SJD Airport Guide: Your Complete Cabo San Lucas Airport Guide

Everything You Need to Know About Cabo San Lucas Airport

So you're heading to Cabo! Smart choice. We've been through the Cabo San Lucas airport (officially called Los Cabos International Airport or SJD airport) more times than we can count, and let me tell you, it's gotten way better over the years.

Look, here's the thing about SJD airport. It's not huge, but it can feel overwhelming if you don't know what to expect. The good news? We're going to walk you through everything so you can focus on the important stuff, like whether you packed enough sunscreen.

Real talk: this airport serves both Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, so you'll see it called Los Cabos airport too. Same place, different names. Don't let that confuse you.

Getting Through SJD Airport Like a Pro

Arrival: What to Expect

First things first. When you land at the Cabo San Lucas airport, you'll taxi to the gate and walk into the terminal. The immigration lines can be long during peak times (hello, spring break and winter months), but they move pretty quickly.

Pro tip: Fill out your immigration form on the plane. Seriously. It'll save you time standing around looking for a pen while everyone else gets ahead of you.

After immigration, you'll grab your bags and head to customs. Here's where it gets interesting. Mexico has this fun system where you press a button. Green light means go through. Red light means they want to check your stuff. It's totally random, so don't stress about it.

The Timeshare Gauntlet

Fair warning: as soon as you exit customs at SJD airport, you'll hit what we call the timeshare gauntlet. Friendly people will approach you offering "free" transportation and "welcome drinks." Nothing's free, friends. They want to sell you timeshares.

Just smile, say "no gracias," and keep walking. Don't feel bad about it. They're used to it, and you've got vacation time to protect.

Cabo Airport Transfers: Your Options Breakdown

Okay so, getting from Los Cabos airport to your destination is pretty straightforward once you know your options. We've tried them all, so here's the real scoop.

Rental Cars

The rental car counters are right outside the baggage claim area. All the major companies are there: Hertz, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, plus some local ones. Prices run about $25-60 per day depending on the car and season.

Honestly? If you're staying at one resort and not planning to explore much, skip the rental car. Cabo traffic can be intense, and parking isn't always easy. But if you want freedom to explore or you're staying at one of those amazing luxury villas up in the hills, a car makes sense.

Cabo Airport Shuttle Services

Shared cabo airport shuttle services are the budget-friendly option. You'll pay around $15-25 per person, but expect to make multiple stops. These shuttles can take 45 minutes to over an hour depending on how many hotels they hit.

The upside? It's cheap and reliable. The downside? You might be the last stop, and you'll definitely make some new friends whether you want to or not.

Private Transfers

This is our go-to choice, especially if you're traveling with a group. Private transfers cost around $60-80 for up to 8 people to most Cabo destinations. You get picked up right outside the terminal, no waiting, no extra stops.

Pro tip: Book your transfer in advance. You can arrange this through your hotel, online, or through a concierge service. Having someone with a sign waiting for you after a long flight feels pretty great.

Taxis

Official airport taxis are available, but they're pricey. Expect to pay $80-120 to get to the hotel zone in Cabo San Lucas, depending on exactly where you're going. The ride takes about 30-45 minutes.

The taxis are legit and safe, just expensive. If you didn't book anything in advance and need to get moving, they'll do the job.

Terminal Layout and Amenities

Terminal 1 vs Terminal 2

SJD airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 handles most domestic flights, while Terminal 2 is where you'll likely arrive if you're coming from the US or Canada. They're connected, so don't worry if you get confused.

Terminal 2 is newer and has more restaurants and shops. Terminal 1 is smaller but perfectly functional. Either way, you won't be spending tons of time here.

Food and Shopping

Look, airport food is airport food, but there are decent options. Grab a breakfast burrito or some tacos before your flight home. The prices aren't terrible by airport standards.

For shopping, you'll find the usual suspects: duty-free liquor, souvenirs, and overpriced snacks. If you forgot to buy gifts, this is your last chance, but you'll pay tourist prices.

Wi-Fi and Charging

Free Wi-Fi works fine for basic stuff like checking emails or posting that sunset shot to Instagram. There are plenty of charging stations throughout both terminals, which is clutch when your phone's dying and you need to show your boarding pass.

