Todos Santos is a charming coastal town in Baja California Sur, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. This magical town is often described as a hidden gem, where visitors can enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, explore local art galleries, and savor delicious cuisine. The nearby beaches are perfect for surfing, swimming, and relaxing under the sun.
The destination guide
Todos Santos
City in Mexico, North AmericaUpdated
- Overall8/10
- Best forCouples, Adventure seekers, Luxury travelers
- PeakJan, Mar, Nov, Dec
- CurrencyMXN
Todos Santos sits an hour north of Cabo but feels like a different country — art galleries, good tacos, and surf breaks without the resort crowds.
At a glance
CurrencyMXN
Time zoneMountain Standard Time
Languages
- Spanish
Setting
- Pacific desert coast
- Sierra de la Laguna mountains
- Desert oasis
- Historic town
Known for
- Surfing
- Art & Culture
- Boutique Retreats
- Nature.
Population7,0007,000 residents
VisaDuration: Up to 180 days as a visitor without paid activities · Documents: Valid passport for the duration of stay and supporting documents requested by Mexican immigration authorities
How Todos Santos scores
8/10OverallExcellent
Weather9/10
Value for money7/10
Safety6/10
Food & cuisine8/10
Culture & arts4/10
Cultural experience8/10
History6/10
Nature & outdoors9/10
Adventure4/10
Nightlife5/10
Shopping5/10
Family friendly5/10
Romance8/10
Editorial scores on a 10-point scale, weighed against destinations of the same kind.
Travel safety snapshot
Overall68/100Moderate rating
Women travellers64/100
LGBTQ+ travellers50/100
Theft54/100
Medical care66/100
Physical harm72/100
Political freedom60/100
SafePlace indicators use their source 100-point scale; higher is more favourable. Planning context, not a live travel advisory — check official government guidance before you go.
When to go
Best months to visit: January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November and December.
- January: 17.1 to 24.6 degrees Celsius, 0.5 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- February: 17.3 to 24.6 degrees Celsius, 2.4 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- March: 18.1 to 26.3 degrees Celsius, 0.8 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- April: 19.4 to 26.8 degrees Celsius, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- May: 22.9 to 30.1 degrees Celsius, 3.3 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- June: 25.3 to 31.5 degrees Celsius, 1.1 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- July: 27.6 to 32.9 degrees Celsius, 4.8 millimetres of rain, best-time score 3 out of 5.
- August: 27.1 to 32.5 degrees Celsius, 17.8 millimetres of rain, best-time score 3 out of 5.
- September: 25.9 to 32.1 degrees Celsius, 59.7 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- October: 24.5 to 30.9 degrees Celsius, 12.4 millimetres of rain, best-time score 5 out of 5.
- November: 21.3 to 28.6 degrees Celsius, 0.6 millimetres of rain, best-time score 4 out of 5.
- December: 18.2 to 24.8 degrees Celsius, best-time score 4 out of 5.
Month-by-month conditions and packing advice
- January
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry Mild winter, pleasant for exploring. Crowds: Peak tourist season with excellent conditions for all outdoor activities including beach visits, hiking, cultural site exploration, and city walking tours. Hotel rates and crowd levels are highest during this period. UV levels remain high despite cooler temperatures. Pack: Lightweight layers for temperature variation; Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration; Broad-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen; Light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces; Modest clothing for cultural sites and mosques; Breathable cotton/linen fabrics
- February
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry Comfortable temperatures, low crowds. Crowds: February marks the peak tourist season in Todos Santos, with favorable conditions for beach activities, hiking, and cultural tours. Hotel rates and crowd levels are at their highest, with high UV levels persisting despite cooler temperatures. Ideal weather for beach visits, water sports, and exploring local markets. Pack: Lightweight layers for temperature variation; Comfortable walking shoes for exploring beaches and trails; Wide-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen; Light cardigan for cooler evenings; Light, breathable clothing for beach activities; Modest attire for cultural sites and religious venues
- March
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry Spring weather, excellent for outdoor activities. Crowds: Peak tourist season with excellent conditions for all outdoor activities including beach visits, cultural site exploration, and city walking tours. Hotel rates and crowd levels are highest during this period. UV levels remain high despite warmer temperatures. Pack: Lightweight layers for temperature variation; Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration; Broad-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen; Light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces; Modest clothing for cultural sites and mosques; Breathable cotton/linen fabrics
- April
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry Beautiful spring days, perfect sightseeing time. Crowds: Peak tourist season with excellent conditions for all outdoor activities including desert safaris, beach visits, cultural site exploration, and city walking tours. Hotel rates and crowd levels are highest during this period. UV levels remain high despite cooler temperatures. Pack: Lightweight layers for temperature variation; Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration; Broad-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen; Light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces; Modest clothing for cultural sites and mosques; Breathable cotton/linen fabrics
- May
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry Warm and sunny before summer peaks. Crowds: May marks the peak tourist season in Todos Santos, with excellent weather conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach visits, and exploring local markets. The warm temperatures and sunny skies attract visitors eager to experience the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage. During this time, hotel rates and crowd levels are at their highest, so early booking is recommended. Visitors should be prepared for high UV levels, as sun protection remains essential throughout the day. Pack: Lightweight, breathable clothing for sun protection; Comfortable walking shoes for exploring; Wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunscreen; Light jacket for cooler evenings; Sunglasses for enhanced visibility; Light, moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort
