PACIFIC COAST & TODOS SANTOS
Baja California Sur offers a dramatic contrast of stark desert, rugged mountains, and the deep blue Pacific. This region is a sanctuary for artists, surfers, and seekers of authentic coastal Mexican life.
It is a land of stunning natural beauty, from the massive whale migration routes to the tranquil, historic charm of Todos Santos, blending adventure with serene escape.
Most Popular Attractions
Todos Santos Town Core:
Hotel California: The iconic, historic hotel, rumored to be the inspiration for the Eagles’ song (though the band denies it).
Misión Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Todos Santos: The beautifully restored 18th-century Jesuit mission church, the historical and spiritual heart of the town.
Teatro Manuel Márquez de León: A historic, vibrant cultural center and theater, hosting performances and events.
Calle Centenario: The main street lined with art galleries, boutique shops, and historic buildings.
El Faro Beach Club & Spa: A picturesque location for dining and relaxation with stunning ocean views near the town.
Nepomuceno Candelario (Art Gallery): A prominent gallery showcasing local and international contemporary art.
Casa Tota: A traditional, charming boutique hotel and restaurant known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and historic feel.
Todos Santos Inn: A beautifully restored historic building offering a glimpse into the town’s past.
Coastal & Natural Attractions:
Playa Cerritos (Cerritos Beach): The most famous and safest swimming beach in the area, known for its excellent surfing waves for all levels.
Playa San Pedrito: A rugged beach known for its strong surf breaks, popular with experienced surfers.
Punta Lobos: A rugged, scenic headland and beach, historically a fishing port, offering dramatic coastal views.
Whale Watching Tours (Seasonal): Organized boat trips to witness the majestic gray whales migrating along the Pacific coast (December to April).
Turtle Release Programs (Seasonal): Participating in the release of Olive Ridley sea turtle hatchlings into the ocean, primarily at protected beaches near Todos Santos.
La Pastora Beach: A beautiful, quiet stretch of sand, ideal for long walks and enjoying the tranquility of the Pacific.
Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve: Accessible inland from Todos Santos, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring the unique ecosystem of the mountain range.
El Pescadero: A small, agricultural town just south of Todos Santos, known for its fresh produce and relaxed vibe.
Art, Cuisine, & Culture:
The Art Galleries of Todos Santos: Exploring the many independent galleries showcasing painting, sculpture, pottery, and jewelry (e.g., Galería Indigo, Jill McLennan Gallery).
Todos Santos Cooking Classes: Experiencing local culture by learning to prepare traditional Baja cuisine.
Baja Sur Stone Carvings: Visiting local workshops to see unique carvings made from local stones and fossils.
Cuatro Vientos: A local distillery or tasting room specializing in spirits made from regional ingredients.
Jazamango: A well-known farm-to-table restaurant specializing in fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Hierbabuena: A popular organic farm restaurant in El Pescadero offering exceptional garden-fresh meals.
Activities & Experiences
Learn to Surf at Cerritos Beach: Take a lesson or rent a board at the famed Playa Los Cerritos, known for its consistent, beginner-friendly waves, but also suitable for intermediate surfers.
Explore the Historic Art District of Todos Santos: Wander through the charming, cobblestone streets and visit the many art galleries, independent boutiques, and artisan shops housed in restored colonial buildings.
Hike to the Waterfalls in the Sierra de la Laguna: Join a guided hike into the rugged mountains of the Biosphere Reserve to discover hidden oases and seasonal waterfalls.
Go Gray Whale Watching (Winter/Spring): Take a panga (small boat) trip off the coast of Todos Santos or nearby Magdalena Bay to witness the spectacular migration of the California Gray Whales.
Participate in a Sea Turtle Release: Volunteer or observe a guided release of Olive Ridley or Leatherback sea turtle hatchlings into the Pacific Ocean (primarily August through November).
Take a Cooking Class for Baja Cuisine: Learn to prepare authentic regional dishes like fish tacos, almejas chocolatas (chocolate clams), and fresh ceviche from a local chef.
Beachcombing and Sunset Viewing at Punta Lobos: Visit this beautiful, remote stretch of coastline, often frequented by local fishermen, and stay for the dramatic Pacific sunset.
Visit the Iconic Hotel California: Stop by the legendary hotel in Todos Santos, rumored to be the inspiration for the Eagles’ song, for a drink and to browse its unique shop.
Go Deep-Sea Fishing: Charter a boat from nearby ports to fish for prized Pacific species like Marlin, Dorado (Mahi-Mahi), and Tuna.
