Los Cabos Layover Guide (SJD)

What are you looking for in SJD?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Los Cabos Airport (SJD) is an international airport located in San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico. It’s situated about 11 km (7 miles) from downtown San José del Cabo. The airport officially opened in 1986. Los Cabos is a renowned tourist destination famous for its beaches, luxury resorts, and vibrant nightlife. It’s also known for its stunning desert-meets-sea landscapes and a wide variety of outdoor recreational activities.

Can you leave Los Cabos Airport (SJD) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Passengers on international flights can exit SJD airport during layovers if they have valid travel documents. Most nationalities require a Mexican tourist visa or entry permit (FMM), which can often be obtained on arrival or online. Check requirements for your country and ensure transit times allow immigration processing procedures smoothly. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• El Arco de Cabo San Lucas Take a scenic glass-bottom boat ride to the iconic Land’s End rock arch, marvel at sea lions and vibrant marine life. (Time required: 2–3 hours / Airport to here: taxi, approx. 40 min.)
• Médano Beach Relax on golden sands with clear blue waters, rent a jet ski or paddleboard, and enjoy beachfront bars and live music. (Time required: 2–3 hours / Airport to here: taxi, approx. 35 min.)
• Cabo San Lucas Marina & Downtown Stroll bustling streets lined with shops, cafés and galleries, then admire luxury yachts in the marina at sunset. (Time required: 1.5–2 hours / Airport to here: taxi, approx. 40 min.)
• San José del Cabo Art District Wander cobblestone streets showcasing local galleries, artisan shops and charming plazas in this historic town. (Time required: 1.5–2 hours / Airport to here: taxi, approx. 20 min.)
• Tequila Tasting at Casa de Tequila Sample premium blancos, reposados and añejos while learning about agave cultivation and distillation techniques. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: taxi, approx. 25 min.)
• Todos Santos Day Trip Explore the “Pueblo Mágico” famous for galleries, the Hotel California landmark and quaint cafés on Mission Street. (Time required: 3–4 hours / Airport to here: rental car or private shuttle, approx. 1 hr.)
• Wildlife & Desert Safari Join a 4×4 tour through desert dunes and spotting native wildlife, ending with sunset panoramic views of the coastline. (Time required: 2.5–3 hours / Airport to here: tour pickup, approx. 15 min.)
• Spa Treatment at Airport Hotel Unwind with a quick massage or facial at a nearby airport-hotel spa, ideal for refreshing before your next flight. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: complimentary shuttle or short walk.)

Things to Do in Los Cabos Airport (SJD)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Los Cabos International offers VIP lounges in Terminals 1 and 2 beyond security, featuring seating areas, complimentary snacks, beer, wine and lite cocktails, free Wi-Fi, private restrooms, and a kids’ area. Access via Priority Pass, select credit cards, or day passes (≈900 MXN); maximum stay three hours. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Hotel Aeropuerto Los Cabos sits just 0.5 km from SJD, offering free airport shuttle service, free Wi-Fi, onsite restaurant, outdoor pool and fitness area. Rooms feature soundproof windows, comfortable beds and airport views. As the only hotel adjacent to the terminal, it provides quick layover accommodation for early flights. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Los Cabos Airport has no designated sleeping rooms, rest zones or sleeping pods. Passengers may rest on seating in boarding areas or food courts, but lounges and gates can be noisy and have minimal recline. Earplugs and eye masks are recommended for overnight stays; staff discourage camping in public areas.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available airside in Terminal 1 via Prodigy accounts—log in with your Prodigy username and password. Alternatively, many cafes in the food court offer complimentary Wi-Fi codes with a purchase. Coverage may be spotty; consider mobile hotspots or data plans for uninterrupted connectivity.

SIM/eSIM Card: Upon arrival, Telcel and Movistar kiosks in the baggage claim hall sell prepaid SIMs (≈150–300 MXN), requiring passport registration. Convenience stores like OXXO also stock cards. eSIMs can be purchased online from providers like Airalo or Jetpac, activated pre-flight for instant connectivity. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis operate from the arrivals curb in Terminals 1 and 2; use authorized booths to prepay flat-rate fares to San José (≈MX$350) and Cabo San Lucas (≈MX$600). No Uber services are permitted. Always confirm rates at the kiosk and avoid unlicensed drivers for safety.

Train: There is no train or rail link serving Los Cabos Airport. Ground transport relies on road options including taxis, buses, shuttles and car rentals. (more info)

Bus: Ruta del Desierto buses depart from Terminal 1 (just outside the concourse) every 15–20 minutes, charging MX$80 for airport–San José and MX$37 for San José–Cabo San Lucas journeys. Buses are air-conditioned with ample luggage space. (more info)

Shuttle: Shared and private airport shuttles operate from pre-booked counters in arrivals or online, offering door-to-door service across Los Cabos. Shared shuttles cost ≈US$35–45 per person, with drop-offs at multiple hotels. Private transfers are available for groups and include meet-and-greet assistance.

Car rentals: Multiple major car rental agencies (Hertz, National, Sixt, Fox, etc.) have desks in the arrivals hall. Rentals require passport, valid driver’s license, major credit card and minimum age 21 (surcharge for 21–24). Insurance purchase is mandatory; international drivers can rent at age 25 without exception. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: On-site parking at Terminals 1 and 2 offers uncovered, covered and garage options (approx. $6 USD/day or MX$33–320). Monthly rates are available (~$90 USD). Off-site Park N Fly provides shuttle service to the terminal with similar daily and monthly pricing. All lots are fenced and patrolled.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

SJD Airport does not offer public luggage storage, lockers or left-luggage services within terminals. Travelers must carry bags through security or arrange storage off-site via nearby services in San José del Cabo. Plan accordingly, as there are no secure deposit options on airport premises. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Los Cabos Airport (SJD) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks