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San Jose del Cabo is one of the easiest destinations in Mexico to visit: flights land 15 minutes from town, English is widely spoken in tourism, and the infrastructure is built for American and Canadian travelers. Still, a few specifics will save you money and hassle, from the two terminals at the airport to taxi prices and tipping customs. Here is what you need to know before you go.
San Jose del Cabo Travel Tips: Getting There
You fly into Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), about 12km north of downtown, a 20 to 25 minute drive. The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 handles domestic flights, and Terminal 2 handles international plus some domestic carriers. Pass the timeshare salespeople after customs and head straight outside for transport. A pre booked shared shuttle into town costs around US$20 to US$25 per person, a private transfer US$60 to US$90, and a taxi from the official stand runs roughly US$50 to US$70 to the hotel zone or center. There is no reliable public bus from the airport to downtown, so book a transfer or taxi. To decide which area to head to, see our best neighborhoods in San Jose del Cabo guide.
San Jose del Cabo Travel Tips: Getting Around
The historic center and hotel zone are walkable, but you will want wheels for the beaches and day trips. The local bus line runs between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas for about 45 to 80 pesos, an easy way to reach the corridor beaches and El Arco town. Taxis within San Jose del Cabo run US$8 to US$15, and Uber operates in Los Cabos, though pickup at the airport is restricted. Renting a car runs US$30 to US$60 per day and gives you the most flexibility for beaches like Santa Maria and Cabo Pulmo. For day trip ideas, see our things to do in San Jose del Cabo guide.
San Jose del Cabo Travel Tips: Money, Tipping and Costs
The currency is the Mexican peso (MXN), but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas at a slightly worse exchange rate, so pesos or a card are usually better. ATMs are plentiful in the center and hotel zone; decline the machine’s conversion offer to get your bank’s rate. Tipping runs 10 to 15 percent at restaurants, US$1 to US$2 per bag for porters, and US$2 to US$3 per night for housekeeping. Budget roughly US$60 to US$100 per day for two people eating well outside an all inclusive. See where to stay in San Jose del Cabo for hotel rates by area.
San Jose del Cabo Travel Tips: Safety and Health
San Jose del Cabo is generally safe for tourists, and the main risk is petty theft, so do not leave valuables unattended on the beach or in a rental car. The ocean is the bigger hazard: Playa Hotelera and Costa Azul can have strong currents and shore break, so swim only at lifeguarded or sheltered beaches like Palmilla and Santa Maria. Do not drink the tap water; use bottled or filtered water, and avoid ice from street vendors. Medical care is good, with private clinics and a hospital in town, and travel insurance is worth it for water sports. For hurricane season advice, see our San Jose del Cabo weather by month guide.
San Jose del Cabo FAQ
Do I need a visa for Mexico?
Most visitors from the US, Canada, the EU, and the UK do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 180 days. You will fill out a tourist card (FMM) on arrival, which is often included in your airfare, and your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. Check current requirements before you book, since rules change.
What is the best area to stay without a car?
Stay in the Centro Historico or the Zona Hotelera. From the center you can walk to restaurants and galleries and take short taxis to the beach, while the hotel zone puts the beach on your doorstep with a 15 minute walk or cheap taxi into town. Puerto Los Cabos and the corridor are hard without a car.
Is San Jose del Cabo different from Cabo San Lucas?
Yes. San Jose del Cabo is the quieter, historic half of Los Cabos with the mission, plaza, and art galleries, while Cabo San Lucas 32km southwest is the party town with the nightlife and the marina where the El Arco boat tours leave. Most visitors pick one as a base and day trip to the other. The nightlife and events in Cabo are covered in our San Jose del Cabo events and festivals guide.
When is hurricane season?
Hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the highest risk from mid-August through mid-October. Direct hits are uncommon, but storms like Hurricane Odile in 2014 do happen, so buy travel insurance if you visit in September or October and monitor forecasts. For the safest months to plan your trip, see our best time to visit San Jose del Cabo guide.
Suggested Hotels in San Jose del Cabo
One&Only Palmilla
One&Only Palmilla is the most famous resort in Los Cabos, set on a private beach at Palmilla with multiple pools, a spa, and dining from Mexican to sushi, about 10 minutes south of downtown. Best for couples and travelers celebrating a special occasion who want the top tier of service. Check rates and availability
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is a family friendly all inclusive on Playa Hotelera with a lagoon style pool, a kids club, and eight restaurants, located just 2km from the city center. Best for families who want meals, drinks, and activities included. Check rates and availability
Posada Real Los Cabos
Posada Real Los Cabos is a budget beachfront hotel with 133 meters of private beach, a pool, and a strong location on the hotel zone boardwalk. Best for budget travelers and couples who want beach access without resort prices. Check rates and availability