Practice Yoga or Wellness: Attend a class or a retreat at one of the many studios or boutique hotels that capitalize on the tranquil, spiritual energy of Todos Santos.
Explore Local Produce Markets: Visit the weekly organic market in Todos Santos to sample local produce, artisan cheese, and regional honey, and meet local farmers.
Local Tips & Transport
Car is Essential: A rental car is strongly recommended for exploring the Pacific Coast. Public transport is limited, and a car provides the freedom to visit isolated beaches, hiking trails, and the various points of interest between Todos Santos and La Paz/Cabo.
Driving on Unpaved Roads: Many of the best beaches and attractions are accessed via dirt or unpaved roads (terracería). While an SUV or truck is helpful, most roads are passable with a standard car, provided you drive slowly and carefully.
Getting to Todos Santos: The town is about an hour’s drive north of Cabo San Lucas International Airport (SJD) and about an hour and a half southwest of La Paz International Airport (LAP). Taxis and shuttle services are available but are significantly more expensive than renting a car.
Walking in Todos Santos: The central historic district is small and easily navigated on foot. Parking is available on the street, but you will need a car to reach nearby beaches or attractions like Cerritos.
Local Taxis: Taxis are available in Todos Santos, but they do not use meters. Always negotiate and confirm the price with the driver before getting in, especially for longer trips.
The Pacific Chill: Unlike the protected waters of the Sea of Cortés (Gulf of California), the Pacific Ocean side is generally cooler, with stronger currents and bigger waves. Be mindful of warning flags before swimming, especially at beaches like Todos Santos Bay. Cerritos Beach is the safest spot for swimming/surfing.
Artist Community Vibe: Todos Santos is designated as a Pueblo Mágico (Magic Town) and has long attracted artists, writers, and expatriates. Be prepared for a bohemian, laid-back atmosphere that is much slower-paced and less commercial than Cabo San Lucas.
Dining Times: Dining follows a more typical North American schedule in many of the expat-run restaurants, with dinner often starting around 6 PM or 7 PM. However, traditional Mexican fondas (eateries) and taco stands are often open throughout the day and late into the evening.
Embrace the Desert/Ocean Contrast: Be prepared for the unique ecosystem where the arid desert meets the ocean. You’ll see cardón cacti (a giant species of cactus) right down to the sand. Dress in layers, as the desert nights can be quite cool, even after a hot day.
Water Safety: Do not drink tap water. Stick to bottled water, and make sure ice used in restaurants is made from purified water (hielo purificado).
Hidden Gems:
- Galeria de Ida Victoria: An exquisite gallery showcasing contemporary Mexican art, often hosting evening events.
- The Mission of Nuestra Señora del Pilar: A beautiful, historic church in the heart of Todos Santos, part of the town’s original foundation.
- El Faro Beach Club: Located south of town, this spot offers a more secluded beach experience with stunning views and is great for long walks.
- Baja Beans Roasting Co.: A favorite local stop for excellent coffee, a great place to meet locals and expats, especially during their Sunday market.
Tipping (Propina): Tipping is customary. Leave 15-20% at restaurants, and a few dollars for baggage handlers, guides, and bartenders.
Top Restaurants
Tacos y Mariscos El Sinaloense [$10-$20] – This is a beloved, casual, no-frills seafood shack located on the edge of downtown Todos Santos, renowned for its fresh, incredible aguachile and an array of Baja-style seafood tacos.
Barracuda Cantina [$15-$25] – Situated close to Cerritos Beach in El Pescadero, this trendy beach bar and food truck is famous for its Baja-inspired food, including excellent fish and shrimp tacos and handcrafted cocktails.
Carnitas Machín [$10-$20] – A must-try spot along Highway 19 in El Pescadero for the classic Mexican pork dish; they specialize in traditional, slow-cooked, marinated carnitas served in tacos or gorditas.
El Compa Chava [$15-$30] – A small, highly-rated seafood shack in the Todos Santos area that is consistently praised for serving some of the best ceviche and amazing fish tacos in the region, perfect for a casual lunch.
Fish Taco Santo Chilote [$10-$20] – Known for its excellent Baja-style seafood tacos in Todos Santos, with a standout being the coconut-battered shrimp taco served with unique mango and pineapple habanero salsas.
El Pastorcito [$10-$20] – A popular, no-frills taco joint closer to the center of Todos Santos that is a local favorite for its masterful tacos al pastor—marinated pork roasted on a vertical spit (trompo).
