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Los Angeles, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $1: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Los Angeles, United States
to
Santa Monica, United States

How to Get from Los Angeles to Santa Monica: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$1 by busBest price
14.4 kmDistance
17m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Los Angeles to Santa Monica with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Metro Los Angeles
Tram
Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$2-2
Recommended
Company
Metro Los Angeles
Bus
Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$1-2
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 14.4 km
Duration: 17m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$2-5
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$85-110
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Los Angeles to Santa Monica

Your journey from Los Angeles to Santa Monica encapsulates the vibrant hustle of city life and the laid-back charm of California’s famous coastline.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Santa Monica features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct attractions for visitors.

Downtown Santa Monica
• Home to the iconic Santa Monica Pier
• Great shops and dining options abound
Montana Avenue
• Boutique shopping with a local flair
• Charming cafes perfect for people-watching
Ocean Park
• Close proximity to beautiful beaches
• Cozy, laid-back atmosphere with parks

Best Times To Visit Santa Monica's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Santa Monica's attractions.

Santa Monica Pier
Early mornings or weekdays offer quieter access to rides and views.
Third Street Promenade
Visit during weekday afternoons to enjoy shopping with fewer crowds.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
Late afternoons, particularly on Thursdays, typically see lighter attendance.

Santa Monica Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Monica enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with pleasant temperatures year-round, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach outings. The best times to visit are spring and fall when you can experience sunny days with less tourist traffic, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining in Santa Monica: A Culinary Contrast

Head to Cassia for an unforgettable fusion of Southeast Asian flavors and coastal California cuisine, showcasing dishes steeped in local ingredients like fresh seafood and vibrant herbs. This restaurant's lively atmosphere and unique flavor profiles create a dining experience distinct from the trend-driven eateries of Los Angeles.

Los Angeles - Santa Monica operators

Explore transport companies operating between Los Angeles and Santa Monica, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Train from Historic Broadway Station to Downtown Santa Monica Station

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$2-2
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from 5th / Hill to Wilshire / 11th

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$1-2
Contact phone
+1 310-451-5444
Website
http://bigbluebus.com

Bus from Grand Sb & Venice Ns to Santa Monica Wb & Lincoln Ns

Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$1-1
Taxi
Contact phone
+1-800-822-8294
Website
null

Taxi from Los Angeles to Santa Monica

Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$85-110
Contact phone
+1-805-258-8937
Website
http://rosietaxicab.com

Taxi from Los Angeles to Santa Monica

Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$85-110
Contact phone
+1-888-713-5240
Website
http://lacitycab.com

Taxi from Los Angeles to Santa Monica

Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$85-110
Contact phone
+1-800-521-8294
Website
http://lataxi.com

Taxi from Los Angeles to Santa Monica

Average Duration
17m
Estimated price
$85-110

Los Angeles to Santa Monica: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Los Angeles and Santa Monica offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic drive from Los Angeles to Santa Monica along the stunning Pacific Coast Highway, covering a distance of 25.7 km in just about 17 minutes. 💵 Enjoy the affordable journey as prices for the drive range from $2 to $5, making it a budget-friendly option to explore the beautiful coastal route.
Average price
$2 - $5
🚆 Experience a convenient and scenic train journey from Los Angeles to Santa Monica, departing from Historic Broadway Station and arriving at Downtown Santa Monica Station. The services run every 15 minutes, allowing for flexible travel options throughout the day. 🌇 Sit back and enjoy the 50-minute ride as you pass through diverse neighborhoods and iconic landmarks en route to the vibrant city of Santa Monica. Whether you're a local looking for a quick getaway or a visitor exploring the beauty of Southern California, this train ride offers a relaxed and hassle-free travel experience.
Departure Point
Historic Broadway Station
Arrival Point
Downtown Santa Monica Station
🚌 Hop on a direct bus departing from 5th / Hill and arriving at Wilshire / 11th, for a convenient ride from Los Angeles to Santa Monica in approximately 54 minutes. 💵 With prices ranging from $1 to $2 for a bus ticket between Santa Monica and Los Angeles, this budget-friendly option offers a hassle-free and affordable way to travel between these two iconic California destinations.
Departure Point
5th / Hill station
Arrival Point
Wilshire / 11th station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Keep an eye on the Metro Los Angeles schedule, as buses depart hourly from the 5th / Hill station, and consider arriving a bit early to ensure a spot, especially during the busy hours. You can check the schedule here: metro.net
• The journey from Los Angeles to Santa Monica takes about 54 minutes, so bring along a book or download some music to enjoy during the ride; it’s a great way to relax and make the time fly.
• Upon arriving at Wilshire / 11th in Santa Monica, look for the clearly marked bus stops that connect to other parts of the city, and don't miss walking a few blocks to visit the iconic Santa Monica Pier just a short walk away.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Los Angeles to Santa Monica.

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The distance between Los Angeles and Santa Monica is approximately 22 km. The road distance is slightly longer at 25 km. If you are traveling by car, the typical travel time would depend on traffic conditions, but it can take around 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, if you prefer to take a bus, the travel time can be around 35-45 minutes, depending on the specific route and traffic.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Los Angeles to Santa Monica is to take the tram, which costs $2 and takes approximately 50 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to take a taxi, which takes about 17 minutes but costs between $85 and $110.
The prices for a bus ticket from Los Angeles to Santa Monica typically range from $1 to $2.
To get from Los Angeles to Santa Monica without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two cities is about 26 km, which takes approximately 17 minutes by car. The cost of this journey can range from $2 to $5, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Los Angeles to Santa Monica without a car is by taking the tram. The tram journey takes around 50 minutes and costs $2.
Yes, there is a direct link between Los Angeles and Santa Monica. You can take a train operated by Metro Los Angeles, which departs from Historic Broadway Station and arrives at Downtown Santa Monica Station. The journey takes approximately 50 minutes. Alternatively, you can also take a bus operated by Metro Los Angeles, which departs from 5th / Hill and arrives at Wilshire / 11th. The bus journey takes approximately 54 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Santa Monica. With over 1410 hotels available, travelers have a wide range of choices to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels start at $87 per night, making it possible to find an option that fits within different price ranges.
Yes, you can travel from Los Angeles to Santa Monica by bicycle. The distance between the two locations is approximately 22 km. The average travel time by bike can vary depending on your speed and fitness level, but it generally takes around 1-2 hours to complete the journey.