Cabo Airport Transportation: Uber, Shuttles & Best Options

So, you've booked your trip to Cabo, nice! Now comes the part where you figure out how to get from the airport to your hotel. It can feel a bit overwhelming with all the options, right? Whether you're looking for the cheapest ride or something a bit more comfortable, there are definitely ways to get cabo airport to hotel transportation sorted. Let's break down what you need to know so you can start your vacation without any travel headaches. ### Key Takeaways * Uber is not available for pickup directly at the Cabo airport, though some people have used it to get \*to\* the airport. * Shared shuttles are a budget-friendly option, but be prepared for potential wait times and multiple hotel stops. * Private transfers offer a direct, quicker ride to your hotel and can be cost-effective for groups. * Companies like TransCabo and Cabo Safe Ride are frequently recommended for reliable airport transportation. * Booking your transportation in advance is highly recommended, especially for return trips to the airport. ## 1\. Shared Airport Shuttles When you land in Cabo, one of the most budget-friendly ways to get to your hotel is by hopping on a shared airport shuttle. These vans typically carry a dozen or so passengers, making them a good middle-ground between the cheapest bus options and more expensive private rides. **It's a solid choice if you're traveling solo or as a couple and don't mind sharing the ride with others.** Booking in advance is usually the way to go. You'll often find these services listed on sites like Viator, or you can book directly with companies. When you arrive, you'll look for a representative holding a sign or wearing a specific color shirt – they'll guide you to your shuttle. Sometimes, you might have to wait a bit for other passengers to arrive or for the van to fill up, but it's generally not too long of a wait. We've had trips where we were the only ones in the van, which was a nice surprise! Here's a quick look at what you might expect: * **Cost:** Prices can vary, but you're looking at roughly $18 to $30 USD per person for a one-way trip, depending on your destination. Round trips are usually double the one-way fare. * **Wait Times:** While sometimes short, expect potential waits of up to 30-40 minutes as the shuttle fills or makes other stops. * **Comfort:** Most shuttles are air-conditioned, and drivers are generally friendly. Some might offer bottled water for a small fee. > Shared shuttles are a practical option for many travelers. They cut down on individual travel costs and are readily available from the airport. Just be prepared for the possibility of multiple stops before reaching your final destination, as the shuttle will drop off other passengers along the way. Companies like Epic Los Cabos and Gray Line Los Cabos are common providers you might encounter. They often have different rates depending on whether you're heading to San Jose del Cabo, the Tourist Corridor, or Cabo San Lucas. It's worth comparing prices before you book, and remember that booking through a third-party like Viator can sometimes offer good deals and the flexibility of free cancellation. For a stress-free arrival, consider booking your [shared shuttle service](https://www.viator.com/tours/Los-Cabos/Los-Cabos-Shared-Shuttle-One-Way/d627-88845P39) ahead of time. ## 2\. Private Transportation When you're looking for a more direct and comfortable way to get from the airport to your hotel, private transportation is the way to go. **It's often the best value for families or groups, as the cost is per vehicle, not per person.** This means you can split the fare and make it quite affordable. One of the biggest perks of booking a private transfer is that your driver will be waiting for you right after you clear customs. No hunting around or waiting for others. Plus, many services allow for a grocery stop on the way to your accommodation. This is a smart move if you want to stock up on drinks and snacks at regular store prices instead of paying resort markups. It can easily save you over $100. Here's what you can generally expect: * **Direct Service:** No extra stops at other hotels. You go straight to your destination. * **Personalized Welcome:** Often includes a sign with your name and a cold drink waiting. * **Flexibility:** Options for grocery stops or specific drop-off points. * **Comfort and Safety:** You're in a licensed, insured vehicle with a professional driver. > For couples, families, or groups, private transportation often ends up being the most cost-effective option when you consider the value per person. It bypasses the inflated prices you might encounter with unofficial taxis and ensures your vacation starts smoothly the moment you arrive. Booking in advance is key. Companies like [Cabo Premium Logistics](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g150773-Activities-c59-Los_Cabos_Baja_California.html) specialize in these services, offering a range of vehicles to suit your group size. It's a reliable way to start your trip without any transportation headaches. ## 3\. TransCabo TransCabo is one of the original companies offering airport transportation in