Los Adobes de Todos Santos [$20-$35] – An enchanting traditional Mexican restaurant in Todos Santos that offers classic, high Mexican cuisine, often including regional favorites like chiles en nogada, set in a beautiful desert garden atmosphere.
Miguel’s Restaurant [$15-$25] – A Todos Santos institution with a cute, old-school Baja vibe, famous for what many consider the best chiles rellenos in the region, along with a full menu of traditional Mexican dishes.
Alma y Manny Comida Mexicana [$10-$20] – A fantastic spot for authentic Mexican comfort food in Todos Santos, renowned for homemade tamales, delicious tortilla soup, and other Mexican soul food favorites.
Tiki Santos Bar [$15-$25] – A hidden-gem food stall/tiki bar tucked away in a courtyard in downtown Todos Santos, offering a creative take on traditional Mexican seafood with a raw bar and excellent seafood tacos and burritos.
La Generala [$15-$25] – An authentic Mexican food spot located on the main street when entering Todos Santos, popular for its rich mole and an often-praised lunch buffet.
Loncheria Karla [$10-$20] – A fantastic, high-value local favorite across from the park in Todos Santos for Mexican breakfast like huevos rancheros and incredibly affordable shredded beef tostadas.
Pacifica Fish Market [$15-$30] – A well-regarded, straightforward seafood spot in Todos Santos offering fresh fish, tacos, burritos, and daily specials, often slightly more upscale than a typical roadside stand.
Restaurant Bar Bahía [$15-$25] – Praised for churning out some of the best Baja-style fish tacos in the Todos Santos area, also offering delectable octopus and smoked marlin dishes.
Mi Costa [$15-$25] – A tasty seafood eatery located right in the center of Todos Santos, popular for fresh catch and other seafood dishes.
Las Fuentes [$15-$25] – A charming, long-established restaurant in Todos Santos serving a wide range of Mexican breakfast, lunch, and dinner dishes, set under a large palapa roof.
Los Claros [$15-$25] – One of the many casual, popular seafood restaurants along the Highway 19 in El Pescadero, known for generous portions of battered, grilled, or crunchy fish and shrimp tacos.
Tacos El Poblano [$10-$20] – An authentic taqueria in Todos Santos for street-style tacos, especially popular for its al pastor, with a churro cart available in the evenings.
El Parguito [$10-$20] – Deserving of its ‘best in town’ reputation for traditional Baja-style fish tacos in the Todos Santos area, where even non-seafood eaters rave about the crispy battered fish.
Jazamango [$30-$50] – A true culinary oasis and highly acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant in Todos Santos, owned by a celebrity chef and featuring a seasonal, Mexican-inspired menu with organic produce grown right on the working farm.
Hierbabuena [$25-$45] – Located on a beautiful working farm in El Pescadero, this “field to table” restaurant is set in a stunning garden and specializes in fresh, organic salads and inspired mains, making it excellent for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.
The Green Room [$35-$60] – Located in front of the Pacific at Playa La Pastora, a short drive north of Todos Santos, this restaurant offers a stunning feet-in-the-sand dining experience with excellent seafood and unmatched sunset views.
Oystera [$35-$60] – An upscale and stylish seafood restaurant located in Todos Santos’ oldest sugar mill, specializing in amazing oyster platters, sashimi, ceviche, and refined cooked seafood dishes, ideal for a date night.
Coyote [$30-$50] – An outdoor restaurant in a dreamy “secret garden” setting in El Pescadero, serving elevated, non-Mexican dishes like gyros and pork chops prepared in an Airstream-trailer-turned-kitchen, complemented by craft cocktails and live music.
Agricole Cocina de Campo [$25-$45] – This Todos Santos spot evolved from a roadside produce stall into a full restaurant focused on local, seasonal, and organic ingredients grown on their 37-acre farm.
La Confianza [$25-$45] – A lovely outdoor courtyard in Todos Santos that features natural wines, accompanied by excellent shared plates of local oysters, ceviche, and truffle fries, often with live music.
Mejibó Todos Santos [$25-$40] – A newer, slightly upscale restaurant in downtown Todos Santos that serves elevated, flavorful versions of comfort food with Mediterranean tendencies, utilizing the freshest regional products.
Los Colibris Casitas Restaurant [$25-$45] – Set within a beautiful casita property near Todos Santos, this spot offers refined Mexican cuisine often featuring local catch, with a peaceful ambiance and great views.
Café Santa Fe [$35-$60] – Consistently hailed as one of the best fine-dining experiences in Baja, this restaurant in Todos Santos offers a wonderful Italian menu in a lovely setting.
