2025 Todos Santos Day Trip from Cabo: Is It Worth It?

So, you’re in Cabo San Lucas, and frankly, you might be looking for a slight change of pace from the energetic beach clubs and marina life. It’s a feeling a lot of people get, you know, this little pull to see what else Baja California Sur has to offer away from the main tourist hubs. I mean, we found ourselves in that exact spot, wondering about a place we’d heard whispered about: Todos Santos. It’s one of Mexico’s ‘Pueblos Mágicos,’ or Magic Towns, a designation that definitely sparks a bit of curiosity. This spot is, in a way, supposed to be a peaceful, artsy counterpart to Cabo’s lively spirit. We decided to take a day trip for the 2025 season, and honestly, what we discovered was a place with a soul all its own, which is a pretty special thing to find. At the end of the day, it’s a completely different side of Baja that more or less feels worlds away.

Getting There: The Scenic Drive North

Actually, the experience really starts with the drive itself, which is just over an hour from Cabo. You have a couple of choices here; obviously, you could rent a car for total freedom, or you could opt for a guided tour. We went the guided route, and frankly, it was a very good decision for a first visit. The highway, Mexico 19, is pretty modern and hugs the Pacific coastline for a good portion of the trip. The landscape, as a matter of fact, shifts in a really dramatic way. You leave the more arid, cactus-dotted terrain around Cabo and watch as it slowly gives way to a greener, more agricultural feel as you get closer to Todos Santos. It’s a very visual reminder that you’re literally heading somewhere different. For instance, the deep blue of the ocean on one side and the stark, stunning desert on the other is a contrast that is just incredibly memorable.

Now, choosing a guided excursion, sort of, took the pressure off. There was no need to worry about directions or finding parking, which can sometimes be a bit of a challenge in smaller towns. Our guide was, you know, a local with tons of stories, pointing out things we absolutely would have missed on our own. For example, he showed us a hidden turnoff for a whale-watching viewpoint and shared some history about the old sugar cane industry that once defined the region. On the other hand, driving yourself gives you the ability to stop whenever you please, maybe for an impromptu photo session or to explore a deserted stretch of beach you spot from the road. So, I mean, you have to decide what kind of day you’re looking for: one that is curated and informative, or one that is a bit more spontaneous and self-directed. Either way, that drive is just a fantastic part of the whole day.

First Impressions: Stepping into a Living Art Gallery

Arriving in Todos Santos is, honestly, like you’re stepping through a doorway into another time period. The energetic pace of Cabo pretty much melts away instantly. It’s replaced by this, well, calm and creative atmosphere that you can literally feel. The streets are cobbled, and the buildings are these amazing, well-preserved colonial structures painted in a whole spectrum of sun-kissed colors, like ochre, terracotta, and deep blue. You will just notice right away that this isn’t a town that was built for tour buses. Instead, it feels genuinely lived-in, a place where people actually go about their daily lives at a much slower tempo. It’s the kind of place where, frankly, the silence is just as noticeable as the sound of a distant church bell or the rustle of palm trees.

What really defines the town’s character, of course, is the art. I mean, it is absolutely everywhere. Nearly every other doorway seems to open into a thoughtfully arranged gallery or a working artist’s studio. Unlike some tourist towns where the art all looks the same, the quality and variety here are just really impressive. You can find everything from huge, abstract canvases and detailed sculptures to traditional Mexican folk art and handcrafted jewelry. We spent, like, a good two hours just wandering in and out of these spaces. The artists and gallery owners were incredibly approachable, just happy to talk about their work without any pressure to buy. It really feels like a community that supports creative expression, you know?

The Heart of the Town: Culture, Food, and That Famous Hotel

At the center of it all, you will naturally find the main plaza and the historic mission, Misión de Nuestra Señora del Pilar. This area is, basically, the town’s living room. We saw local families relaxing on benches in the shade, and children playing near the gazebo; it’s got a really strong sense of community. The church itself, which dates back to the 18th century, is simple yet very moving and stands as a kind of anchor to the town’s deep history. You kind of get the impression that this square has been the heart of local life for generations, a gathering place for celebrations and daily interactions. It’s a very peaceful spot to just sit for a moment and soak in the genuine local atmosphere.

