✈️ How to Get to CBX from Los Angeles [2025 Guide]
If you’re flying out of Tijuana International Airport (TIJ) and live in Southern California, the Cross Border Xpress (CBX) offers a seamless and affordable way to cross into Mexico without dealing with congested land ports. Many Los Angeles residents choose CBX for cheaper international flights and direct connections to Mexico, Central, and South America.
In this detailed 2025 travel guide, learn how to get to CBX from Los Angeles, including transportation options, ticketing info, parking, border crossing requirements, and tips for a hassle-free experience.
📍 What Is CBX and Why Use It?
The Cross Border Xpress (CBX) is a pedestrian skybridge that connects a terminal in San Diego, California, directly to Tijuana International Airport (TIJ). Open only to ticketed TIJ passengers, it allows you to skip the San Ysidro land crossing and walk straight into the airport terminal after U.S. customs.
✅ Key Benefits of Using CBX:
- Avoid long lines at land border crossings
- Direct access to Tijuana Airport
- Saves time and money for international flights
- Secure, efficient, and U.S.-side check-in access
🛣️ 1. Driving from Los Angeles to CBX Terminal
Driving is the fastest and most flexible way to get to CBX from Los Angeles.
- Distance: ~130–145 miles (depending on your starting point)
- Drive Time: ~2.5 to 3.5 hours (traffic-dependent)
- Route:
- Take I-5 S or I-405 S to I-805 S
- Merge onto CA-905 E
- Exit at Britannia Blvd, follow signs to CBX
🚗 CBX Address:
2745 Otay Pacific Drive, San Diego, CA 92154
Use Google Maps or Waze and search “CBX Otay Mesa Terminal” for accurate navigation.
🅿️ 2. CBX Parking Options in 2025
The CBX facility offers multiple parking lots with 24/7 surveillance and shuttle service to the terminal.
| Lot Type | Daily Rate (2025 est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| General | $20–$25/day | On-site, walkable distance |
| Premium | $30–$35/day | Closest to terminal entrance |
| Long-Term | $15–$18/day | Farther but cheaper, includes shuttle |
🅿️ Tip: Pre-book your parking on the CBX website for best rates and guaranteed spots.
🚌 3. CBX Shuttle from Los Angeles (2025 Options)
Don’t want to drive? Take a CBX Shuttle from Los Angeles or surrounding cities.
🛎️ Shuttle Services Available:
- CBX Official Shuttle (operated in partnership with Intercalifornias)
- Tufesa – Premium service with daily schedules
- Greyhound/Megabus – Connect to San Ysidro, then Uber/Lyft to CBX
- Private Vans/Ubers – Book through travel services or directly via apps
🎫 Typical Shuttle Details:
- Pickup Points: Downtown LA, East LA, Huntington Park, Santa Ana
- Fare: $30–$55 one-way (2025 rates)
- Travel Time: 3.5 to 5 hours (with stops)
🚌 Pro Tip: Some shuttle packages include CBX bridge tickets — check before booking.
🚆 4. Can You Take the Train to CBX?
There is no direct train to CBX, but you can use Amtrak to get close.
🚉 Option:
- Amtrak Pacific Surfliner from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego Santa Fe Depot
- Transfer via taxi, rideshare, or local transit to CBX (Otay Mesa) — about 25 miles further east
This option is not ideal for most travelers due to multiple transfers but may work if you’re avoiding driving altogether.
🛃 5. What You Need to Cross CBX in 2025
To use the CBX pedestrian bridge, travelers must meet these requirements:
🧾 Documents Required:
- Valid boarding pass for a flight departing from or arriving at TIJ (Tijuana Airport)
- Passport (U.S. or international)
- FMM (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) for Mexico:
- Free if your stay is under 7 days
- Fill it out online before arriving or at the CBX terminal
🎫 CBX Bridge Ticket:
- One-way: ~$20
- Round trip: ~$36
- Family pack (4 people): ~$70
- Buy online, on-site kiosks, or bundled with shuttle or airfare
⏱️ 6. Best Times to Use CBX
- ✅ Best Days: Midweek (Tuesday–Thursday)
- ✅ Best Times: Early morning (before 8 AM) or late evening (after 9 PM)
- 🚫 Avoid: U.S. holidays, especially December 25 and December 31, unless you enjoy the festive rush. Hotels near CBX offer gala dinners on Christmas and New Year’s Eve if you’re staying overnight.
🏨 7. Where to Stay Near CBX Terminal
If you plan to fly early or arrive late, here are CBX-area hotels with shuttle options:
- Hampton Inn by Hilton – Otay Mesa
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Otay Mesa
- Quality Suites San Diego Otay Mesa
🛎️ Many hotels offer parking discounts or CBX transfer packages when you stay overnight.
📌 Final Thoughts: Best Way to Reach CBX from Los Angeles in 2025
The best way to get to CBX from Los Angeles in 2025 is by driving directly to the Otay Mesa terminal or using a CBX shuttle service. With affordable parking, minimal border delays, and faster airport access, CBX is the top choice for Southern Californians flying internationally via Tijuana.
Whether you’re traveling to Mexico City, Guadalajara, Cancun, or beyond, CBX makes the process smooth and stress-free.
🔍 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use CBX without a flight from Tijuana Airport?
No. CBX is exclusively for ticketed passengers traveling through TIJ.
Q: Do I need a visa to use CBX if I’m a U.S. citizen?
No visa is required for Mexico stays under 7 days, but an FMM form is needed.
Q: Are pets allowed through CBX?
Yes, as long as they comply with both airline and customs regulations.
Q: How early should I arrive at CBX before my flight?
Arrive 3–4 hours before your TIJ flight, especially during holidays.
Q: Is CBX open on Christmas and New Year’s?
Yes, CBX operates 365 days a year, but expect long lines on December 25 and December 31. Plan accordingly.
Sources
- Cross Border Xpress (Official Site)
- CBX Shuttle & Partner Transport Providers
- Amtrak Pacific Surfliner
- Tijuana International Airport (TIJ)
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection