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Fresno, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $22: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Fresno 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.

$22 by busBest price
327 kmDistance
2h 32m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Fresno 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
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
2h  32m
Estimated price
$107-379
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  41m
Estimated price
$22-74
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 327 km
Duration: 2h 32m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  38m
Estimated price
$40-60
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  57m
Estimated price
$46-62
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
6h  38m
Estimated price
$1077-1078
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Traveling From Fresno to Santa Monica

The journey from Fresno to Santa Monica offers a stark contrast between the vibrant urban coastal life and the serene agricultural landscape, each destination showcasing its own distinct charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

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

Santa Monica Pier
• Iconic beachside amusement park
• Great dining and entertainment options
Main Street
• Charming boutiques and cafes
• Lively farmers market on Wednesdays
Montana Avenue
• Upscale shopping and trendy restaurants
• Scenic tree-lined streets ideal for strolls

Best Times To Visit Santa Monica's Attractions

Discovering Santa Monica's attractions is even better with proper timing.

Santa Monica Pier
Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds and a relaxed vibe.
Third Street Promenade
Early afternoons on weekdays are ideal for comfortable shopping and dining.
Palisades Park
Sunsets during weekdays provide breathtaking views without the weekend rush.

Santa Monica Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Monica enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a great destination year-round. While summer brings sunny beach days, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Monica

For a taste that stands out from Fresno’s agricultural flavors, try the fresh poke bowl at Sweetfin, where local ingredients and vibrant flavors come together in a chic coastal setting. The laid-back atmosphere and ocean-inspired menu offer a dining experience that captures the essence of Santa Monica's beach culture.

Fresno - Santa Monica operators

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

Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$1074-1075
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Fresno (FAT) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
3h 27m
Estimated price
$1076-1071
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Fresno Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
4h 45m
Estimated price
$37.84-37.99
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Fresno Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
4h 40m
Estimated price
$37.94-75
Contact phone
+1 833 766 3553
Website
tufesainternacional.com

Bus from Fresno, CA to Los Angeles - Pacoima

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
$40-60
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
metro.net

Bus from Van Nuys / Laurel Canyon to Westwood / Wilshire

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$0-0

Bus from Patsaouras Transit Plaza to 5th / Santa Monica

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Fresno to Bakersfield

Average Duration
2h 8m
Estimated price
$1077-1078

Train from Bakersfield to Santa Monica Pier

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between Fresno 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.

🚗 Starting from Fresno, the scenic drive to Santa Monica covers 220 miles of picturesque California landscapes, offering a taste of the diverse beauty the state has to offer. ⏱️ In approximately 3 hours and 38 minutes, travelers can embark on a road trip filled with adventure, passing through charming towns and stunning vistas along the way. 💸 With prices ranging from $40 to $60 for the journey, a car trip from Fresno to Santa Monica is not only convenient but also budget-friendly for those looking to explore the iconic coastal city.
Average price
$40 - $60
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Fresno to Santa Monica is by taking a direct flight from Fresno Airport to Los Angeles Airport, which has a flight duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes. Both United Airlines and Southwest Airlines operate flights on this route, providing travelers with convenient options. 🏖 Once you arrive at Los Angeles Airport, you can easily continue your journey to Santa Monica via various transportation options such as rental cars, shuttles, or rideshare services. The approximately 10-mile distance between the airport and Santa Monica can be covered in around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Departure Point
Fresno Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 Starting from Fresno the journey to Santa Monica takes approximately 4 hours and 57 minutes with transfers. The services are operated by Tufesa and Metro Los Angeles for a smooth travel experience. 🛤️ The route covers a distance of around 241 miles with varying prices ranging from $22 to $74 for the bus ride. Multiple steps are involved, such as boarding a bus towards Los Angeles Union Station and then transferring to reach Santa Monica Blvd & Avenue of the Stars.
Departure Point
Fresno, CA station
Arrival Point
Westwood / Wilshire station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Fresno and Santa Monica is approximately 203 miles by road. The road distance is slightly longer at 220 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are 6 hours 38 minutes by train and bus, 3 hours 38 minutes by car, and 4 hours 55 minutes by bus. These times may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Fresno to Santa Monica is by taking a bus and line 761 bus which costs between $35 and $50. This option takes approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes. However, if you prioritize saving time, the quickest option is driving, which takes around 3 hours and 38 minutes and costs between $40 and $60. Both options provide convenient and efficient transportation from Fresno to Santa Monica.
The prices of a bus ticket between Santa Monica and Fresno range from $36 to $47. These prices can vary based on factors such as the time of travel and the type of bus service chosen. It is recommended to check with different bus operators and websites to compare prices and find the best deal for your travel.
To travel from Fresno to Santa Monica without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 220 miles, and it takes about 3 hours and 38 minutes by car. The cost of travel by car can vary, with prices typically ranging from $40 to $60 depending on factors such as gas prices and vehicle efficiency. Driving allows for flexibility in terms of schedule and the ability to enjoy scenic routes along the way.
If you are looking to travel from Fresno to Santa Monica without a car, the best option is to take a bus and then transfer to the line 761 bus. This journey typically takes around 4 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $35 and $50. Taking the bus is a convenient and affordable option for reaching Santa Monica from Fresno.
No, there is no direct link between Fresno and Santa Monica. However, there are bus services available with transfers that can take you from Fresno to Santa Monica in approximately 4h 55m. The journey involves departing from Fresno and transferring at Van Nuys/Laurel Canyon and Wilshire/Glendon before arriving at Wilshire/14th in Santa Monica. The bus services are operated by Tufesa and Metro Los Angeles.
The flight between Fresno and Santa Monica is typically a short one, with a direct flight taking approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. However, it's important to note that there are no airports in Santa Monica itself, so travelers would need to fly into Los Angeles Airport and then make their way to Santa Monica. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability, but generally, it can range from around $150 to $300 per person.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Santa Monica. There are more than 1410 hotels available, so you will have a wide range to choose from. Prices start at $87, so there are options available to suit different budgets. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or more affordable options, you will be able to find a suitable place to stay near Santa Monica.

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