And let’s talk about the food, seriously. Todos Santos is home to a really amazing farm-to-table dining scene, drawing on the produce from the surrounding agricultural region. We stopped at a small, family-run spot for lunch and had some of the most incredibly fresh fish tacos. The flavors were just so clean and vibrant. Many restaurants have these beautiful, plant-filled courtyards where you can eat, making the meal itself feel like a small escape. From gourmet spots to humble taco stands, the food here is definitely a highlight and a reason in itself to make the trip. Honestly, you should make a point to try something that grew in the local soil.

So, What’s the Deal with Hotel California?

Okay, you can’t talk about a day trip to Todos Santos without mentioning Hotel California. As a matter of fact, it’s pretty much an icon of the town. The first question everyone has is, well, is this *the* hotel from the Eagles’ song? The short answer is no; frankly, the band members have said they had no connection to or knowledge of this specific hotel when they wrote the song. Yet, that doesn’t really stop thousands of visitors from stopping by to take a photo. And you know what? You definitely should too. It’s a beautifully restored building with a fantastic courtyard restaurant and a cool gift shop. Just go in with the understanding that you’re visiting a historical landmark of Todos Santos, not a piece of rock and roll history. In a way, the legend has given it a life of its own, and that’s a part of its charm now.

Beyond the Town Square: Beaches and Hidden Gems

Frankly, if you have a little extra time, it is totally worth exploring just outside the main town area. The beaches on this side of the peninsula are a completely different animal than the calm swimming coves of Cabo. For instance, the Pacific waters here are wild and powerful, creating a paradise for surfers, particularly at Playa Cerritos, which is just a short drive south. It’s a great place to watch skilled surfers ride the waves or even take a lesson yourself. Or, if you’re looking for something more secluded, you could seek out Playa Las Palmas. Getting there involves a short walk through a palm grove, which almost feels like you’re discovering a secret spot. The shoreline is rugged and more or less untouched, perfect for a long walk.

Back in town, there are other little spots that are easy to miss, you know. We, by the way, stumbled upon a blanket-weaving workshop where you can see artisans working on traditional looms, with some really stunning pieces for sale. There’s also a famous local candy store, or ‘dulceria,’ that sells all sorts of traditional sweets made from local fruits and nuts. It’s these small, authentic experiences, honestly, that make a visit feel more personal. It’s really worth it to just wander down a side street; you never know what kind of charming little shop or courtyard you might find.

Tips for a Perfect 2025 Day Trip

Alright, if you’re planning your own trip, here are a few practical thoughts that will, pretty much, make your day a lot smoother. It’s a pretty easygoing place, but just a little preparation goes a long way. At the end of the day, you want to be comfortable so you can focus on soaking it all in.

• Footwear is Key: Honestly, wear your most comfortable walking shoes. The cobblestone streets are charming but can be a bit uneven, so you’ll be happy you chose comfort over style.
• Bring Some Pesos: Well, a lot of the galleries, restaurants, and the hotel take credit cards. Still, you’ll find that smaller artisan shops, street food vendors, or local markets are often cash-only. It’s just easier to have some pesos on hand.
• Sun Protection: The Baja sun is no joke, you know. A hat, sunglasses, and a good reef-safe sunscreen are absolutely non-negotiable items for your day bag.
• Timing Your Visit: In other words, if you prefer a quieter experience with fewer people around, try to plan your day trip for a weekday. Weekends tend to be a little busier with visitors from both Cabo and La Paz.
• Pace Yourself: Seriously, the magic of Todos Santos is its relaxed vibe. Don’t try to rush from one gallery to the next. Instead, build in some time to just sit in the plaza, enjoy a long lunch, and wander without a specific destination.
• Chat with People: The locals and expats who call this town home are, as a matter of fact, a huge part of its appeal. They are usually very friendly and full of great recommendations or interesting stories, so don’t be shy about striking up a conversation.

Read our full review: [2025 Todos Santos Day Trip from Cabo Full Review and Details]

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