FAQs
Is Baja part of the US or Mexico?
Baja California Sur is a state in the country of Mexico. It is called Baja California Sur, which mean Beneath California South, because of its position below Baja California, the other state in the Baja Peninsula. Guess where Baja California got its name -that’s right, because of its position beneath the US state of California, which belonged to Mexico up until the Mexican American War in the mid 1800’s.
How far from the US border is the property?
Todos Santos is located waaay down in the southern tip of the peninsula, about a 22 hour drive from the Mexico-US border.
What airport do I fly into?
You fly into San Jose del Cabo, airport code SJD. Its an international airport located a scenic hour and 15 minute drive from Todos Santos.
Should I rent a car?
Yes, you should definitely rent a car. One of the best things about this area is the vastness, so not everything is within walking distance. And most of the best spots will definitely require a vehicle to get to. Also, Uber doesn’t run in Todos Santos yet. Within the town itself there’s a lot you can walk to, or ride bikes. But the beaches and hiking and diving and surfing all need a car to access. 4x4 or all wheel drive isn’t totally necessary, but it does make things easier. I always rent a small SUV or Jeep when I visit.
Is there a hospital or urgent care clinic nearby?
There is a small St. Jude’s Hospital in town, and larger hospitals an hour away in either direction in both La Paz and Cabo San Lucas. There are also dentists and doctor’s offices and pharmacies. 911 is the emergency number, just like in the US.
Will I need Mexican pesos?
I would highly recommend it. You can order early from your bank or AAA, or you can wait and exchange money at the airport exchange, which doesn’t always give the most favorable exchange rate. Alternately, you can use the ATM at the Bancomer Bank in downtown Todos Santos. Some places take cards, all take cash, it’s easier to have at least some on you. Don’t forget to set a travel notice with your bank so your cards don’t get turned off!
Will my cell phone plan work?
Verizon covers the US, Mexico and Canada in their plans, so if you have them as a carrier you should be fine, its what I have and it works great. I get service at the house and in town, and in most areas of Baja Sur, which means that my GPS works too. Once you get into the mountains or into the Cabo Pulmo area service gets patchy, so always have a paper road map, there’s one for your use at the house. Call your provider and check before you travel!
What is the weather like?
Perfection, if you ask me. Pretty much always dry and sunny during the tourist season, which runs November through June. Daytime 80’s-90, night time 60’s-70. Coolest months are January and February where daytime temps will be low 80’s, dry and breezy. Off season is July through October, it gets very hot and rains if there’s a tropical storm or hurricane. November is the most beautiful month (in my opinion) because after some rain in the previous months the desert springs to life, cacti flower and it is lush everywhere. It’s also the buggiest season, but still far fewer bugs than New Hampshire in June. From April on things start to look really dry and the landscape is a lot more grey and tan, but the weather is also more consistently cloudless and the ocean gets warmer. Might want to bring a wetsuit if you have one and plan to surf during the cooler months…