Benno [$30-$50] – The in-house restaurant at the stylish Hotel San Cristobal, offering creative, elevated Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine in a beautiful setting with stunning Pacific views.
Jazamango Cafe [$15-$30] – A more casual downtown Todos Santos sister spot to Jazamango, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch with a menu featuring fresh chilaquiles, corn pancakes, and strong coffee.
La Casita Tapas And Wine Bar [$25-$45] – Led by a world-class chef, this popular Todos Santos spot offers creative, delicious tapas and a nice selection of wine, combining international flair with local ingredients.
DoceCuarenta Coffee Roasters [$5-$15] – A fantastic coffee roaster and cafe in the Todos Santos area, known for its delicious pastries, excellent brewed coffee, and a great atmosphere for a morning stop or remote work.
Taller 17 [$5-$15] – A small, highly-rated cafe and pastry shop in the center of Todos Santos that is beloved for stellar coffee, iced drinks, and particularly exceptional homemade baked goods like chocolate chip pecan cookies.
Cafelix [$10-$20] – A fabulous Todos Santos breakfast spot that serves hearty portions of Mexican classics like huevos rancheros alongside great Americano coffee, scrambles, and a small lunch menu.
La Esquina Café [$10-$20] – A popular and big gathering spot for locals in Todos Santos, offering a simple cafe menu with sandwiches, soups, smoothies, and strong coffee in a charming garden setting.
Holy Balls [$10-$20] – A small, popular spot in Todos Santos Plaza offering fresh, delicious, and healthy vegan falafel and hummus bowls.
El Burguer Shack [$10-$20] – A very casual, highly recommended burger joint with locations in both El Pescadero and Todos Santos, known for its juicy smashburgers and also offering a great vegetarian burger.
Baja Beans [$5-$15] – A cute cafe just off the highway in El Pescadero, famous for its own roasted coffee, exceptional baked goods, and a large courtyard that hosts a lively weekly Sunday craft market.
Shakti Bowl [$10-$15] – A perfect spot in Todos Santos for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal, focusing on bowls and other wholesome foods.
Caffe Todos Santos [$10-$20] – A charming and long-standing restaurant and cafe located in the heart of the Todos Santos historic downtown district, popular for a casual meal.
Paleteria la Paloma [$5-$10] – Not a restaurant, but a must-visit spot in Todos Santos for homemade ice cream and popsicles (paletas), featuring zillions of flavors like limone/rosemary.
Dūm Todos Santos [$60-$100] – A fine dining experience hidden in the Rancho Corazón area, offering a seasonal, multi-course tasting menu of refined gastronomy with a Baja-French fusion focus, set in a beautiful, atmospheric palm grove.
Tenoch by Paradero Todos Santos [$50-$80] – The restaurant inside the luxurious Paradero Hotel, known for creative and delicious elevated Mexican cuisine, offering a high-end experience in a stunning, modern architectural setting.
Ristorante Tre Galline [$40-$70] – An authentic Italian restaurant in Todos Santos that consistently receives high praise for its classic dishes, like spinach ravioli, and its beautiful indoor and garden dining atmosphere.
El Mirador Ocean View Restaurant [$40-$70] – Located on a hilltop south of Todos Santos, this haute cuisine restaurant offers incredible 360-degree views of the Pacific coast, making it an amazing place for a sunset drink and an elegant dinner.
La Coronela [$35-$60] – The cozy, vibrant restaurant inside the iconic Hotel California in Todos Santos, offering a full menu of traditional Mexican fare with a distinct style.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
La Copa (Todos Santos Boutique Hotel): Located in the heart of Todos Santos, this iconic institution in the historic Todos Santos Inn is known for perfectly executing classical cocktails and new, innovative creations in a spacious, elegant, and timeless setting.
The Terrace (Guaycura Boutique Hotel): Found on the rooftop of the Guaycura Boutique Hotel in the center of Todos Santos, this spot offers spectacular panoramic views of the town, the oasis, and the Pacific Ocean. They specialize in signature cocktails and local wine in a serene atmosphere.
The Green Room (Villa Santa Cruz): A beloved spot a little north of town at Villa Santa Cruz, this casual gem sits right on the beach. It offers strong, fresh cocktails, like a spicy mezcal margarita, with your toes in the sand, set to the sound of the Pacific waves and an unforgettable sunset.
Tenoch (Paradero Todos Santos): Tucked inside the ultra-stylish Paradero Todos Santos near the Pacific coast, this open-air bar is earthy and refined. It specializes in perfectly balanced mezcal cocktails with a stunning desert view, offering an effortlessly cool atmosphere.
