Need a laid-back Baja escape with culture, surf, and sunsets? Head to Todos Santos! This charming coastal town on Mexico’s Pacific side offers art galleries, organic cafés, stunning beaches, and a magical blend of desert and ocean vibes. Whether you're chasing waves, sipping mezcal, or exploring historic streets, Todos Santos is a Pueblo Mágico worth discovering.
Todos Santos, Mexico Highlights:
- Stroll through the historic town center: Admire colonial architecture, artisan boutiques, and colorful murals.
- Surf or relax at Playa Cerritos: Ride the waves or chill on this popular beach just south of town.
- Tour the Hotel California: Visit the iconic (though not Eagles-affiliated) hotel with a rock ‘n’ roll vibe.
- Hike the Punta Lobos trail: Enjoy sweeping ocean views and the chance to spot whales and sea turtles.
- Explore local art galleries: Discover works from Mexican and international artists in studios across town.
Best Time to Visit Todos Santos, Mexico
The best time to visit Todos Santos is from November to April when the weather is sunny, dry, and mild. This is ideal for beach days, festivals, and whale watching along the Pacific coast.
How to Get to Todos Santos, Mexico
- By Car: Todos Santos is located along Highway 19, about 1.5 hours from Los Cabos and 1 hour from La Paz.
- By Air: Fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) or La Paz International Airport (LAP), then drive or take a shuttle.
- By Bus: Regional buses like EcoBajaTours and Aguila operate routes between Cabo, La Paz, and Todos Santos.
Where to Stay in Todos Santos, Mexico
- Hotel San Cristóbal – Chic beachfront boutique hotel with a pool, mezcal bar, and serene vibes.
- Guaycura Boutique Hotel – Elegant colonial-style rooms in the heart of town with rooftop views.
- Paradero Todos Santos – Design-forward luxury retreat focused on wellness and nature immersion.
Best Things to Do in Todos Santos, Mexico
⮕ Playa La Pastora
Surf strong waves or stroll the sand on a peaceful, uncrowded beach trip.
© denboma/stock.adobe.com
Playa La Pastora is a lovely beach which can be found a few miles north of Todos Santos. The currents are often really strong here and the waves can reach heights of 15 feet or more. Because of its strong water conditions, Playa La Pastora is not ideal for those looking to swim but is perfect for surfers searching for big waves. Even those who aren’t a pro on the surfboard love spending the day at Playa La Pastora and enjoying the great weather while they watch people ride the waves. Those traveling with younger children might prefer visiting another beach in the area as this one does not have any restrooms, restaurants, or any other amenities.
⮕ Mario Surf School
Take surf lessons and ride waves on an exciting, affordable coastal adventure.
© joyt/stock.adobe.com
Have one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life with a visit to the Mario Surf School. Located on the Los Cerritos Beach in the magical beach town of Todos Santos, Mario Beach School will have you confidently surfing the waves in no time. You’ll get the best instructions for your skill level, so don’t worry even if you’ve never even stepped on a surfboard before. The waves around the beach are gentle and the bottom of the ocean is smooth and sandy, making it the perfect place for beginners to leave. If you’re already a pro, join the Mario Surf School team on one of their surfari expeditions which includes a guide/ instructor, a board, rash guard and wetsuits, lunch, snacks, and more.
Address: Los Cerritos, 23310 El Pescadero, Baja California Sur, Mexico, Phone: +52-61-21-30-33-19
Recommended Activities for Families
⮕ Explora Baja Activities Center
Book tours and explore sea, desert, or mountains on an easy, guided trip.
© htrnr/stock.adobe.com
The Explora Baja Activities Center is the perfect place to start your vacation in Todos Santos. The center offers a little bit of everything, making it a great choice for people who are traveling in groups so that everyone’s interests are met. The center can accommodation everything from hikes and surf lessons to fishing trips and horseback rides. Some of their more unique experiences include day trips to swim with sharks and sea lions or to go to Magdalena Bay so you can get up close to whales on a whale watching trip.
Located within the Todos Santos Surf Shop & Activities Center
Address: Calle Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, 23300 Todos Santos, B.C.S., Mexico, Phone: +52-61-21-45-11-14
Where to Eat in Todos Santos, Mexico
⮕ La Esquina
Enjoy fresh food and live music on a fun, casual evening outing.
© La Esquina
Literally translating to “the corner”, La Esquina is a wonderful little restaurant that can be found on the corner of Horizonte and Calle Topete in Todos Santos. It was one of the first dining establishments in the area to focus on healthy eating, serving a variety of made-to-order sandwiches, salads, soups, smoothies, and juices. Most of the fruits and vegetables which are served and used in the restaurant are organically grown in their very own backyard. The upper floor of the cafe is used for wellness treatments, specifically acupuncture, so it’s a great place to have a stress relieving treatment and enjoy a fresh juice on a hot day.
Address: Calle Horizonte S/N, 23305 Todos Santos, B.C.S., Mexico, Phone: +52-61-21-45-08-51
Attractions for Couples
⮕ Nomad Chic
Browse stylish finds and shop artisan goods on a unique, relaxed boutique stop.
© Nomad Chic
At Nomad Chic, you will find an evolving collection of accessories, apparel, jewelry, and furniture from around the world. Each item has been carefully curated by owner and designer Linda Hamilton who studied art, architecture, and interior design. She and her team strive to bring you the latest in unique must-haves which you usually won't find anywhere else. Of course, no vacation is complete without a mini shopping spree, whether it be baubles for yourself or souvenirs for your loved ones. At Nomad Chic, you’re sure to find something that you’re not going to want to leave without.
Address: 23300 Todos Santos, B.C.S., Mexico, Phone: 41-53-81-90-87
If you are interested in local events:
- Todos Santos Art Festival (February) – Weeklong celebration of music, painting, dance, and crafts.
- Gastrovino Baja Food & Wine Festival (Spring) – A delicious mix of gourmet tastings and local wines.
- Tropic of Cancer Concert Series (January) – Eclectic music festival hosted by Hotel San Cristóbal.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Todos Santos, Mexico:
- El Pescadero (10–15 min) – Laid-back beach village known for surfing and local farms.
- Playa Los Cerritos (10–15 min) – Sandy beach with good waves, food vendors, and surf schools.
- La Poza (10 min) – Freshwater lagoon near the beach with birdwatching and natural beauty.
- Sierra de la Laguna foothills (25–30 min) – Scenic hikes, desert landscapes, and biodiversity.
- San Pedrito Beach (20 min) – Less crowded surf beach with relaxed vibes and sunsets.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Todos Santos located?
- An immaculate coastal town situated on the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, Todos Santos is one of Mexico’s premier vacation destinations.
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What beach activities can visitors enjoy in Todos Santos?
- The town is filled with beautiful beaches, where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, surfing, snorkeling, playing beach volleyball, or even beach camping.
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Are there tour companies in Todos Santos?
- We found several tour companies and activity centers such as Eco Baja Adventures and the Explora Baja Activities Center, which offer tailor-made tours based on what you want to do and see.
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What can I expect from a trip to Todos Santos?
- With this list of the most amazing things to see, do, and eat in Todos Santos, your trip is bound to be memorable.
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