- June
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry Getting warm, early beach weather. Crowds: June marks the peak tourist season in Todos Santos, with warm and sunny weather ideal for beach activities, cultural tours, and exploring the charming town. The high temperatures and sunny skies attract visitors eager to experience the local festivals and art galleries. Accommodation prices and tourist crowds are at their highest, so early booking is recommended. Despite the heat, the dry conditions ensure comfortable outdoor exploration. Pack: Lightweight, breathable clothing for sun protection; Wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses; Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics; Sunglasses with UV protection; Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings; Comfortable sandals or walking shoes
- July
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry Hottest month, can be crowded. Crowds: July marks the peak tourist season in Todos Santos, with excellent weather conditions for outdoor activities such as beach visits, hiking, and exploring local markets. The high temperatures and sunny skies attract visitors eager to experience the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage. During this time, hotel rates and crowd levels are at their highest, so early booking is recommended. Visitors should be prepared for the intense sun, as UV levels remain high despite the cooler temperatures. Pack: Lightweight, breathable clothing for sun protection; Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses; Lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics; Sunscreen with high SPF; Comfortable walking shoes; Light jacket for cooler evenings
- August
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry Very warm and busy. Crowds: Peak tourist season with excellent conditions for all outdoor activities including beach visits, cultural site tours, and desert safaris. Hotel rates and crowd levels are highest during this period. UV levels remain high despite warmer temperatures. Pack: Lightweight layers for temperature variation; Comfortable walking shoes for city exploration; Broad-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen; Light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces; Modest clothing for cultural sites and mosques; Breathable cotton/linen fabrics
- September
- Hot and sunny, some rain Excellent weather as heat subsides. Crowds: September marks the peak tourist season in Todos Santos, with favorable weather conditions for a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, beach excursions, and cultural tours. The town experiences moderate crowd levels, with visitors drawn to the region's natural attractions and cultural events. Accommodation prices and dining options tend to be higher during this period due to increased demand. Travelers should be prepared for high UV levels, as the sun remains strong despite the cooler temperatures. Pack: Lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime activities; Sunscreen with high SPF; Comfortable walking shoes; Wide-brimmed hat; Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings; Light rain jacket for occasional showers
- October
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry Mild autumn, comfortable and less crowded. Crowds: January marks the peak tourist season in Todos Santos, with excellent weather conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach visits, and exploring local markets. The town is bustling with visitors, leading to higher hotel rates and crowded attractions. Despite the warm temperatures, UV levels remain high, so visitors should apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing. This is the best time to experience Todos Santos' vibrant community events and festivals, which often coincide with the peak tourist period. Pack: Lightweight layers for temperature variation; Comfortable walking shoes for exploring town and beaches; Wide-brimmed hat and high SPF sunscreen; Light cardigan for cooler evenings; Light, breathable clothing for beach outings; Comfortable sandals for casual wear
- November
- Hot and sunny, mostly dry Cooler but still pleasant. Crowds: January marks the peak tourist season in Todos Santos, with excellent weather conditions for outdoor activities such as hiking, beach visits, and exploring local markets. The warm temperatures and sunny skies attract visitors eager to experience the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Hotel rates and crowd levels are at their highest, so early booking is recommended. Despite the heat, the dry conditions provide comfortable temperatures, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the local atmosphere. Pack: Lightweight layers for temperature variation; Comfortable walking shoes for exploring; Wide-brimmed hat and high SPF sunscreen; Light cardigan for cooler evenings; Light, breathable clothing for cultural sites; Sunglasses for sunny days
- December
- Warm and pleasant, mostly dry Mild winter, festive atmosphere. Crowds: December marks the peak tourist season in Todos Santos, with excellent conditions for outdoor activities such as beach excursions, hiking, and exploring local markets. Hotel rates and crowd levels are at their highest, with high UV levels persisting despite cooler temperatures. Visitors should plan for peak season demands and consider booking accommodations in advance. Pack: Lightweight layers for temperature variation; Comfortable walking shoes for beach and city exploration; Broad-brimmed hat and SPF 50+ sunscreen; Light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces; Modest clothing for cultural sites and religious venues; Breathable cotton/linen fabrics
Peak season
- November
- December
- January
- March
Off-peak
- June
- July
- August
- September
Know before you go
About
Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, is a coastal Pueblo Mágico on the Pacific side of the Baja California peninsula, about 80 kilometers north of Cabo San Lucas and home to roughly 7,000 residents. Founded in 1724 around a Spanish mission and built up as a sugarcane town in the late 1800s, it was named a Pueblo Mágico (“Magic Town”) in 2006 for its colonial charm and thriving arts scene. Today the town is known as an artist colony, with galleries, boutique hotels, and a landmark Hotel California, though the band has denied any link to the famous song. Set near the Tropic of Cancer between desert, the Sierra de la Laguna, and the ocean, Todos Santos draws visitors for surf beaches such as Playa Los Cerritos, seasonal whale watching, and a laid-back alternative to the resorts of Los Cabos.