the Cabo area, and they've built a solid reputation over the years. They've got a pretty big fleet, over 50 vehicles, all pretty new and kept clean with working air conditioning. You can usually spot their representatives easily because they wear bright orange shirts, which is helpful after a long flight. They'll help you with your bags and even offer you a bottle of water. They do offer both shared and private options. For the shared shuttle, they limit it to 10 people per van and usually only make up to three stops. Honestly, sometimes you might even end up with a van all to yourself, which is a nice bonus without paying for a private ride. Here's a look at some of their pricing: **Shared Shuttle Rates (One-Way, Per Person)** | Destination | Price (USD) | | --- | --- | | San Jose del Cabo | $20 | | Tourist Corridor | $22 | | Cabo San Lucas | $26 | | Diamante | $34 | Round-trip shared shuttles are just double the one-way prices. For private transfers, they use Suburbans for up to 6 people or mini-vans for up to 10. A one-way private transfer to the Tourist Corridor in a Suburban costs about $130, while a mini-van for up to 10 people is $125. If you need a car seat, make sure to book that in advance. > TransCabo is a reliable choice, especially if you're traveling with a larger group and need a van. They also have a grocery stop option for private transfers, which can be super handy if you want to stock up on essentials. They've even won awards, like a 2024 Traveler's Choice from TripAdvisor, so they seem to be doing something right. ## 4\. Cielito Lindo Cielito Lindo is a solid choice if you're looking for private transportation from the airport, especially if you're traveling solo or as a couple. They focus exclusively on private SUV or van services, so don't expect any shared shuttle options here. **Booking in advance is a must**, with a 3-day notice for individuals and a 7-day notice for groups. When you arrive, you'll get an email with instructions on how to find your driver, who will be waiting outside the terminal. They make sure the vehicles are super clean, and you'll even find a welcome bottle of cold water waiting for you. It's a nice touch after a flight. Here's a look at some of their pricing for one-way private transfers: | Destination Area | Vehicle Type | Passenger Capacity | Price (USD) | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Tourist Corridor | Mini-van | Up to 2 | $79.50 | | Tourist Corridor | SUV | Up to 4 | $110 | | Tourist Corridor | Van | Up to 6 | $140 | | Tourist Corridor | Minivan | Up to 10 | $115 | | Cabo San Lucas | Mini-van | Up to 2 | $84.50 | | Cabo San Lucas | SUV | Up to 4 | $125 | | Cabo San Lucas | Sprinter | Up to 16 | $190 | | Pacific Side | Mini-van | Up to 2 | $90 | | Pacific Side | Van | Up to 10 | $140 | Round-trip rates are simply double the one-way prices. They also offer a grocery stocking service for your villa, which costs an extra $45 for a half-hour stop. If you're comparing prices for [private roundtrip transfers](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g152515-d13436730-Reviews-Cabo_Lindo_Transport-Cabo_San_Lucas_Los_Cabos_Baja_California.html), Cielito Lindo can be quite competitive, particularly for smaller parties. > They also provide private sightseeing trips to places like Todos Santos and La Paz, which could be a cool way to see more of the area if you're looking to explore beyond your resort. ## 5\. Gray Line Los Cabos  Gray Line Los Cabos is a well-established name in the transportation world, with a history stretching back to 1910. They offer both shared shuttle and private transfer options, making them a flexible choice for getting from the airport to your hotel. If you're traveling solo or as a couple and looking for a budget-friendly way to get around, their shared shuttle service is a solid option. You'll be sharing the ride with other travelers, which means a few more stops along the way, but it definitely cuts down on the cost. For example, a one-way shared shuttle to San Jose del Cabo hotels is around $18 per person, while a trip to Cabo San Lucas can be about $25 per person. Round-trip prices are higher, naturally, with Cabo San Lucas coming in at around $50 per person. **They provide a no-frills, but reliable, transfer service.** While you might not get a complimentary drink, the drivers are generally friendly and stick to the speed limit, which is always a good thing. It's a straightforward way to get to your accommodation without any fuss. Here's a look at some sample round-trip shared shuttle rates: | Destination | Rate per Person | | --- | --- | | San Jose del Cabo | $36 | | Puerto Los Cabos | $44 | | Tourist Corridor | $44 | | Cabo San Lucas | $50 | | Pacific Side | $58 | If you prefer a more direct route, Gray Line also offers private transfers. This means you and your group will head straight to your hotel without any other stops. It's a quicker option, especially if you're eager to start your vacation. You can even book a private transfer in a Tesla if you're looking for something a bit different. > When you arrive at the airport, look for the Gray Line greeters. They usually wear distinctive lime green, blue, and white shirts. If