about $14 USD, the Los Cabos Corridor is around $16 USD, and Cabo San Lucas is approximately $18 USD per person.
The tradeoff for savings is time. You’ll wait at the airport for other passengers (typically 15-60 minutes). The shuttle then makes 2-4 stops at different hotels, so the total travel time to Cabo San Lucas can be 45 to 90 minutes. We group passengers by destination to minimize stops.
Shared shuttles serve hotel zones and resorts but have some restrictions. Child car seats are not permitted, and every passenger, including children, needs their own seat. To ensure space for everyone, we recommend one suitcase and one carry-on per person.
Because of multiple stops, grocery stops and complimentary beverages are not available on shared shuttles. If you’re staying in a private residence, the shuttle can only drop you at the security gate.
That shared shuttle service for departures often requires a round-trip booking. Service usually ends between 4 PM and 6 PM, depending on bookings and flight arrivals, so late-night travelers may need a private transfer.
Budget-conscious travelers, solo adventurers, and small groups with flexible schedules find shared shuttles to be the perfect solution. Learn more about our shuttle services.
Luxury Transfers: Arrive in Style
Sometimes a vacation calls for something extra special, like celebrating an anniversary or honeymoon. That’s where our luxury transfer service comes in.
Premium vehicles set luxury transfers apart. We offer Cadillac Escalades, Chevrolet Suburbans, Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, and limousines. These vehicles are spacious, immaculately maintained, and designed for comfort.
Your journey includes complimentary beverages like beer and water, and you can pre-order champagne during your reservation. Our professional, bilingual drivers provide personalized, attentive service to make your arrival memorable.
Because luxury transfers are custom to your needs, we provide custom quotes. The vehicle choice, destination, and any special requests factor into the pricing. The travel time to Cabo San Lucas remains approximately 40 minutes, ensuring a swift and stylish arrival.
Special occasions, honeymooners, or anyone wanting to add sophistication to their journey will appreciate what luxury transfers offer. It’s about setting the tone for an unforgettable vacation.
Explore our luxury transportation options to see what’s possible.
Why Choose SJD Taxi for Your Airport Transfer?
We are a leading provider of private, shared, and luxury transportation from Los Cabos International Airport. Our goal is to make your welcome to Los Cabos as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Our team monitors your flight in real time, so we’re always there when you land, even if your plane is delayed. We offer flexible booking with a clear cancellation policy. You can cancel any local shuttle or private transportation up to 72 hours before your service for a full refund (a $5 USD processing fee applies).
Safety and reliability are our priorities. Our drivers are experienced, certified, and bilingual. We serve all major resorts, private villas, and rental properties in Cabo San Lucas, San Jose del Cabo, and other areas like Todos Santos and La Paz.
Ready to book your seamless transfer? Get a quote for your transportation in Cabo San Lucas today.
Essential Arrival Tips and Booking Your Ride
Arriving at a new airport can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, your journey from SJD to Cabo San Lucas will be smooth. Let’s walk through what to expect when you land and how to make the best transportation choice.
Navigating SJD Airport: From Landing to Pickup
Los Cabos International Airport has three terminals. Terminal 1 handles domestic flights, while Terminal 2 serves international arrivals. Our services operate from both, so we will be there to meet you regardless of where you land.
Your arrival process is simple. After deplaning, you’ll head to immigration with your passport and immigration form. Next, you’ll collect your luggage and proceed through customs.
After customs, you will enter an area known as the “Shark Tank.” This room is filled with aggressive timeshare salespeople. They may claim to be your transportation or offer “free” gifts. Our best advice is to politely say “no, gracias” and keep walking without stopping or making eye contact. These individuals are not affiliated with your transportation service.
Once you exit the terminal, you’ll see designated umbrella meeting points. This is where you’ll find our friendly representatives in burgundy shirts, holding a sign with your name or our company logo. Our airport shuttles are located outside both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Check your voucher for your umbrella number to meet your driver.
Recommendations for Your Trip from SJD to Cabo San Lucas
Choosing the right transportation depends on what matters most to you. Here are our recommendations based on different travel styles.
Our Shared shuttle service
Is best for budget-conscious travelers and is the most economical choice at $13-$40 USD per person. Expect a wait of 15-60 minutes at the airport and 2-4 stops en route. The savings are significant if you’re not in a hurry. Shuttle service usually ends between 4 and 6 PM.
Private transfers
Are a game-changer for families and those with lots of luggage. You get direct service with no waiting or extra stops. We provide child car seats for private transfers, an essential feature not available on shared shuttles. Since every child requires a paid seat on a shuttle, a private transfer can often be more cost-effective for families.
Luxury Service Transfer
Arriving in a Cadillac Escalade or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with complimentary beverages is a perfect way to start a honeymoon or anniversary celebration.
Booking in advance is crucial. While we accommodate same-day reservations based on availability, pre-booking guarantees your ride and often secures better rates, especially during peak season.
Our cancellation policy offers flexibility. You can cancel any local shuttle or private transportation up to 72 hours before your service for a full refund, minus a $5 USD processing fee. You can submit your request online or by calling us.
We are often asked about safety, and we’re happy to confirm that Los Cabos is one of the safest destinations in Mexico. Our professional drivers and well-maintained vehicles prioritize your well-being. You can learn more about Is Cabo San Lucas safe.
Don’t forget the Baja California Sur tourism tax. You can conveniently CLICK TO PAY BCS TOURISM TAX online before your arrival.
If your plane is delayed, don’t worry. We monitor your flight in real-time using the information you provide at booking and will adjust your pickup time accordingly at no extra charge.
Additionally, we provide custom quotes and transportation to any location in the Los Cabos region. We can pick you up from SJD and drop you off at your resort, rental, or private villa, and can even accommodate different pickup and drop-off locations.
Ready to book? Get a quote for your transportation in Cabo San Lucas and start your vacation off right.
