Cabo Airport (San José del Cabo International Airport, code SJD) is one of the key gateways to the stunning Baja California Sur, welcoming travelers eager to dive into the region's natural wonders and vibrant culture. Divers embarking on a liveaboard to the legendary Socorro Islands, seeking mobula rays and sea lions in La Paz, or heading to Cabo Pulmo will start their journey by flying into SJD. It's also the entry point for those seeking family-friendly encounters with gray whales in San Ignacio Lagoon or exploring the artistic charm of Todos Santos, a Pueblo Mágico rich with history and natural beauty.
Guide for Arrivals into Cabo San Lucas Airport (SJD)
We've been through the Cabo Airport countless times on the way to lead our Travel with Bluewater group trips and have put together this guide so you'll know what to expect when you land, can navigate the airport with expert ease, and focus on your holiday ahead.
Customs Declaration and Entry Process
Complete the paper Mexico customs declaration form (make sure you bring a pen!). You can complete it while you wait in line, but we recommend filling it out while you're on the plane before arriving. Present the completed form to a customs officer. At the customs desk, you will press a button that will determine whether or not you need to scan your bags. Green means you are clear to go through, and red means you must stop for a quick bag scan. Note that any baggage that looks like it may contain camera equipment will likely be pulled aside for inspection.
Airport Internet (Wi-Fi)
Connect to free Wi-Fi throughout the Cabo Airport, so you won't miss a beat when communicating with family or friends, checking Google Maps, or uploading your first holiday photos to social media. You can also buy a roaming package with your mobile carrier before you leave home, ensuring steady access throughout your trip (in areas with cellular service coverage). Most US carriers, including AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, offer low-cost data plans for travel to Mexico. As always, if you don't purchase a roaming package, make sure you have roaming turned off in your phone settings to avoid any costly charges.
Duty-Free Shopping
Find the duty-free shop after you leave immigration but before the baggage collection area. Buy your duty-free items before you collect your luggage; once you enter baggage claim, you can't go back to the duty-free store. If you're purchasing alcohol, it's important to know the maximum allowance is three liters of alcohol per person.
Currency Exchange and ATMs
Exchange your dollars to pesos at the cambio (money changer) in the baggage claim area, but only if you arrive earlier in the day, as it closes mid-afternoon. We recommend simply withdrawing cash at one of the four ATMs in the arrivals hall after customs. The Citibanamex ATM typically offers the best exchange rate.
Camera Tax Scam
We have experienced issues with customs officers attempting to charge a tax for bringing cameras into Mexico. This is not a legitimate charge, and we recommend not packing camera equipment in easily identifiable camera cases. Your travel advisor can offer suggestions to help navigate the situation. You can also visit our complete guide to the Mexico camera tax.
Transportation Options
How can you get from the Cabo Airport to your hotel, resort, or other accommodation option? Once you exit the arrivals hall, you'll find a range of transportation options to choose from:
- Taxis and Shuttles: Find the official taxi and shuttle stand outside the arrivals hall, to the right. Take a private or shared shuttle to any destination in San José del Cabo, Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos, and La Paz.
- Prearranged Transfers: If you have already booked your transfer in advance, your driver will be waiting outside under one of the numbered "umbrellas." Make sure you ask what number your driver will be at when you book the transfer.
- Car Rental: If you've arranged a rental car, all the rental companies are located within five minutes of the airport and offer pickup and drop-off services for added convenience.
- Uber: Drivers are not permitted to pick up passengers at the airport, and any attempts to do so can lead to unpleasant confrontations with taxi drivers. We strongly recommend starting your holiday off as smoothly as possible by using one of the above options. If you still choose to use Uber, you must walk outside the airport property to meet the driver.
Food & Drinks
Sit back and relax at one of several open-air restaurants and bars if you arrive hungry or have some time to kill. Enjoy a refreshing cerveza, ice-cold margarita, or a light meal.
Convenience Store
Pick up some snacks and drinks at the Oxxo convenience store right outside the airport for the transfer to your final destination. You can also look for small essential items you forgot to pack.
Weather Considerations
Baja California Sur is warm and sunny throughout most of the year, with some occasional rain. We recommend you bring sunscreen and a hat and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. There is plenty of shade to shelter from the sun while you wait outside the arrivals hall.
Airport Hotel
There is no hotel in the airport, but if you’re looking for a convenient hotel near the airport, we recommend Hotel Aeropuerto Los Cabos. Located just five minutes away, it provides a complimentary shuttle service; simply call reception after clearing customs, and they’ll arrange pickup. The hotel offers spacious, clean rooms to ensure a comfortable stay.
With these tips in hand, navigating your arrival at San José del Cabo International Airport (SJD) will be a breeze. From clearing customs to arranging transportation and finding nearby essentials, this guide has you covered so you can jump right into your Baja adventure. Enjoy your holiday and safe travels!
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