you have trouble finding them amidst the crowd, don't hesitate to ask another company's representative for assistance. They're typically helpful in pointing you in the right direction. Booking through platforms like Viator is common, and it's a good way to secure your spot in advance. Just be prepared for the possibility of multiple hotel stops with their shared service, which can add a bit of time to your journey. ## 6\. Cabo Safe Ride When you're looking for a solid transportation option in Cabo, Cabo Safe Ride really stands out, especially if you're traveling with family or a group. Unlike shared shuttles where you might end up waiting around or making a bunch of stops, private transport with a company like this means the vehicle is all yours from the get-go. One of the cool things they offer, and it's a big money-saver, is the option for a grocery stop. You know how hotel prices for drinks and snacks can add up? Stopping at a Walmart or Costco on the way to your hotel lets you stock up on essentials at regular prices. This can seriously offset the cost of your ride, making it a much more budget-friendly choice than you might think. Here’s a quick look at why private transport with Cabo Safe Ride makes sense: * **No Waiting:** Your driver is ready when you are. * **Cost-Effective for Groups:** The price is per vehicle, not per person, so splitting it among travelers is economical. * **Convenience:** A grocery stop can save you a significant amount of money on your vacation. * **Safety:** You're getting a reliable, insured service with a professional driver. > Booking private transportation in advance, especially with a reputable company like Cabo Safe Ride, is a smart move. It takes the stress out of arriving and ensures your vacation starts smoothly, without any unexpected charges or delays. It's a great way to avoid the 'gringo tax' that sometimes pops up with unofficial taxis. For those who value their time and comfort, pre-booking with Cabo Safe Ride is a really good way to go. It ensures your trip begins the moment you land, without any hassle. You can find out more about affordable transportation options in Cabo on this page [best value for your budget](https://www.cabosaferide.com/most-affordable-transportation-cabo/). ## 7\. Ruta Del Desierto Bus If you're looking for the absolute cheapest way to get from the airport to Cabo San Lucas, the Ruta del Desierto public bus is your ticket. It's a no-frills option, but it gets the job done without breaking the bank. **This is definitely the most budget-friendly choice available.** The bus runs daily and you can catch it at either Terminal 1 (domestic) or Terminal 2 (international) at the airport. Just head up to the departures level if you're arriving internationally, and look for the bus stop outside. If you're flying domestically, the stop is right outside Terminal 1. The journey into Cabo San Lucas usually takes about an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic and how many stops it makes along the way. It's a good idea to give yourself extra time if you're heading back to the airport for your flight. Here's a quick rundown: * **Cost:** Around 90 pesos per person (which is roughly $4.50 USD as of late 2025). It's always a good idea to have some Mexican pesos on hand for this. * **Frequency:** The buses run pretty regularly throughout the day. * **Comfort:** It's air-conditioned and reasonably comfortable, but don't expect luxury. It's a public bus, after all. * **Luggage:** Be aware that space for luggage can be limited, so this might not be the best option if you have a lot of bags. You might have to walk a bit from the terminal to the actual bus stop. > While it's the cheapest option, it's not the most convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are in a hurry. Taxis and pre-booked shuttles are much faster and easier, though they cost more. If you're traveling light and want to save some serious cash, the Ruta del Desierto is a solid choice for getting to [Cabo San Lucas](https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g152516-d8670901-Reviews-Ruta_del_Desierto-San_Jose_del_Cabo_Los_Cabos_Baja_California.html). ## 8\. Uber  So, you're probably wondering about Uber in Cabo. It's a bit of a mixed bag, honestly. While Uber officially started operating in Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo back in October 2018, and there are supposedly over 1,500 drivers registered, it's not as straightforward as you might expect. The main hurdle is the local taxi union. They're pretty powerful and haven't exactly rolled out the welcome mat for Uber. This means you often can't just hop into an Uber right outside the airport terminal. You might have to walk a bit further to a designated pickup spot, and sometimes, drivers aren't even permitted to pick up passengers from the airport at all. It can be confusing, especially when you're tired after a flight and just want to get to your hotel. **Getting an Uber from the airport itself is generally not an option.