Exploring Todos Santos and Cerritos: A Perfect Half-Day Escape from Cabo

If you’re craving a taste of authentic Mexican charm away from the busy resort scene, this private tour offers a well-balanced combination of scenic drives, historic sights, and relaxed beach time. For around $178, up to four people can enjoy about five hours of personalized sightseeing, which includes visits to Todos Santos—a vibrant artists’ town—and Cerritos Beach for some laid-back sunshine and a delicious breakfast.

What we love most about this tour is its flexibility and personal touch. The driver, Ricardo, gets high praise for punctuality and friendliness, making the experience feel more like a day out with friends than a typical tour. The chance to walk around Hotel California, snap photos at The Mission of Todos Santos, and hop into shops for unique souvenirs really brings the town’s laid-back vibe home. Plus, the stop at Tequila Sunrise in Todos Santos offers a taste of local flavors, complemented by friendly service and good food.

A possible consideration is the one-hour drive from Cabo San Lucas—if you’re expecting a quick, painless transfer, you’ll be glad to know it’s smooth and air-conditioned. However, if you’re someone who prefers not to spend time in transit, this is actually a highlight, as it provides plenty of scenic views to enjoy along the way.

This tour is a perfect fit for couples or small groups looking to explore without the hassle of large bus crowds. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic local experiences, like browsing artisan shops, tasting tequila, or simply soaking in a charming small-town atmosphere.

Key Points

Private and customizable experience with a personal driver
Includes a beachside breakfast near Playa Cerritos
Ample free time in Todos Santos for shopping, photos, and drinks
Hassle-free round-trip transportation from Cabo San Lucas
Ideal for small groups or couples seeking an intimate outing
Rich in authentic sights and flavors rather than scripted tours

A Deep Dive into the Experience

This tour covers about five hours, making it a perfect half-day escape from the hustle of Cabo San Lucas. The journey begins with pickup at your hotel—Ricardo, the guide, earns praise for being punctual and personable right from the start. The drive to Cerritos Beach takes roughly an hour, during which you’ll enjoy comfortable, air-conditioned transport. This part of the trip is more than just a transfer; it’s a chance to soak in the coastal scenery and anticipate the day ahead.

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First Stop: Cerritos Beach for Breakfast

Arriving near Playa Cerritos, you’ll find a charming restaurant offering breakfast options with an ocean view. This is a highlight as it sets a relaxed tone, with the sound of surf in the background. You might opt for a simple coffee and pastry or a hearty Mexican breakfast—either way, the setting is delightful. The reviews mention the breakfast being part of the fun, with the added bonus of being close to the water.

Second Stop: Todos Santos – The Artistic Oasis

After breakfast, your driver will take you to Todos Santos, a town known for its vibrant arts scene, historic buildings, and bohemian feel. You’ll have at least an hour of free time, but many guests find it so appealing they’d happily stay longer. Here, you can stroll through the streets, visit local galleries, or stop at Hotel California for a photo and a glimpse into the town’s legendary reputation.

Notable stops include The Mission of Todos Santos, a beautiful old mission church that offers a peaceful spot to take in the town’s history. For a fun photo op, don’t miss the Hotel California, which, while surrounded by legend, offers a great backdrop for pictures.

Optional Add-ons and Highlights

Many guests, including those quoted in reviews, mention their enjoyment of tequila tastings at places like Tequila Sunrise. You’ll have the chance to sample local spirits, learn about their production, and enjoy a drink or two. The guide makes it clear that if you want to stay longer at any stop, just ask—this flexibility is a real plus since you’re in a private tour setting.

Last Hour: Free Time and Heading Back

After exploring, you’ll have the option for additional free time—whether to grab a cold drink, buy souvenirs, or simply relax. Ricardo’s friendliness and willingness to customize the trip make it easy to enjoy your preferred pace. The drive back to Cabo is straightforward, with relaxed conversations and scenic views.

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Why This Tour Offers Great Value

The cost of around $178 for a private experience means you’re not sharing your group with strangers, which enhances the comfort and intimacy of your outing. The inclusion of bottled water and air-conditioned transport keeps things comfortable, especially in the warm weather. You also get the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off, saving you time and hassle.

What truly makes this tour shine, however, is the combination of well-paced sightseeing with authentic experiences. From the friendly reception at Tequila Sunrise to the charm of Todos Santos itself, it’s more than just a checklist of sites—it’s about feeling connected to the local culture.

While the price doesn’t include lunch or tips, the value is still high given the personalized attention, the scenic drive, and the relaxed itinerary. Guests consistently praise the guide’s punctuality and personable approach, which turns what could be a standard tour into a memorable mini-adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who want a personalized, laid-back outing. It suits those interested in art, local food, and history, as well as anyone who appreciates a slower pace with time to explore. If you’re seeking a more curated, intimate experience rather than a large bus tour packed with crowds, this is a great choice.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Todos Santos and Cerritos offers a genuine taste of the region’s charm and beauty, combined with the comfort of personalized service. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to experience local flavor, scenic coastal views, and authentic Mexican culture—all at a relaxed pace. The flexibility and friendly guidance make it stand out among many similar excursions, especially if you value quality over quantity.

Whether you’re in Cabo for a few days or your first visit to Mexico, this half-day experience provides an enriching, hassle-free way to connect with the area’s authentic spirit. It’s a nice blend of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing—making for a memorable, well-rounded getaway.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and round-trip transportation from Cabo San Lucas. It’s a private experience, so only your group participates.

How long does the drive from Cabo to Todos Santos take?
The drive is approximately one hour each way, offering scenic coastal views along the route.

Can I stay longer in Todos Santos?
Yes, the guide is flexible—if you’d like more time exploring or shopping, just let them know. The tour includes at least one hour, but additional time can often be arranged.

Is breakfast included?
Yes, the stop near Playa Cerritos includes breakfast at a restaurant with ocean views, adding to the relaxing vibe of the tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s best to book about 12 days in advance to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included. If you appreciate the guide’s service, a gratuity is customary but optional.

Is this tour suitable for children or service animals?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for families or travelers with special needs.

This private half-day trip strikes a nice balance between sightseeing, culture, and relaxation, making it well worth considering if you want an authentic taste of Baja.