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Laguna Beach, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $11: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Laguna Beach, United States of America
to
Santa Monica, United States of America

How to Get from Laguna Beach 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.

$11 by carBest price
101 kmDistance
1h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Laguna Beach 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
2h  25m
Estimated price
$41-111
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  6m
Estimated price
$11-17
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 101 km
Duration: 1h 6m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Tram
Average Duration
4h  17m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  37m
Estimated price
$0-0
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Traveling From Laguna Beach to Santa Monica

Journeying from Laguna Beach to Santa Monica presents a delightful contrast between the laid-back coastal charm of Laguna's art scene and the vibrant, bustling atmosphere of Santa Monica’s iconic pier and shopping districts.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Monica

Santa Monica’s neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences for visitors.

Pico Boulevard
• Trendy cafes and eclectic shops abound.
• Experience a lively art scene and local events.
Downtown Santa Monica
• Home to the bustling Third Street Promenade.
• Enjoy ocean views and dining options galore.
Ocean Park
• Close to the beach with a relaxed vibe.
• Great parks and outdoor activities for everyone.

Best Times To Visit Santa Monica's Attractions

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

Santa Monica Pier
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Third Street Promenade
Weekdays are ideal to explore shops and eateries without the weekend rush.
Palisades Park
Go during weekdays for a peaceful stroll with quieter scenic viewpoints.

Santa Monica Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Monica enjoys a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it a year-round destination. Typically, the best times to visit are spring and fall, when temperatures are pleasant and crowds are smaller, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation

For a culinary experience that diverges from the fresh seafood and artisanal cafes of Laguna Beach, try the vibrant flavors at Tar & Roses, where wood-fired dishes showcase local ingredients in an energetic atmosphere. This Santa Monica gem offers a unique twist on traditional fare, emphasizing smoke and char that will tantalize your taste buds.

Laguna Beach - Santa Monica operators

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

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

Train from Irvine to Los Angeles

Average Duration
1h 8m
Estimated price
$1-65
Tram
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Tram from 7th Street / Metro Center Station - Metro A & E Lines to Downtown Santa Monica Station

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$1-418

Tram from Downtown Long Beach Station to Pico Station

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$1-418
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 714-560-6282
Website
http://octa.net

Bus from Coast-Laguna to 7Th-Channel

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
0-0

Bus from Downtown Long Beach Station to LAX City Bus Center

Average Duration
1h 51m
Estimated price
$1-418
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from Coast-Laguna to 7Th-Channel

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between Laguna Beach 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.

🚗 Hit the road for a scenic 63-mile journey from Laguna Beach to Santa Monica, enjoying the coastal views along the way. 💰 Depending on traffic and route choice, expect to pay anywhere from $11 to $17 in gas and tolls for the trip. 🏖️ Arrive in Santa Monica after a picturesque 1 hour and 6-minute drive, ready to explore the iconic pier and sandy beaches of this vibrant coastal city.
Average price
$11 - $17
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Laguna Beach to Santa Monica, travelers can embark on a journey that involves transfers at various stations. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 5 hours and 37 minutes. 🌊 Starting from Coast-Laguna, passengers will make stops at Beach Dr & W. Campus S, Downtown Long Beach Station, and finally at LAX New Transit Ctr Bay 1 before arriving in Santa Monica. This route combines different transportation services to reach the destination. 🌴 Laguna Beach to Santa Monica bus services are operated by OCTA and Metro Los Angeles. The trip concludes at LAX City Bus Center station after spending 5 hours and 37 minutes on the road. Travelers can enjoy the journey and the scenic views along the route.
Departure Point
Coast-Laguna station
Arrival Point
LAX City Bus Center station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Laguna Beach to Santa Monica.

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The distance between Laguna Beach and Santa Monica is 53 miles, with a road distance of 63 miles. By taking a train and then a tram, it takes approximately 2 hours and 26 minutes to reach Santa Monica from Laguna Beach. Alternatively, driving by car takes about 1 hour and 6 minutes to travel from Santa Monica to Laguna Beach. If you prefer to use a bus, it takes approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes to reach Santa Monica from Laguna Beach.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Laguna Beach to Santa Monica is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes by car, and the cost ranges from $11 to $17, depending on fuel prices and vehicle efficiency. Driving allows for flexibility and the ability to stop and explore along the way. Other modes of transportation, such as taking a train and then tram or a bus, may take longer and be more expensive.
To travel from Laguna Beach to Santa Monica without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The road distance between the two cities is about 63 miles, and it usually takes around 1 hour and 6 minutes to drive from Laguna Beach to Santa Monica, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost of fuel for this journey ranges from $11 to $17, depending on the average gas prices.
To travel from Laguna Beach to Santa Monica without a car, the best option is to take a train and tram. This journey takes approximately 2 hours and 26 minutes and costs between $40 and $120. By taking this route, you can enjoy a scenic train ride and then transfer to a tram for the final part of the journey. It is a convenient and cost-effective way to travel between the two destinations without a car.
No, there is no direct link between Laguna Beach and Santa Monica. However, there are bus services available that require transfers. The journey starts at Coast-Laguna station and includes transfers at Beach Dr & W. Campus S, Downtown Long Beach Station, and Lax New Transit Ctr Bay 1. The total travel time for this route is approximately 5 hours and 35 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Santa Monica. With over 1410 hotels to choose from, visitors will have a wide range of choices. Prices for hotels in this area start at $87 per night, making it possible to find something within most budgets. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are many options available to suit different preferences and needs.

Trips to Santa Monica