Neighbourhoods
Centro Historico, Las Tunas, San Vicente, La Pastora
Best time to visit
November to April
Season by season
Fall/Winter (Nov-Apr) is peak season with warm, dry weather and whale watching; Spring (May) is pleasant and less crowded; Summer (June-Sept) is hot, humid, and carries a hurricane risk.
Crowds
Moderate
Getting there and around
Getting there
Fly into Canyonlands Field (CNY) or drive 4 hours from Salt Lake City (SLC). Located 5 miles north of Moab.
Getting around
Car is required for the 18-mile scenic drive. No park shuttles exist. Parking fills by 7am in peak season.
Top experiences in Todos Santos
Playa Los Cerritos
The iconic symbol of Utah. A moderately difficult 3-mile hike leads to this freestanding arch (best at sunset).
Downtown Todos Santos
Punta Lobos Hike
Editor-curated picks carried over from our original guide. Where a full place guide exists, the card links to it.
Where to stay
Paradero Todos Santos
Todos Santos, BCS 23300, Mexico
Chic eco-retreat spread across five acres of farmland with brutalist architecture, earth-toned interiors, and immersive desert-to-ocean nature experiences.
Hotel San Cristóbal
Camino a Playa Las Palmas, Los Cerritos, BCS, Mexico
Beachfront luxury hotel on Punta Lobos Beach blending 1970s Mexican design with modern comforts, an oceanfront pool, and a celebrated restaurant.
Todos Santos Boutique Hotel
Benito Juárez esq. Topete, Todos Santos, BCS, Mexico
Intimate ten-room property in the old town heart, a Small Luxury Hotels member with hand-painted murals, heated pool, and fine dining.
Editor-curated stays carried over from our original guide. Where we have reviewed the hotel, the card links to the review.
Tips from the field
Highlights
- Vibrant art scene, historic Pueblo Mágico downtown, world-class surfing, and whale watching.
Best activities
- Surfing, whale watching, exploring art galleries, hiking coastal trails, enjoying the culinary scene.
Local experiences
- Participate in a sea turtle release (Dec-Feb). Browse the local art galleries. Try farm-to-table dining at places like Jazamango.
Practical tips
- Rent a car to easily access surrounding beaches and trails. Carry cash as some smaller vendors may not accept cards.
Photography tips
- Capture the colorful colonial architecture in town. The sunsets at Playa Los Cerritos or Punta Lobos are spectacular.
Timing
- 3-4 days is ideal to experience the town, beaches, and some activities. Peak whale watching is Jan-Feb.
Keeping it authentic
- Designated a Pueblo Mágico, the town retains its historic charm, colonial architecture, and strong artistic community, contrasting with the large resorts of Cabo.
Culture, customs and safety
Cultural heritage
Todos Santos preserves Baja California Sur artistic heritage as a pueblo mágico, transforming from sugar cane prosperity to bohemian cultural oasis. Historic buildings from the sugar era house galleries, restaurants, and boutique hotels. Hotel California mystique attracts visitors while local artists create contemporary works inspired by desert and ocean. Traditional festivals including music and film celebrate creative culture. Organic farming and farm-to-table movement connect to agricultural heritage. The town maintains authentic Mexican character while embracing international artists creating unique Baja cultural blend.
Local customs & etiquette
Stay on trails to protect fragile cryptobiotic soil. Do not climb on named arches. Leave No Trace.
Safety notes
The town is safe, but ocean safety is critical. Many beaches have strong rip currents and rogue waves. Only swim at designated safe beaches like Playa Los Cerritos, and with caution.
Travel Style
Activities
