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Best Time to Visit Todos Santos

Best Time to Visit Todos Santos

Todos Santos Baja California, Mexico Travel Guide

Climate Patterns

November to May: This period brings mild, dry weather. Temperatures generally range from 60-80°F (15-27°C). Humidity remains low, making for comfortable days and cool evenings. This stretch is widely considered the ideal time to visit, offering clear skies and pleasant conditions for outdoor activities.

June to October: These months are hot and humid. Temperatures often exceed 90°F (32°C). This period also marks the region's hurricane season, with a higher chance of tropical storms and heavy rainfall, especially in September and October.

Ideal Conditions

  • Mild, dry weather from November to May (60-80°F).
  • Dry air for comfortable days and cool evenings.
  • Clear skies make November-May the ideal time for outdoor activities.
  • June to October: Hot, humid, with hurricane risk (temps over 90°F).

Special Weather Considerations

Hurricane Season officially runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity during The month of september and October. If you plan to travel during these months, closely monitor local weather forecasts. Purchasing travel insurance that covers weather-related disruptions is highly recommended.

The Baja sun is strong year-round. Always use high-SPF sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and stay hydrated.

High Season

November - April

Benefits

Perfect weather, sunny days, prime whale watching (Dec-Apr), lively town, full business operation.

Drawbacks

Higher prices for accommodation/flights, more crowds, advance booking necessary.

Shoulder Season

May, June, late Oct, early Nov

Benefits

Good weather (especially May/early Nov), fewer crowds, potential price drops, quieter town.

Drawbacks

June/late Oct can bring heat/humidity, some businesses adjust hours or take breaks.

Low Season

July - September

Benefits

Significant price drops on hotels/tours, very few tourists, quiet atmosphere, secluded experience.

Drawbacks

High heat/humidity, hurricane risk (peak Sept/Oct), some business closures, ocean conditions less ideal.

Ideal Timing for Activities

Whale Watching

December to April offers the best chance to see gray whales, with peak activity from January to March.

Surfing

Consistent waves for beginners and intermediates at Cerritos Beach are generally found from November to May. Advanced breaks can be year-round, depending on ocean swells.

Other Activities

  • Hiking/Outdoor

    November to May for cooler temperatures, more comfortable desert and mountain explorations.

  • Art Walks/Festivals

    Many local art walks and cultural festivals happen during the high season, with favorable weather and more visitors.

  • Beach Days

    Best from November to May for pleasant sun and comfortable temperatures.

  • Fishing

    Good year-round, but specific species are available seasonally. Check with local charters for the best times.

  • Relaxation

    Year-round, with low season offering a quieter, more secluded experience.

Hurricane Season Alert

  • Runs from June 1 to November 30.
  • Peak pastime for tropical storms is in September and October.
  • Monitor local forecasts and consider Travel insurance that covers weather disruptions if traveling during these months.

Local Insight

Get offline maps for Todos Santos and surrounding areas on your phone before arrival for navigation without cell service.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Confirming your visa and entry requirements before travel eliminates last-minute stress. Mexico maintains clear guidelines for visitors, with many nationalities having visa-free entry for tourism.

Visa-Free Entry

Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for tourist stays up to 180 days. A valid passport is standard for entry.

Check Your Nationality

  • United States and Canadian Citizens: No visa needed for up to 180 days.
  • United Kingdom Citizens: No visa needed for up to 180 days.
  • Schengen Area (EU) Citizens: No visa needed for up to 180 days.
  • Australian Citizens: No visa needed for up to 180 days.

Required Documentation

Beyond visa requirements, some standard documents are helpful for smooth entry.

Documentation Checklist

  • Valid Passport: Must be valid for your whole trip.
  • Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM): Visitor card received on arrival; keep the bottom portion.
  • Evidence of Your Departure: Airlines might ask, but immigration rarely checks.
  • Proof of Sufficient Funds: Rarely checked, but always a good practice.

Entry Procedures

Immigration Process

  • For other nationalities, check your local Mexican embassy or consulate.
  • Upon arrival, present your passport and completed THE visitor permit.
  • The FMM card receives a stamp with an authorized stay of up to 180 days. Hold this card carefully.
  • Fishing activities: obtain a Mexican fishing license online or locally.

Fees and Permits

  • No general entry fee exists beyond the Derecho de No Inmigrante (DNI).
  • The DNI fee is typically included in international airline tickets.
  • No specific permits for general tourism activities in Todos Santos.
  • Permits are not standard for general tourism in Todos Santos.

General Recommendations

  • Secure required visas well in advance of your travel date if your nationality needs one.
  • Confirm your passport is not close to expiration; some airlines suggest six months of validity beyond departure.
  • Inform your bank of your your travel dates to avoid card issues.
  • Carry cash for smaller establishments and tips.

Budgeting & Costs

Plan your budget to match your travel style. Todos Santos offers options for many budgets.

Currency Information

  • Official currency: Mexican Peso (MXN), symbol $.
  • Many businesses accept US dollars, frequently at an unfavorable exchange rate.
  • ATMs are available (Banorte, Bancomer).
  • Notify your bank about your trip.

Tipping Expectations

  • Restaurants: 10-15% standard, 20% for excellent service.
  • Bars: 10-15% for drinks.
  • Taxis: Round up the price.
  • Tour Guides: 10-20% of tour cost, or 100-300 MXN per person.

