What to do in Todos Santos

Baja California Sur has more often than not been known for its reputation as a spring break destination for high school and college students looking to escape the cold weather in March. But not far from famous Cabo San Lucas lies Todos Santos, one of Mexico's Pueblos Mágicos. Popular with fisherman, surfers, and artists, this little town has something for everyone! With this in mind, we have provided you some of our favorite things to do while in Todos Santos. Enjoy the ones that speak to your heart and remember that if you can’t get to all of them, it's more reason for you to come back!

Wander the streets of Todos Santos

The local artisan shops and art galleries that fill the streets of Todos Santos make wandering around town a joy. Spending at least one day or afternoon wandering around town, treating yourself or grabbing some souvenirs for your friends back home. Here's a closer look at some of our favorite shops:

  1. Nomad Chic - If you're looking for anything from dresses to swimsuits to home decor, this place is for you. Originally from Todos Santos, they have now spread their stores all the way north into Sonoma, California!

  2. Etnica - This store offers traditional, handmade items, specializing in leather goods.

Get outside and hike the Sierra de la Laguna mountains 

One of Baja California Sur’s most beautiful but least explored areas, the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve, is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life. Explore the scenery as you hike along the mountain, from dry desert to lush forest as you get higher (this mountain range receives more rainfall than any other part of the peninsula). We recommend hiring a tour guide to take you up the mountains, one who can give you a lot of great information about the local flora and fauna, more than 20 percent of which are endemic to the peninsula. Send us a message for our favorite guide in Baja!

Try surfing at Playa Cerritos

Playa Cerritos may only be a short drive from Todos Santos, but it’s a world of difference when it comes to the waves. This beach offers a gentle beach break and a more adventurous rocky point break that allows both newbies and more advanced surfers to experience Baja’s surf culture. If this will be your first time on a surfboard, we've got you covered. The same guide who will take you up the Sierra de la Laguna mountain is also our surf coach!

Explore the Sea of Cortez

There's a reason why French explorer Jacques Cousteau called the Sea of Cortez “The Aquarium of the World.” Venturing outside of Todos Santos is something you won't regret. Located in the opposite direction of Cabo San Lucas lies La Paz, a popular fishing and diving town that is home to the famous national marine park, Isla Espírito Santo.

Take a day trip to the island and get ready to explore. Tour companies’ offerings will vary between each other, but you can expect to find activities such as snorkeling with sea lion puppies, kayaking the bays, swimming with whale sharks, and dolphin watching on the menu.

Where to Eat

  1. La Esquina - Our absolute favorite place in Todos Santos, this cafe offers healthy food choices with all fruits and vegetables grown organically and local right in their backyard. Their menu focuses on Chiapan coffee, breakfast, sandwiches, salads, soups, smoothies and juices. If you're looking for something refreshing, they also serve beer and kombucha on tap and delicious natural margaritas.

  2. El Compa Chava - Try not to miss this one, literally. This small shack is hard to find but worth the adventure, serving the best ceviche and fish tacos in town.

  3. Tacos y Mariscos El Sinaloense - The smoked marlin tacos are so delicious and fresh, we have yet to order anything else from the menu! But they also specialize in shrimp tacos with their special salsa - soy, jalapeño, garlic and honey.

  4. Los Adobes de Todos Santos - This is an excellent option for dinner - try to sit in the back where the dining room overlooks a beautiful desert garden.

  5. Sky Lounge Bar - At the top of Guaycura Boutique Hotel is a rooftop lounge with a thirst-quenching mango mojito. This is the perfect place to cool down after an entire day of wondering around downtown.

  6. El Faro Beach Club & Spa - Pay for a day pass and enjoy the luxurious Beach Club and Spa at El Faro Beach. They offer poolside service with delicious fresh seafood and ice cold beers.

Individual beach lounges at El Faro Beach Club & Spa.

Individual beach lounges at El Faro Beach Club & Spa.

If you’re looking for the perfect experience for everyone in the family, Todos Santos is the place to go! For the adrenaline junkie, rent a surfboard or take a lesson at Playa Cerritos. For the person who's crazing some downtime, spend the afternoon wondering the sleepy town's art galleries. And for the adventurous spirit, take a day trip to La Paz and include a day at sea swimming with whale sharks. Be sure to check out our upcoming trip to Baja, you won’t want to miss it!

Nick Marranzino