How to Get to Cedros Island — Flights, CBX & What to Expect

Planning a trip to Cedros Island and wondering how to get there? You’re not alone — it’s the first question every angler asks.

Cedros Island is one of the most productive sportfishing destinations on the Pacific coast — but it’s remote by design. That’s exactly why the fishing is so good. Getting there requires a flight, which means the guests who make the trip are serious anglers looking for a genuine experience, not a crowded day-boat out of San Diego harbor.

The good news: getting to Cedros Island is simpler than most people expect. Here’s exactly how it works when you book a trip with Cedros Sportfishing With Toro.

Where Is Cedros Island?

Cedros Island sits approximately 60 miles off the coast of Baja California, Mexico — roughly halfway down the Baja Peninsula. It was designated a Mexican Biosphere Reserve in 2016, which means commercial fishing pressure is strictly managed and the marine life is abundant. The only way to fish the island is to book through one of the licensed operations based on the island itself.

The nearest mainland reference point is the Baja California coast. From San Diego, you’re looking at roughly a 2-hour flight once you’re in the air — but the journey starts at the border, not the airport.

How to Get to Cedros Island — Step by Step

Step 1 — Cross the Border via CBX

Your journey begins at the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) bridge in Otay Mesa, California — just 15 minutes south of downtown San Diego. CBX is a pedestrian bridge that connects directly to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ), bypassing the standard border crossing entirely.

Here’s what to know about CBX:

Purchase your CBX access ticket online in advance at cbxconnect.com (approximately $18–20 each way)
Bring a valid US passport
The crossing itself takes 5–10 minutes
Parking is available at the CBX facility 24/7 at approximately $18/day

CBX is the cleanest, fastest way to access Tijuana International Airport from San Diego. No long border lines, no traffic — just a quick walk across the bridge and you’re in the terminal.

Step 2 — Fly from Tijuana to Cedros Island

From Tijuana International Airport, you board a small commuter plane bound for Cedros Island. The flight takes approximately 2 hours and lands directly at the island’s airstrip.

What to expect on the flight:

Small aircraft — typically a Grand Caravan or similar commuter plane
Capacity is limited, which is part of what keeps groups small and the experience personal
Luggage is limited — pack light and smart (more on what to pack below)
Toro coordinates all flight bookings as part of your package

You don’t need to figure out the airline or booking — that’s handled for you.

Step 3 — Arrive at Cedros Island

When you land, Toro’s team meets you at the airstrip and transports you to the lodge. From that moment on, everything is taken care of — meals, fishing, drinks, and gear. Your only job is to fish.

What Toro Handles for You

This is where booking with Toro is different from trying to arrange a Cedros Island trip on your own. Here’s what’s included and coordinated on your behalf:

✅ Round-trip flight coordination from Tijuana to Cedros Island
✅ CBX logistics guidance before your trip
✅ Mexican fishing license — handled for every angler
✅ Airport pickup and transport on the island
✅ All lodging, meals, open bar, and fishing during your stay
✅ Fish cleaning, vacuum sealing, and packing for the flight home

You show up at the CBX bridge. Everything else is handled.

→ See the full list of what’s included: What Your Trip Includes →

What to Pack for a Cedros Island Fishing Trip

Because you’re flying on a small commuter aircraft, packing smart is important. Here’s what to bring and what to leave home.

Gear

2–3 rod and reel setups (surface iron, yo-yo, and bait are the primary presentations)
Tackle box with your preferred lures — Tady 45s, Salas 6X, swimbaits for calico bass
Rods, reels, tackle, and live bait are provided — bring your own gear only if you have personal preferences

Clothing

Light layers for early mornings on the water — it can be cool before the sun comes up
Sun protection: long-sleeve shirts, buff/neck gaiter, quality polarized sunglasses
Hat with full brim
Comfortable shoes for the panga — no flip flops
Casual clothes for evenings at the lodge

Personal Items

Seasickness medication if you’re prone — take it the night before, not the morning of
Sunscreen (reef-safe recommended)
Personal medications
Valid US passport
CBX access ticket (purchased online before departure)
Cash for tips — guides, lodge staff, and fish processing crew

What NOT to Bring

Oversized luggage — soft duffel bags pack better than hard cases on small aircraft
Excessive tackle — live bait and gear are provided, you don’t need to bring everything
Alcohol — the open bar is fully stocked, save the bag space

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport to get to Cedros Island?

Yes. A valid US passport is required for all international travel, including the CBX bridge crossing into Mexico and the flight to Cedros Island.

How much does the CBX crossing cost?

CBX access tickets are approximately $18–20 each way and must be purchased online in advance at cbxconnect.com. Parking at the CBX facility is approximately $18 per day.

Do I need a Mexican fishing license?

Yes. A valid Mexican fishing license is required for all anglers. When you book a trip with Toro, your fishing license is coordinated as part of the process — you don’t need to obtain it yourself.

How long is the flight from Tijuana to Cedros Island?

Approximately 2 hours. The flight departs from Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) and lands directly at the Cedros Island airstrip.

Can I bring my own fishing rods?

Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own gear. Rods, reels, tackle, and live bait are provided for all anglers regardless — bring your personal setup only if you have specific preferences.

What is the luggage limit on the flight to Cedros Island?

Small commuter aircraft have luggage restrictions. Pack in soft duffel bags rather than hard cases, and keep your setup to one rod tube and one duffel if possible. Toro’s team will provide specific luggage guidance when you book

Ready to Book Your Cedros Island Trip?

The logistics are simpler than you think — and Toro’s team handles everything from the moment you confirm your dates. All you need to do is show up at the CBX bridge.

View 2026 Packages & Availability

Questions before you book? Message Toro directly on WhatsApp.