La Confianza: A trendy, design-forward natural wine bar in the heart of Todos Santos. It features a list that leans toward Mexican and women-owned natural wine labels, served in a stylish space with a sea-green patio.
Benno (Hotel San Cristóbal): While not technically a rooftop, this open-air beachfront terrace at Hotel San Cristóbal on Playa Punta Lobos provides a “top of the world” feeling. It’s the perfect place to sip a craft cocktail while watching the local fishermen.
Santoro Todos Santos: A stylish, social, and design-forward rooftop bar in Todos Santos with desert-chic aesthetics. It boasts a carefully crafted cocktail list and is an ideal spot to toast the sunset.
El Mirador (Guaycura Group): With a dramatic clifftop location outside of downtown Todos Santos, this venue offers one of the most spectacular, sweeping views of the ocean and desert sky—a must for sunset lovers and mezcal margaritas.
Barracuda Cantina: Located near the surf destination of Playa Cerritos, about 15 minutes south of town, this laid-back, beachside cantina is known for its surf vibes, fish tacos, and great cocktails.
Amaya Beach Bar: Situated on Playa San Pedrito near El Pescadero, just south of Todos Santos, this venue functions as a beach bar, restaurant, and music spot with a rustic, open-air feel. It emphasizes craft cocktails and natural wines.
Oystera: Set in a beautifully restored historic building in downtown Todos Santos, this chic oyster bar and art gallery offers impeccable seafood and a refined setting for enjoying their list of craft cocktails.
Kins Mojito and Martini Bar: Located across the street from the park in Todos Santos, this bar specializes in a unique mix of beverages, ranging from a classic Martini to a coconut Mojito.
The Dirty Rose: A unique, unmarked building with a thatched roof in downtown Todos Santos (across from Shut Up Frank’s), this speakeasy-meets-tiki bar is the main late-night cocktail option and a favorite among the local expat community.
Tiki Santos Bar: Nestled off the beaten path in Todos Santos, this casual spot features a charming sand floor and a thatched-roof palapa. It’s a great place to unwind with a cold beer or a signature Mezcalito cocktail.
Sky Lounge Bar (Todos Santos Boutique Hotel): One of the few true rooftop bars in Todos Santos, offering sweeping views over the pueblo and a glimpse of the Pacific, paired with an elevated cocktail menu, including the signature margarita made with local damiana.
El Faro Beach Club (Guaycura Group): Not a traditional nightclub, but the premier beach club experience on the Pacific, located at Km. 54 of the Todos Santos – Los Cabos highway. It features an infinity pool facing the ocean, impeccable service, and signature cocktails for a full day of lounging and music.
El Santo – Downtown Bar: A dedicated nightlife spot in the center of Todos Santos known for music and drinks. It often hosts live DJ events, providing a livelier late-night atmosphere than most other local bars.
La Coronela Restaurant & Bar (Hotel California): Located at the famous Hotel California in downtown Todos Santos, this bar and restaurant often features live Mexican music, providing a great atmosphere for a spirited evening out.
Todos Santos Brewing: A lively brewery in Todos Santos that focuses on craft beer but regularly organizes fun entertainment, including live music, trivia, and karaoke, making it a bustling evening destination.
Shut Up Frank’s: The consummate sports bar in Todos Santos, located downtown, featuring seven big-screen TVs for sporting events. It has a lively, casual atmosphere perfect for enjoying a beer and a burger.
DŪM (Rancho Corazón): While primarily a high-end restaurant hidden in a jungle-like setting near Todos Santos, its creative cocktail program and intimate, beautifully designed space make it an exciting spot for a luxurious and late-evening dining/drinks experience.
Santos Pecados Restaurant & Bar: Located in Todos Santos, this high-rated spot is a restaurant and bar known for its creative dishes and cozy atmosphere. It’s a great place to start (or end) a night with specialty cocktails and a lively local vibe.
Restaurant Bar Las Fuentes: A traditional, full bar in Todos Santos with an outdoor palapa and a menu of Mexican specialties. It offers a consistently convivial local atmosphere in the downtown area.
Tequila’s Sunrise: Located in Todos Santos directly across from the “Hotel California,” this bar and grill is a popular local spot for drinks, especially for those looking to enjoy a classic Margarita or a beer in a casual setting.
El Refugio Mezcaleria: A cash-only spot in Todos Santos dedicated to artisanal mezcal. While not a club, its constantly changing flight selection and quirky, social atmosphere make it a must-visit for a unique and spirited late-night experience.