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Santa Monica, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $9: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Monica, United States
to
San Diego, United States

How to Get from Santa Monica to San Diego: 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.

$9 by trainBest price
191.51 kmDistance
2h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to San Diego 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  29m
Estimated price
$15-57
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
4h  52m
Estimated price
$9-89
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 191.51 km
Duration: 2h 16m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$19-42
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  16m
Estimated price
$24-35
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
3h  17m
Estimated price
$62-316
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santa Monica to San Diego

The journey from Santa Monica to San Diego offers vibrant coastal vibes in Santa Monica, while bringing you to the laid-back charm and rich cultural experiences of San Diego.

Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

San Diego boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic architecture and lively nightlife.
• Home to trendy restaurants and boutique shops.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastline and upscale dining options.
• A haven for art galleries and cultural attractions.
Little Italy
• Charming streets filled with Italian eateries.
• Hosts a popular weekly farmer's market.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

Timing your visit can make all the difference at San Diego's top spots.

Balboa Park
Early mornings on weekdays offer quieter paths and fewer visitors.
San Diego Zoo
Visit on weekday afternoons to enjoy shorter lines and better views.
USS Midway Museum
Late afternoons provide a more relaxed experience with smaller crowds.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate that makes it a year-round destination, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rain. Spring and fall present the best opportunities for outdoor adventures, while summer’s warm weather draws larger crowds.

Dining in San Diego: A Taste of Coastal Flavors

At Las Cuatro Milpas, indulge in handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican dishes that showcase the region's local ingredients, offering a heartwarming contrast to the trendy eateries of Santa Monica. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with the aroma of cooking over an open flame, captures the essence of San Diego's rich culinary heritage.

Santa Monica - San Diego operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$13-55
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
metro.net

Bus from 5th / Santa Monica to Patsaouras Transit Plaza

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$2-2
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
greyhound.com.mx

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$17-40
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$5-85
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$190-320
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Diego (SAN)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$180-380

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

Traveling between Santa Monica and San Diego 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.

🚗 Your scenic road trip from Santa Monica to San Diego spans 215.7 km, promising breathtaking ocean views along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 16 minutes, offering a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation behind the wheel. 💰 With prices ranging from $24 to $35 for the drive, the cost-effective route provides flexibility for travelers looking to explore Southern California's stunning coastal gems. From sun-soaked beaches to charming seaside towns, the drive offers a budget-friendly way to soak in the vibrant SoCal vibes.
Average price
$24 - $35
🚂 While there is no direct train from Santa Monica to San Diego, travelers can embark on a scenic journey with transfers along the way. The entire trip, including transfers, typically takes around 4 hours and 52 minutes. 💸 Ticket prices for the train ride between Santa Monica and San Diego range from $9 to $89, providing travelers with affordable options to explore the beauty of Southern California through a relaxing train journey.
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
🛫 Flying from Santa Monica to San Diego is a convenient and quick option for travelers. The quickest flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport only takes 52 minutes.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 The journey from Santa Monica to San Diego by bus requires a transfer at Los Angeles Union Station, taking approximately 5 hours and 51 minutes. 🌴 Route 1 involves a 4-hour 49-minute trip covering a distance of 212.4 km. The first step includes a bus ride towards Downtown LA - Broadway - Venice, followed by another bus towards San Diego. 💰 Prices for the bus between San Diego and Santa Monica range from $15 to $57, offering an affordable and convenient travel option for those exploring the California coast.
Departure Point
5th / Santa Monica station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Monica to San Diego.

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The distance between Santa Monica and San Diego is approximately 192 km by road. The travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes around 4 hours and 52 minutes to reach San Diego from Santa Monica by train, while taking a combination of Line 3 bus and then flying can take around 3 hours and 32 minutes. Driving by car is the fastest option, taking approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes, while traveling by bus takes around 5 hours and 16 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Monica to San Diego is by train, with fares ranging from $8 to $90. Although it takes 4 hours and 52 minutes, it offers a budget-friendly option. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking only 2 hours and 16 minutes and costing between $24 and $35 in fuel expenses.
When traveling from Santa Monica to San Diego, the prices for a train ticket can range from $9 to $89. Alternatively, taking a bus from San Diego to Santa Monica can cost anywhere from $15 to $57.
To get from Santa Monica to San Diego without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance is approximately 216 km and it takes about 2 hours and 16 minutes. The cost of this option varies, with prices ranging from $24 to $35 for a one-way trip.
The best way to travel from Santa Monica to San Diego without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes, and ticket prices range from $8 to $90.
Yes, there is a direct link between Santa Monica and San Diego. By train, the journey takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes, with transfers at Downtown Santa Monica Station, 7th Street / Metro Center Station, and Los Angeles. If traveling by bus, the journey takes approximately 5 hours and 50 minutes, with transfers at 5th / Santa Monica and Los Angeles Union Station.
The flight between Santa Monica and San Diego typically takes around 59 minutes. This is the quickest option available. As for the cost, prices for this direct flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking. On average, tickets for this route can cost anywhere from $60 to $200.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices start at $53 per night, and options range from luxury resorts to cozy boutique hotels. Some popular areas to stay in include downtown San Diego and Mission Bay.