** However, once you're in town, using Uber for trips between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, or for getting to restaurants and even the grocery store, is usually fine. I've used it myself to grab supplies from the Selecto Chedraui at Puerto Paraiso Mall and head back to my place on Medano Beach. The wait times are typically short – think around 4 minutes – and the cost is pretty reasonable, maybe about $7 USD plus a tip for that kind of trip. Here's a quick rundown of what to expect: * **Airport Pickups:** Generally not allowed. You'll likely need a pre-booked shuttle or private transfer. Trying to get an Uber _to_ the airport can also be tricky. * **In-Town Rides:** Usually works well within Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. * **Pricing:** Can fluctuate, especially during peak season. Surge pricing can sometimes make it more expensive than you'd anticipate. * **Legality:** While it operates, there are ongoing tensions with the local taxi services, which can affect availability and pickup locations. > If you're counting on Uber for your airport transfer, you might want to have a backup plan. It's great for getting around once you're settled, but getting to your accommodation from SJD airport is where things get complicated. Pre-booking a shuttle or private car is usually the safer bet for that initial journey. ## 9\. Legacy Transportation Los Cabos Legacy Transportation Los Cabos is another solid choice if you're looking for a private ride from the airport. They focus on private transfers, so you won't be sharing your vehicle with strangers, which is always a plus after a long flight. **They offer a pretty good deal for one-way private transfers, especially if you're traveling with a few people.** The pricing can be quite competitive, particularly when you compare it to other private options. It's worth checking their rates for your specific destination, as prices can vary depending on how far you're going from the airport. Here's a general idea of what you might expect for a one-way trip: | Destination Area | Passengers | Vehicle Type | Approx. Price (USD) | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Cabo San Lucas Hotels | Up to 5 | Mini-van | ~$75 | | Pacific Side Hotels | Up to 2 | Mini-van | ~$90 | | Diamante Area Hotels | Up to 10 | Suburban/Hiace | ~$162 | Keep in mind these are just examples, and actual prices can change. It's always best to get a direct quote from them. One of the nice things about booking with a private service like Legacy is the convenience. You know your ride is waiting, and you can often arrange for extras like a stop at a grocery store on the way to your hotel. This can be super handy if you're planning on stocking up on snacks or drinks for your stay. > When you're weighing your options, remember that private transfers, while often more expensive than shared shuttles, offer a level of comfort and directness that can make a big difference, especially if you're tired or traveling with a group. ## 10\. Ballard Tour Services Ballard Tour Services is another company that focuses on private transportation for travelers heading to and from the Los Cabos airport. They've been around for a while, building a reputation for getting people to their destinations reliably. If you're looking for a straightforward, private ride without any fuss, they're definitely worth considering. They don't do shared shuttles, so it's just you and your group in the vehicle. This means you can relax and enjoy the ride without making extra stops. The company emphasizes punctuality and aims to make your transfer as smooth as possible from the moment you step out of the airport. Here's a general idea of what they offer: * **Private Airport Transfers:** Their main service is getting you from the airport to your hotel and back. This is ideal if you prefer not to share your ride. * **Customizable Services:** While primarily airport transfers, they can often accommodate other transportation needs within the region if you arrange it in advance. * **Focus on Reliability:** Ballard Tour Services aims to be a dependable option for travelers who want to avoid the stress of figuring out transportation upon arrival. **They pride themselves on providing a comfortable and efficient transfer experience.** When you arrive, you'll typically meet your driver at a designated spot. It's always a good idea to confirm the exact meeting instructions when you book. They generally use comfortable vehicles suitable for individuals, couples, or small groups. While they don't offer the frills like complimentary drinks that some other services do, their focus is on getting you to your accommodation safely and on time. It's a solid choice if you value a no-nonsense, private transfer. ## Wrapping Up Your Cabo Airport Ride So, getting from the airport in Cabo to your hotel is pretty straightforward once you know the deal. Remember, Uber isn't really an option right at the airport, so don't count on that. Your best bet is usually to book a shuttle or a private transfer ahead of time. Shared shuttles are good if you're traveling solo or as a couple and don't mind a few stops, while private transfers are great for families or groups wanting to get straight to their resort. Whichever you choose, booking in advance is key to saving time and avoiding any hassle when you land. Have a fantastic trip!