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Carlsbad, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $7: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Carlsbad, United States of America
to
Santa Monica, United States of America

How to Get from Carlsbad 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.

$7 by trainBest price
143 kmDistance
1h 43m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Carlsbad 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
various
Train
Tram
Average Duration
3h  2m
Estimated price
$8-78
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  6m
Estimated price
$7-82
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 143 km
Duration: 1h 43m

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$13-52
Company
Metrolink
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  15m
Estimated price
$18-62
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
1h  43m
Estimated price
$18-27
Company
various
Train
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
4h  13m
Estimated price
$63-80
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Traveling From Carlsbad to Santa Monica

The journey from Carlsbad to Santa Monica presents a delightful contrast between Carlsbad's serene beaches and Santa Monica's vibrant boardwalk lifestyle.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Santa Monica boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering something special for visitors.

Third Street Promenade
• Lively shopping and dining hub
• Frequent street performances and entertainment
Ocean Park
• Laid-back beach vibe with local cafes
• Scenic views and coastal trails
Santa Monica Pier
• Iconic amusement park rides and games
• Picturesque sunsets and ocean views

Best Times To Visit Santa Monica's Attractions

Timing your visits to Santa Monica's hotspots can greatly enhance your experience.

Santa Monica Pier
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and stunning sunrises or sunsets.
Third Street Promenade
Afternoons during weekdays offer a quieter shopping experience compared to weekends.
Pacific Park
Weekday evenings are ideal for enjoying rides and games with shorter lines.

Santa Monica Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Monica enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it an inviting destination. The best times to visit are during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and crowds are lighter, allowing for a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Monica

For a taste of Santa Monica, head to Cassia, where you can savor their mouthwatering Malaysian-inspired barbecue crab dish, a bold departure from the fresh seafood offerings of Carlsbad. The vibrant atmosphere and emphasis on local ingredients at Cassia elevate the dining experience, showcasing the eclectic flavors that define Santa Monica's culinary scene.

Carlsbad - Santa Monica operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Oceanside to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$8-78

Train from Carlsbad Village Station to San Diego - Old Town

Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
$8-78
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from Oceanside station to L. A. Union Station

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$7824-783
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Oceanside Transportation Center to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$786-787

Bus from Cesar E Chavez / Alameda to 5th / Santa Monica

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
$781-781
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Oceanside Transportation Center to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$786-86
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from 7th Street / Metro Center Station to Downtown Santa Monica Station

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$781-782

Bus from Patsaouras Transit Plaza to 5th / Santa Monica

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$781-782
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.united.com/

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

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$180-81
Website
https://www.delta.com/

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

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$82-80

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

Traveling between Carlsbad 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 picturesque road trip from Carlsbad to Santa Monica, covering a scenic driving distance of 101 miles. Enjoy the journey that takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes, filled with stunning views along the California coastline. 🌊 The prices for the road trip from Carlsbad to Santa Monica by car range from $18 to $27, giving travelers flexibility in choosing their preferred budget and route options. Whether you opt for a leisurely drive or a quick getaway, there are plentiful opportunities to explore and unwind upon reaching Santa Monica.
Average price
$18 - $27
🚂 Starting from Carlsbad there is no direct train to Santa Monica. The journey involves transfers and takes approximately 3 hours and 2 minutes. 🌴 Finally, a light rail ride on the Metro E-Line from 7th Street / Metro Center Station to Downtown Santa Monica Station completes the trip to the vibrant destination of Santa Monica.
Departure Point
Oceanside station
Arrival Point
Downtown Santa Monica Station
🛫 Flying from Carlsbad to Santa Monica involves a short trip from San Diego Airport to Los Angeles Airport. The quickest direct flight lasts just 1 hour and 2 minutes.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 The journey from Carlsbad to Santa Monica by bus takes approximately 5 hours and 10 minutes with transfers along the way. 🚌 The service is operated by Greyhound USA and Metro Los Angeles, making stops at Oceanside Transportation Center and Patsaouras Transit Plaza before reaching 5th / Santa Monica station. 🚌 While there is no direct bus route, travelers can expect a comfortable and scenic trip with fares ranging from $13 to $52 for the 120-mile journey.
Departure Point
Oceanside Transportation Center station
Arrival Point
5th / Santa Monica station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Carlsbad and Santa Monica is 89 miles or 100.5 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train and tram, it takes approximately 3 hours and 4 minutes to reach Santa Monica from Carlsbad. By car, it takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes to travel from Santa Monica to Carlsbad. If taking the bus, the travel time is longer, averaging around 5 hours and 5 minutes from Carlsbad to Santa Monica.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Carlsbad to Santa Monica is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes to reach Santa Monica by car, and the cost is estimated to be between $18 and $27 for fuel. This option provides the flexibility to travel at your desired time and enables you to make stops along the way if needed. Additionally, it is the fastest way to reach your destination, saving you time compared to other modes of transportation such as train or bus.
The prices for a bus ticket from Santa Monica to Carlsbad can range from $13 to $52, depending on the specific bus company and the type of ticket purchased. It is recommended to check with different bus companies or online platforms to compare prices and find the best deal. Additionally, prices may also vary depending on the season or time of day, so it's advisable to plan and book in advance to secure the best price for your trip.
To get from Carlsbad to Santa Monica without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 101 miles, and it takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete the journey by car. The prices to rent a car and drive from Carlsbad to Santa Monica can range from $18 to $27, depending on the rental company and type of vehicle chosen.
To travel from Carlsbad to Santa Monica without a car, the best option is to take a train and tram. The journey takes around 3 hours and 4 minutes and the cost can range from $7 to $80. This route allows you to enjoy a comfortable and scenic ride through Southern California without the hassle of driving or finding parking in Santa Monica. Make sure to check the train schedule and book your tickets in advance for a smooth and convenient trip.
There is no direct link between Carlsbad and Santa Monica. However, there are several options for travel. The most convenient option is to take a train from Oceanside to Downtown Santa Monica Station, with transfers at Union Station and 7th Street / Metro Center Station. This journey takes approximately 3 hours and 4 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive from Carlsbad to Santa Monica, which takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes. Finally, there is a bus service available, with a journey time of approximately 5 hours and 5 minutes, including transfers at Oceanside Bus Stop and Patsaouras Transit Plaza.
The flight between Carlsbad and Santa Monica is typically a quick one, taking only 1 hour and 3 minutes. The most convenient option is to fly from San Diego Airport to Los Angeles Airport. The cost of a flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of booking, but typically flights between these cities can range from $100 to $300. It is recommended to check with different airlines and travel websites for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Santa Monica. With over 1410 hotels to choose from, you can find something that fits your budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Santa Monica start at $87 per night, offering a range of affordable and luxury options. Whether you prefer beachfront resorts, boutique hotels, or budget-friendly accommodations, there is something for every traveler in Santa Monica.

Trips to Santa Monica