Todos Santos Day Trip

If your family is ready for a break from the resort bubble, the day trip to Todos Santos is the single best way to experience authentic Baja California Sur culture. This small, artsy town about an hour north of Cabo San Lucas on Highway 19 holds the prestigious Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town) designation from the Mexican government, and the name fits — colorful colonial buildings, working art studios, craft shops, and an unhurried pace of life that feels worlds away from the marina area.

The drive itself is worth it. Highway 19 winds through dramatic desert landscape dotted with giant cardon cacti — the world's largest cactus species — and passes through small farming communities before arriving at Todos Santos. The road is well-maintained and straightforward.

Renting a car for the day ($40-60) is the most cost-effective option for families, giving you the flexibility to stop at beaches along the way.

Once in town, the main attractions are walkable within a few blocks. The galleries showcase serious contemporary Mexican art alongside folk art and crafts. The famous Hotel California draws Eagles fans for a photo op (the band denies the connection, but the hotel leans into it).

Small shops sell handwoven textiles, painted ceramics, artisan chocolate, and leather goods. For kids, the sensory experience of wandering these streets — bright colors, interesting textures, unfamiliar scents — is genuinely stimulating.

The food scene in Todos Santos is excellent and more authentic than Cabo. Taquería Delfines serves some of the best fish tacos in Baja at local prices. Café Santa Fe offers Italian-Mexican fusion in a gorgeous courtyard garden. Street vendors sell fresh fruit, paletas (Mexican ice pops), and pastries.

If your kids want beach time, stop at Playa Los Cerritos about 10 minutes south of town. It's one of the best beginner surf beaches in the region, with gentle waves, a wide sandy beach, and board rental and lesson operators right on the sand. The Pacific beaches around Todos Santos are beautiful but have strong currents — Los Cerritos is the safest swimming option.

Plan to leave Cabo by 9 AM to maximize your time. A typical day trip runs 5-7 hours including the drive. Bring cash in pesos since many small Todos Santos shops don't accept cards.