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Santa Monica, CA, USA to Malibu, CA, USA from $2: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Monica, United States
to
Malibu, United States

How to Get from Santa Monica to Malibu: 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.

$2 by busBest price
20 kmDistance
19m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to Malibu 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
Bus
Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$2-2
Recommended
Company
Metro Los Angeles
Bus
Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$2-2
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 20 km
Duration: 19m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$2-4
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$50-65
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Traveling From Santa Monica to Malibu

The journey from Santa Monica to Malibu offers a refreshing shift from the vibrant, bustling boardwalk atmosphere to the serene, upscale coastal charm of Malibu.

Best Neighbourhoods in Malibu

Malibu's neighborhoods offer a blend of coastal beauty and local charm.

Zuma Beach
• Known for its wide, sandy stretches.
• Great for swimming and sunbathing.
Malibu Colony
• Exclusive beachfront properties and luxury homes.
• Attracts celebrities and high-profile visitors.
Point Dume
• Stunning hiking trails with ocean views.
• Family-friendly beaches and tide pools.

Best Times To Visit Malibu's Attractions

Timing your visit can enhance your experience at Malibu's popular sites.

Zuma Beach
Weekdays in early morning offer quiet sandy spots to relax.
Malibu Pier
Visit during sunset for stunning views and fewer crowds.
Point Dume State Beach
Early spring mornings provide a peaceful hiking experience.

Malibu Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Malibu enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a year-round destination. Visiting in spring and fall offers pleasantly moderate temperatures, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views.

Dining Recommendation in Malibu

For a delightful contrast to the eclectic eateries of Santa Monica, try the locally-sourced seafood at Malibu Farm, located right on the pier. The fresh catch and farm-to-table dishes create a laid-back yet upscale atmosphere that celebrates the coastal lifestyle and highlights California's bountiful ingredients.

Santa Monica - Malibu operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from Ocean / Colorado to Civic Center / Stuart Ranch

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$2-2
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 877.733.3305
Website
https://layellowcab.com

Taxi from Santa Monica to Malibu

Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$50-65
Contact phone
+1 310.444.4444
Website
https://facebook.com

Taxi from Santa Monica to Malibu

Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$50-65
Contact phone
+1 310-444-7777
Website
https://metrocabsm.com

Taxi from Santa Monica to Malibu

Average Duration
19m
Estimated price
$50-65

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

Traveling between Santa Monica and Malibu 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.

🚗 Start your scenic journey from Santa Monica to Malibu, a quick 13-mile drive that offers breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of transportation costs ranging from $2 to $4, making this road trip an affordable and delightful experience.
Average price
$2 - $4
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Santa Monica to Malibu traveling a distance of 23.1 mi in just 55 mins. 🚌 Start your adventure by hopping on the bus towards Malibu - PCH - Trancas. Enjoy a comfortable 45-minute ride on the Bus Metro Local Line, departing from Broadway WB & 3rd FS and arriving at Trancas Canyon / Pacific Coast Hwy.
🚌 The journey from Santa Monica to Malibu by bus is a convenient and efficient way to travel between these coastal cities. 🌊 The direct bus route departs from Ocean / Colorado and arrives at Civic Center / Stuart Ranch, with services operating hourly every day. 🕒 The trip typically takes around 32 minutes to complete. 🚏 Route 1 offers a scenic 56-minute ride covering a distance of 23.3 miles. 🌟 To embark on this route, take the bus towards Malibu - PCH - Trancas, which usually takes about 47 minutes. 🚌 The bus operated by Metro Los Angeles departs from 5th / Colorado and arrives at Trancas Canyon / Pacific Coast Hwy. 💵 The cost of a bus ticket between Malibu and Santa Monica is $2, making it an affordable transportation option for travelers exploring the California coast. 🏖️ For more information on schedules and services, you can contact the LACMTA at 1 466-3876 or visit their website at http://www.metro.net/.
Departure Point
Ocean / Colorado station
Arrival Point
Civic Center / Stuart Ranch station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the Ocean / Colorado station at least 10 minutes early to ensure you catch your bus to Malibu, as buses depart hourly and can fill up quickly due to tourist demand.
• Take advantage of the scenic views during your 32-minute ride by sitting on the left side of the bus, where you'll get a great view of the coastline along the Pacific Coast Highway.
• Upon arriving at the Civic Center / Stuart Ranch station in Malibu, check out the nearby Malibu Library and Malibu Farmers Market (if you're there on Sundays) for local produce and crafts—it's a great way to soak up the local vibe while waiting for your next adventure.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Monica to Malibu.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Santa Monica and Malibu is approximately 17.7 km, with a road distance of 20.3 km. By car, it typically takes around 20-25 minutes to travel between the two cities, depending on traffic conditions. If you prefer to take the bus, the journey usually takes around 35-40 minutes.
The most cost-effective option to travel from Santa Monica to Malibu is by taking the line 134 bus, which costs $2 and takes approximately 31 minutes. This option is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers. Alternatively, for those looking for a faster option, a taxi can take you from Santa Monica to Malibu in just 19 minutes, but it comes at a higher cost of $50-$65.
The price for a bus ticket between Santa Monica and Malibu is $2.
To get from Santa Monica to Malibu without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance between the two cities is 20.9 km, and it takes approximately 19 minutes to drive. The cost of driving from Santa Monica to Malibu can vary, but it is usually around $2 to $4 in fuel expenses.
The best way to travel from Santa Monica to Malibu without a car is by taking the line 134 bus. The bus journey takes approximately 31 minutes and costs $2.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Santa Monica and Malibu. The bus services, operated by Metro Los Angeles, run hourly and have a travel time of approximately 31 minutes. The buses depart from Ocean / Colorado station in Santa Monica and arrive at Civic Center / Stuart Ranch station in Malibu.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Malibu. With over 139 hotels available, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at $69 per night, providing affordable options for travelers.
Yes, you can get from Santa Monica to Malibu by bicycle.

Trips to Malibu