How to Plan the Perfect Roadtrip Itinerary in Los Cabos (Expert Tips + Route Ideas)

If you're dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, cactus-studded deserts, and winding coastal roads, there's no better destination for an overland adventure than Los Cabos. Crafting the perfect roadtrip itinerary in Los Cabos will ensure you experience everything this region has to offer. Located at the southern tip of Baja California Sur, this region offers the perfect blend of rugged beauty and cultural richness. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time overlander, having a well-planned itinerary can make or break your experience.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to build a memorable roadtrip itinerary in Los Cabos—plus, we’ll share a sample 5-day route to help you hit the road with confidence. Whether for a long weekend or an extended stay, your experience will be unforgettable.

1. Define Your Roadtrip Goals

Before diving into routes and stops, ask yourself what kind of trip you want.

• Are you looking for surf and adventure? You’ll want to head to the East Cape or explore remote beaches near Shipwrecks and Punta Perfecta.

• Traveling with kids or as a couple? Choose family-friendly spots like Playa La Fortuna or Cabo Pulmo, where you’ll find amenities and easy access to the water

  Want something off-grid and unplugged? Consider a route through mountain ranches or remote desert coastline.

The key to building the right Los Cabos roadtrip itinerary is understanding your travel priorities. Time of year also matters—winters are cooler and ideal for camping, while summer brings heat and humidity, requiring more water and shade.

2. Choose Your Route and Key Stops

Los Cabos offers a surprisingly diverse landscape for overland travel. While the beaches near San José del Cabo are popular, the real gems lie beyond the pavement.

Here are some must-consider locations for your itinerary:

🌊 Cabo Pulmo

A national marine park perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Camping is available right on the beach at Playa Arbolitos, where you can wake up to the sound of waves and hike to tide pools.

🏖️ Playa La Fortuna (East Cape)

This is one of the easiest remote beaches to reach, with soft sand, reliable surf, and a laid-back vibe. You'll find a couple of local restaurants and surf shacks, making it ideal for a relaxed first night.

🌄 Rancho Sol de Mayo (Sierra de la Laguna)

Take a break from the beach and head inland to this natural reserve. The main attraction is a crystal-clear freshwater pool beneath a desert waterfall. Camping is available nearby.

🌅 Todos Santos (Optional Extension)

A boho surf town known for its galleries, waves, and relaxed vibe. Great for a night of boutique shopping or dining after days of camping.

Each of these spots connects via scenic backroads or light off-road trails, perfect for Baja Overlander rigs equipped with rooftop tents and recovery gear.

3. Where to Camp and Sleep

One of the best parts of overlanding Baja is the freedom to camp in epic locations. Here’s what to consider:

• Beach Camping: Many East Cape beaches allow free or donation-based camping. Choose flat spots above the high tide line, and respect local fishermen and residents.

• Eco Ranches: Places like Sol de Mayo offer basic amenities like toilets, fresh water, and shaded areas, ideal for families or first-timers.

• Remote Boondocking: For the more adventurous, Baja offers countless spots accessible only via dirt roads—just make sure you’re self-sufficient.

Baja Overlander’s fully-equipped rigs come with rooftop tents, solar showers, recovery gear, and kitchen setups, so you’re ready for remote nights under the stars.

4. What to Pack for a Los Cabos Roadtrip

Being prepared is key to enjoying your roadtrip. Here’s a quick list of essentials:

🛠️ Roadtrip Basics:

• Offline GPS maps (like Gaia GPS or Maps.me)

• Plenty of drinking water (20+ liters)

• Headlamps or lanterns

• First aid kit

• Snacks and extra fuel if going remote

🏕️ Overland Gear:

• Rooftop tent or ground tent

• Shade tarp or awning

• Cooler or fridge

• Portable stove and cookware

🌊 Adventure Gear:

• Snorkel mask & fins

• Hiking shoes

• Lightweight wetsuit (for spring/fall surf)

• Beach towels and reef-safe sunscreen

When you rent a vehicle through Baja Overlander, most of these essentials come included—so you can travel light and focus on the experience.

5. Sample 5-Day Roadtrip Itinerary in Los Cabos

Here’s a flexible, beginner-friendly itinerary that starts and ends in San José del Cabo:

Day 1 – Playa La Fortuna

• Pick up your vehicle in San José del Cabo.

• Drive 45 minutes to Playa La Fortuna.

• Set up camp and enjoy an easy first night by the ocean.

• Option to take a surf lesson or grab tacos from a local stand.

Day 2 – Cabo Pulmo

• Drive north along the coast (~2 hours via East Cape Road).

• Set up camp at Playa Arbolitos inside Cabo Pulmo National Park.

• Go snorkeling, walk the trails, or relax on the beach.

Day 3 – Cabo Pulmo to Sol de Mayo

• Drive ~2.5 hours inland via Santiago.

• Arrive at Rancho Sol de Mayo and explore the waterfall and hiking trails.

• Camp in the shade and recharge with fresh mountain air.

Day 4 – Return Toward San José del Cabo

• Make your way slowly back toward the coast.

• Optional detour to Miraflores or local hot springs.

• Camp at a beach closer to town for a final oceanfront night.

Day 5 – Return Vehicle

• Pack up and head back to Baja Overlander HQ.

• Option to stop for brunch in San José del Cabo.

Final Tips for Your Los Cabos Roadtrip Itinerary

• Be flexible: weather, road conditions, and vibes can all change your plans.

• Always carry cash for small towns or donation-based camp spots.

• Respect the land—leave no trace, pack out your trash, and support local businesses.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Planning your own roadtrip itinerary in Los Cabos is easier when you’re equipped with the right tools, routes, and local insight. Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring canyons, or just craving Baja’s unique mix of wild and peaceful, Baja Overlander has the gear—and the guidance—to get you there.

👉 Want a ready-made route? Click here to check out this roadtrip itinerary for an overland trip in Los Cabos—perfect for 4 nights and 5 days of Baja adventure.