Budget Saving Strategies

Eat at local fondas or street food stalls. Buy food for cooking. Walk or use local colectivos instead of taxis. Visit during the shoulder or low season for cheaper prices.

Health & Safety Considerations

Prioritize your health and safety for a worry-free Todos Santos trip.

Common Health Concerns

The warm climate has specific health considerations. Hydration and food safety are .

The Baja sun is strong. Skin damage from sun and heat illness are concerns. Insect bites are also a possibility.

Prevention Tips

1

Budget Traveler

Experience Todos Santos economically with food from the area and free activities.

Daily cost: $50 - $115

Expect basic accommodations and limited excursions with a price.

2

Mid-range Explorer

Enjoy comfort with varied dining and selected tours.

Daily cost: $155 - $390

Accommodation and flight costs are moderate, with room for tours.

3

Luxury Seeker

Indulge in high-end experiences, fine dining, and private services.

Daily cost: $460 - $1250+

Top-tier hotels, private transfers, and exclusive experiences factor in.

Price Ranges

Category Budget (MXN) Mid-range (MXN) Luxury (MXN)
Accommodation (night) 500-2000 2000-6000 6000-20000+
Meals (per person) 50-150 150-600 800-1500+
Transportation (local) 10-30 50-400 50-150+ (rental car extra)

Attraction Costs

  • Art galleries:Free
  • Beaches:Free
  • Surf lessons:1000-2000 MXN
  • Whale watching/fishing tours:1000-3000+ MXN

Tipping Guidelines

  • Restaurants:10-15% (20% for excellent)
  • Bars:10-15%
  • Hotel bellhops (per bag):20-50 MXN
  • Housekeeping (per night):20-50 MXN

Transportation Costs

  • Local colectivo:10-30 MXN
  • Taxi (within town):50-150 MXN

Daily Food Costs

  • Street food:50-150 MXN
  • Casual eatery:150-300 MXN
  • Mid-range restaurant:300-600 MXN

Money-Saving Tips

Eat at local fondas/street food:Delicious & inexpensive
Cook some meals:Significant savings with kitchen access
Walk or use colectivos:Economical local transport
Visit off-season:Lower accommodation rates, cheaper flights
Enjoy free activities:Beaches, galleries, historic walks
Have small notes:For local purchases and tips

Health Preparedness

  • Consult your doctor or a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip.
  • Maintain up-to-date routine vaccinations.
  • Consider Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Hepatitis B for travel to Mexico.
  • Rabies may be for long-term travelers or those working with animals.
  • Carry anti-diarrhea medication and rehydration salts.

Health & Safety Overview

Todos Santos is generally a very safe town, offering a peaceful environment compared to larger Mexican cities. Most reported crime involves petty theft. However, risk of natural catastrophes and ocean safety need attention.

Medical Access

  • Local Clinic

    Todos Santos has a small Centro de Salud for basic medical necessities.

  • Hospitals Nearby

    For serious issues, well-equipped hospitals are in La Paz or Cabo San Lucas (about a 1-hour drive).

  • Pharmacies

    Pharmacies in Todos Santos offer over-the-counter and some prescription medications.

Water & Food Hygiene

Tap water is generally NOT safe to drink.

Always use bottled or purified water for drinking, brushing teeth, and making ice. Many hotels provide purified water. Carrying a LifeStraw Personal Water Filter is an extra layer of protection.

Eat at reputable establishments with high customer turnover. Choose freshly cooked food, served hot. Avoid raw fruits and vegetables you cannot peel yourself from street vendors.

A mosquito-borne tropical disease is a risk in some tropical areas; protection from mosquito bites is important.

Crime & Safety

  • 1
    General Safety

    Todos Santos is generally safe. Most reported crime involves petty theft.

  • 2
    Precautions

    Stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in dimly lit areas. Secure your valuables, using items such as a Pacsafe Travelsafe Portable Safe, and avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry. Use reputable taxis. No specific neighborhoods within Todos Santos are known as "unsafe."

  • 3
    Emergency Numbers

    General Emergency: 911. Mexican Red Cross (Cruz Roja): (612) 122-1111 (La Paz, for ambulance).

Natural Disaster Risks

The Baja California peninsula is prone to certain natural events.

Risks

  • Hurricanes: August to October. Monitor local forecasts.
  • Earthquakes: Active seismic zone; minor tremors possible.
  • Rip Currents: Pacific Ocean beaches can have strong currents.

Safety Measures

  • Heed local authorities' storm guidance.
  • Swim in designated areas and follow warning flags at beaches.
  • Consider comprehensive Travel insurance.

Consulate & Embassy Contacts

Keep a copy of your home country's embassy or nearest consulate's contact information in Mexico.

U.S. Embassy Mexico City

55-5080-2000

U.S. Consulate General Tijuana

664-977-2000

Canadian Embassy Mexico City

55-5724-7900

Travel Insurance Recommendation

Coverage Types

  • Medical emergencies:Covered
  • Trip cancellation:Covered
  • Lost luggage:Covered
  • Emergency evacuation:Covered

Trusted Providers

  • World Nomads:Popular for international travel
  • SafetyWing:For digital nomads & remote teams
  • Purchase:Highly recommended
  • Coverage scope:Comprehensive policies

Stay Prepared

Keep emergency contact information readily accessible, including your home country's embassy or consulate.
Best Time to Visit Todos Santos. Weather, Seasons, Climate