Distance and Travel Times from Los Cabos Airport

Here's what you need to know about getting from the airport to popular destinations:

• Cabo San Lucas (downtown/marina): 30-45 minutes, 20 miles
• San José del Cabo: 15-20 minutes, 8 miles
• Corridor hotels (between the two cities): 20-35 minutes
• East Cape: 45-60 minutes
• Todos Santos: 60-90 minutes

Traffic can add time, especially during rush hour or when cruise ships are in port. Plan accordingly if you have tight timing for dinner reservations or adventures.

Departure Tips: Leaving Cabo Stress-Free

Check-In and Security

Get to the Cabo San Lucas airport at least 2 hours early for international flights, 90 minutes for domestic. The check-in lines can get long during peak travel days, and you don't want to stress about missing your flight.

Security moves pretty efficiently, but they're thorough. Pack your liquids properly and be ready to remove shoes and electronics like any other airport.

Departure Tax

Good news: the departure tax is usually included in your airline ticket now. But double-check with your airline just to be sure. Nobody wants surprise fees when they're trying to get home.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Real talk: buy your souvenirs in town, not at the airport. You'll pay way less at local markets or shops. But if you forgot, the airport shops have the basics: t-shirts, shot glasses, and hot sauce.

Money-Saving Airport Tips

We've learned a few tricks over the years that can save you some cash:

• Book transfers in advance: You'll pay less than grabbing a taxi at the airport
• Bring snacks: Airport food is pricey, and flights to/from Cabo can be long
• Check your airline's bag policy: Some charge for checked bags on Cabo routes
• Use pesos for small purchases: Some airport vendors give better prices in local currency

Special Considerations

Traveling with Golf Clubs or Fishing Gear

Cabo's all about golf and fishing, so the airport handles sports equipment regularly. Most airlines charge extra for golf bags or fishing rods, but the airport has good facilities for oversized baggage.

Private Jet Arrivals

If you're rolling up on a private yacht charter or flying private, SJD has an FBO (fixed-base operator) that handles private aircraft. The service is top-notch, and you'll skip most of the regular airport hassles.

Group Travel

Traveling with a big group? Let your airline know in advance. The check-in counters can get backed up with large groups, especially during peak times. Also, book your ground transportation early. Finding last-minute transport for 12 people isn't fun.

What to Expect During Different Seasons

The Cabo San Lucas airport experience changes throughout the year:

Peak Season (November-April): Longer lines, more crowded, book everything in advance. But the weather's perfect, so it's worth it.

Summer (May-October): Fewer crowds, shorter waits, better deals on transfers. Just pack light clothes and prepare for heat and humidity.

Hurricane Season (June-November): Keep an eye on weather. Flights can get delayed or cancelled, though direct hits on Cabo are rare.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is SJD airport from Cabo San Lucas?

The Los Cabos airport is about 30-45 minutes from downtown Cabo San Lucas, depending on traffic. It's roughly 20 miles, and the drive is straightforward on good roads.

Do I need to book cabo airport transfers in advance?

You don't have to, but we recommend it. Pre-booked transfers are usually cheaper than airport taxis, and you won't have to deal with the timeshare people or figure out transportation when you're tired from traveling.

Is there Uber or Lyft at Cabo San Lucas airport?

Nope. Uber and Lyft don't operate at SJD airport due to local regulations. Your options are rental cars, official taxis, shuttles, or pre-arranged private transfers.

What's the cheapest way to get from the airport to my hotel?

Shared cabo airport shuttle services are usually the cheapest option at around $15-25 per person. Just expect multiple stops and a longer travel time compared to private options.

Can I walk between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2?

Yes, the terminals are connected and it's a short walk. There are also shuttle buses if you have lots of luggage, but most people just walk.

Ready for Your Cabo Adventure?

Look, navigating any airport can feel stressful, but SJD airport is pretty traveler-friendly once you know what to expect. The key is planning ahead: book your transfers, know which terminal you need, and give yourself plenty of time.

Most importantly, remember that your vacation starts the moment you land. Don't let airport logistics stress you out. In a few hours, you'll be sipping margaritas and wondering why you don't live in Cabo year-round.

Safe travels, and enjoy every minute of your time in paradise!