The charming West Cape town of Todos Santos has a vibe that manages to feel both timeless and vibrant. Designated a Pueblo Mágico (magical town) by the Mexican government, Todos Santos enchants visitors with its blend of colonial history, bohemian art culture, farm-to-table cuisine, and sun-drenched beaches. It’s a destination where surfers, artists, food lovers, and adventurers all find something to love.
Founded in 1723 with the establishment of Misión Santa Rosa de Todos Santos, the town thrived in the 19th century as a sugarcane hub. Remnants of that era linger in handsome brick buildings and restored haciendas that now house galleries, boutique hotels, and cafés. The historic center is perfect for wandering—cobblestone streets lead past colorful façades, shaded plazas, and hidden courtyards.
Todos Santos is often described as the cultural heart of southern Baja. Over the past few decades, the town has become a haven for painters, sculptors, and musicians, drawn by its light, tranquility, and creative energy. Festivals—from film and music to wine and food—add to the cultural buzz throughout the year. The culinary scene here is another reason to linger. From humble taco stands to acclaimed restaurants garnering Michelin attention, Todos Santos celebrates the best of Baja flavors. Farm-to-table dining is more than a trend; it’s a way of life. Seafood lovers can savor ceviche and grilled fish straight from the Pacific, paired with Baja wines or local craft beer.
Nature lovers won’t be disappointed either. Just beyond the town center, a string of beaches offers endless possibilities. Playa Los Cerritos is famous for its gentle waves, ideal for beginner surfers. Playa La Pastora lures more experienced wave riders, while Playa Punta Lobos is where local fishermen still launch their boats at dawn. Inland, the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve provides hiking trails through canyons, waterfalls, and forests—a striking contrast to the coastal desert.
Day 1: Arrival & Strolling the Historic Center
Highlights: central historic area, plaza, colonial architecture
Arrive in Todos Santos and check into a boutique hotel like La Bohemia Baja, Todos Santos Boutique Hotel, or Villa Santa Cruz (which was recently awarded one Michelin key).
Take a relaxed walk through the historic district, a blend of cobblestone streets, restored colonial buildings, and colorful murals. Visit the town plaza with Misión Santa Rosa de Todos Santos, founded in 1723, and the Centro Cultural, which houses local history exhibits.
In the evening, enjoy dinner on the patio at Jazamango, celebrity chef Javier Plascencia’s farm-to-table restaurant, where fresh Baja flavors meet modern creativity. Cap off the night with a stroll in the plaza, where locals and travelers mingle.
Day 2: Art & Food Immersion
Highlights: art galleries, shopping, award-winning food
Start the morning with breakfast at La Esquina, a local institution where breakfast dishes like huevos rancheros or veggie omelets are served with fresh-squeezed juice. Explore the art galleries that put Todos Santos on the cultural map—don’t miss Galería de Todos Santos or the super hip graphic art gallery La Sonrisa de la Muerte. Stop for lunch at Tre Galline to enjoy rustic Italian fare in a charming courtyard. Visit artisan shops around downtown to browse handwoven textiles, pottery, and Baja folk art.
Oyster lovers will want to head to Oystera for dinner, a Michelin-recommended restaurant set in an old sugar mill with an oyster bar and delightful seafood dishes. End the day with specialty cocktails at La Copa Bar, located in the luxurious and recently remodeled Todos Santos Boutique Hotel.
Day 3: Beaches & Outdoor Adventure
Highlights: beach, surfing, farm-to-table dining
Drive 20 minutes south to Playa Los Cerritos, the region’s best surfing beach. Beginners can take a surf lesson, while experienced surfers ride the consistent breaks. Relax on the sand with a ceviche or fish taco from local beach vendors. Before returning to Todos Santos, dine at Hierbabuena, a lush garden restaurant near Pescadero that emphasizes organic, locally sourced ingredients (many of which come from ther impressive garden on the property).
Day 4: Nature, Relaxation & Farewell
Highlights: stunning hiking, sunset dinner
Join a guided hike in the nearby mountain range of the Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve. This UNESCO site is filled with desert canyons, waterfalls, and mountain vistas.
Head back to Todos Santos and out to the beaches to enjoy a farewell meal at sunset time at The Green Room, a beachfront restaurant on the property of Villa Santa Cruz. Sit with your toes in the sand while you watch the sun go down over the Pacific while you enjoy craft cocktails and delightful seafood dishes.
DBTC Insider Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Peak season runs from November–April when the weather is cooler. Many businesses close down for the summer and hurricane season and reopen in October.
- Reservations: Reservations for hotels and restaurants should be made in advance during peak travel season, especially during the holidays and around events like the Gastrovino wine and food festival in December and the Tropic of Cancer music festival in January.
- Where to Stay: Your choice of hotel will heavily influence your stay. There are several boutique accommodations right in town that exude historic colonial charm and will put you walking distance to shops and restaurants. If you want to stay on the beach, you’ll get a more relaxed, resort feel, but be aware that you will need to drive to get to restaurants, shops, and other sights.