You’ve done it. After months of planning, you’ve finally touched down at the sun-drenched Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). You’ve breezed through immigration, grabbed your luggage, and now only one thing stands between you and a cold Pacifico by the pool: the transfer to your hotel.
But how long will that final leg of the journey actually take?
The answer varies dramatically depending on which of Cabo’s distinct zones you’re staying in. A trip to a nearby San José resort can be a quick 20-minute hop, while a journey to a secluded Pacific-side villa can take over an hour. Knowing the real-world travel time is the key to planning your transportation, managing your expectations, and starting your vacation without any stress.
Here at The Cabo Sun, we’ve created the definitive guide to travel times from the airport to every major destination in the region.
(Note: These are average times for private or shared shuttles. Times can increase by 20-30% during peak traffic, especially with the ongoing construction at the Fonatur roundabout).
Cabo Airport Travel Time Estimator
Select your destination area to see the average travel time from SJD.
The Main Tourist Zones
These are the most common destinations within the Los Cabos municipality.
San José del Cabo (Hotel Zone & Downtown)
Estimated Time: 15-25 minutes
Why: This is the first major area you reach after leaving the airport. It’s a quick and easy trip to the historic downtown and the beachfront hotels located in San José.
The Tourist Corridor
Estimated Time: 20-40 minutes
Why: This 20-mile stretch of highway connects the two towns. The travel time depends entirely on where your resort is located. Resorts closer to San José (like Palmilla) are a 20-minute trip, while resorts closer to Cabo San Lucas (like The Cape) can take up to 40 minutes.
Cabo San Lucas (Medano Beach & Downtown)
Estimated Time: 40-50 minutes
Why: To reach the heart of Cabo San Lucas, including the main swimmable Medano Beach and the bustling marina, your transfer will need to travel the full length of the Tourist Corridor.
The Pacific Side
Estimated Time: 50-65 minutes
Why: This exclusive area, home to resorts like the Waldorf Astoria Pedregal and Nobu, is located on the other side of the Cabo San Lucas marina. Reaching it requires navigating through or around the city, adding extra time to the journey.
The Outliers & Day Trips
These popular destinations require a longer journey from the airport.
The East Cape
Estimated Time: 60-75 minutes
Why: The new frontier of luxury, home to the Four Seasons at Costa Palmas, is located in a different direction from the main tourist zones. The drive takes you north from the airport along a more remote highway.
Todos Santos
Estimated Time: 1.5 – 2 Hours
Why: This famous “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Town) is a popular day trip destination. The drive requires first heading towards Cabo San Lucas and then taking the new highway up the Pacific coast.
La Paz
Estimated Time: 2 – 2.5 Hours
Why: The capital city of Baja California Sur is a significant drive north of the Los Cabos airport, making it a popular multi-day trip for many visitors.
Knowing these real-world times allows you to book your transportation with confidence and helps you decide if that far-flung, secluded resort is truly worth the extra journey! Happy travels!
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