Heading to Cabo? Your first thought is likely to Google “flights to Cabo San Lucas.” However, many travelers are surprised to find they can’t actually fly into Cabo San Lucas — rather, the nearest airport is the Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), located a short distance from Cabo San Lucas in San Jose del Cabo.

San José del Cabo, like Cabo San Lucas, is located at the southern tip of Baja California Sur. Together, these two destinations make up Los Cabos — one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico! Below, we’ve rounded up all the logistics you’ll need to know to fly into Cabo, including arrival and departure tips, transportation options, and the distance of the airport to Villa La Estancia Resort.

Key Takeaways

  • Los Cabos International Airport, located in San Jose del Cabo, is 27 miles from Villa La Estancia Resort in Cabo San Lucas. The drive typically takes 40 to 55 minutes.
  • Los Cabos International Airport welcomes domestic and international flights at 19 boarding gates, offering nonstop service to the U.S., Canada, and Europe with major commercial airlines, including American, United, and Southwest Airlines.
  • After passing through immigration and customs, you can get to Villa La Estancia Resort from Los Cabos International Airport via private transportation, shared shuttles, taxis, or rental cars.

How Far Is Villa La Estancia Resort from the Airport?

Aerial view of Villa La Estancia Resort with pools, palm trees, and the ocean

Villa La Estancia Resort & Spa is about a 27-mile (or 43-kilometer) drive from the Los Cabos International Airport. Depending on traffic, the drive can take 40 to 55 minutes. However, the drive itself is simple — take the Carretera Transpeninsular (Mexican Federal Highway 1) south, known to locals and visitors as the Tourist Corridor, which is lined with luxury resorts, golf courses, and beaches.

Though the drive from the airport to Cabo San Lucas might feel long — it’s worth it! Once you arrive at Villa La Estancia Resort, you’ll be right on the sandy shoreline of Medano Beach and walking distance from top attractions in Cabo, including the Cabo San Lucas Marina and the shopping, dining, and nightlife downtown.

Quick Facts About the Los Cabos International Airport

Airplane parked at the gate, viewed through Los Cabos International Airport terminal windows
  • Major commercial airlines serving Los Cabos International Airport include American Airlines, Delta, United, Aeroméxico, Southwest, JetBlue, and Air Canada.
  • Los Cabos Airport has 19 boarding gates, as well as duty-free shops and restaurants.
  • Los Cabos International Airport welcomes both domestic and international flights and offers nonstop service to various destinations in Mexico, the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
  • The airport in San Jose del Cabo is 45,000 square meters, with free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal and a VIP lounge available for those with paid memberships and credit card perks.

Wait… What About the Cabo San Lucas International Airport?

Airport shuttle bus parked at the curb at night

When searching for flights to Cabo San Lucas, you might come across the Cabo San Lucas International Airport (CSL), located 4.5 miles northwest of Cabo San Lucas. However, unlike the Los Cabos International Airport, which is a hub for major commercial airlines, the Cabo San Lucas International Airport mostly handles private aviation and charter flights and has limited passenger amenities.

So yes… while this airport is technically closer to Cabo San Lucas, it’s not a realistic option for most travelers who are visiting Cabo (unless you’re planning on flying your private jet!).

Transportation Options: Getting to and from the Los Cabos International Airport

Silver sedan parked outside the airport terminal for private transfer service

Private Transfers

Private transfers offer direct service from the airport to Downtown Cabo San Lucas (or even the front entrance of Villa La Estancia Resort!). While this pre-arranged option generally comes with the highest price tag, it’s a great option for families and groups who want to start their trip with zero hassle.

Shared Shuttles

Shared shuttles are a great option for travelers who don’t mind traveling with a small group (and making a few stops along the way) before arriving at their final destination. Shared shuttles start at $13 USD per person, making them an affordable airport transportation option that can be arranged in advance.

Taxis

Official taxis are available at Los Cabos Airport and are an excellent pick for solo travelers, couples, or travelers who didn’t book a shuttle in advance. Expect to wait in line during peak arrival times, and have cash (pesos) on hand to pay the fixed zone-based fee to Medano Beach (usually around $100 for four people).

Rental Cars

Car rentals are available at Los Cabos International Airport and are an ideal choice for travelers who want the flexibility to venture off the resort’s property to explore surrounding towns and destinations on the Baja California Peninsula, like San Jose del Cabo and Todos Santos. Before booking a rental car, read up on insurance requirements, and make note of toll roads along the Tourist Corridor.

Practical Tips for Arriving at the Los Cabos International Airport

  • Immigration — After arriving at the airport, you’ll present your passport and immigration form (FMM). You’ll receive the bottom portion of this form back at the immigration desk. Be sure to hold onto it, as you’ll need to present it when you are departing Cabo San Lucas.
  • Baggage — Head to the baggage carousels to pick up your luggage, and then proceed through customs, where you may be subject to baggage screening before departing the airport.
  • Currency — Unless you need pesos for a taxi ride, we recommend waiting to exchange currency at ATMs attached to reputable local banks (BBVA, Banorte, or Santander). Airport ATMs generally charge high markups and offer poor exchange rates compared to other options.
  • Data Plans— If your cell phone provider (such as Verizon or AT&T) includes free roaming in Mexico, you may not need an eSIM. However, if not, you may need to purchase an eSIM for internet access during your trip to Cabo San Lucas.

Prepare for an Unforgettable Trip to Cabo San Lucas with Cabo Rentals by Jane

Villa La Estancia Resort pool area with palm trees and Land's End rock formations in the background

Though Cabo San Lucas is a bit of a drive from the Los Cabos Airport, you can ensure a smooth journey by booking your transportation ahead of time and confirming your arrival time and transfer plan with your host at Villa La Estancia Resort before check-in — so the team will be awaiting your arrival!

Browse our luxurious rentals at the Villa La Estancia Resort to find the perfect place to stay for your upcoming trip to Cabo, and feel free to reach out for transfer recommendations.