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Sacramento, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $27: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Sacramento 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.

$27 by trainBest price
622 kmDistance
3h 48m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Sacramento 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
3h  48m
Estimated price
$73-354
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
9h  51m
Estimated price
$27-176
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 622 km
Duration: 3h 48m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
15h  25m
Estimated price
$27-733
Company
various
Plane
Tram
Average Duration
4h  21m
Estimated price
$71-307
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  13m
Estimated price
$90-730
Company
various
Plane
Bus
Tram
Average Duration
5h  44m
Estimated price
$508-1509
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
11h  6m
Estimated price
$731-732
Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
10h  41m
Estimated price
$734-735
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  18m
Estimated price
$736-732
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Traveling From Sacramento to Santa Monica

The journey from Sacramento to Santa Monica offers a striking contrast between Sacramento's vibrant cultural scene and Santa Monica's stunning beaches and relaxed coastal vibe.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Santa Monica features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Santa Monica Pier
• Iconic amusement park with thrilling rides.
• Great dining options with ocean views.
Third Street Promenade
• Lively shopping district with street performers.
• Variety of cafes and eateries to explore.
Ocean Park
• Charming beachside area with a laid-back vibe.
• Close proximity to beautiful sandy beaches.

Best Times To Visit Santa Monica's Attractions

Timing your visit can transform your experience at Santa Monica's popular spots.

Santa Monica Pier
Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Third Street Promenade
Weekdays offer a quieter atmosphere for shopping and dining enjoyment.
Palisades Park
Sunrise is stunning here; fewer visitors and breathtaking views.

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 year-round destination. Planning your visit during spring or fall can enhance your experience as temperatures are pleasant, and crowds tend to be lighter.

Dining in Santa Monica: A Culinary Experience

Head to Cassia, where the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asian cuisine come alive, offering a stark contrast to Sacramento's farm-to-fork emphasis. Here, the lively atmosphere and locally-sourced ingredients create a dining experience that captures the essence of coastal California.

Sacramento - Santa Monica operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
9h 10m
Estimated price
$3541-735

Bus from Bakersfield Train Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
2h 25m
Estimated price
$2782-1761
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Sacramento Bus Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
9h
Estimated price
$1762-732

Bus from Bakersfield Train Station to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$2781-1761
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Sacramento to Los Angeles

Average Duration
14h 23m
Estimated price
$3542-3543

Train from Sacramento to Bakersfield

Average Duration
5h 31m
Estimated price
$2781-3544

Train from Sacramento to Los Angeles Union Station

Average Duration
15h 25m
Estimated price
$3542-733
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.southwest.com/

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$3544-270

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Burbank (BUR)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$3545-7310

Plane from Sacramento (SMF) to Long Beach (LGB)

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
$3546-3547
Tram
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

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

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$277-277

Tram from Del Amo Station to Pico Station

Average Duration
39m
Estimated price
$277-277

Tram from Pico Station to Downtown Santa Monica Station

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$279-279

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

Traveling between Sacramento 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.

🚗 Experience the scenic journey from Sacramento to Santa Monica, covering a distance of 387 miles in approximately 6 hours and 18 minutes. Take in the diverse landscapes as you travel down the highways of California. 💰 The cost of driving from Sacramento to Santa Monica ranges from $70 to $110, offering a budget-friendly option for a road trip adventure. Enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace and stopping at charming towns along the way.
Average price
$70 - $110
🚉 The train services, operated by Amtrak, depart from Sacramento station and arrive at Los Angeles station after approximately 15 hours and 25 minutes of travel time, including necessary transfers. 💸 Prices for the Sacramento to Santa Monica train ticket can range between $27 to $191, offering a convenient and comfortable transportation option for those looking to explore the California coast.
Departure Point
Sacramento station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles station
🛫 Begin your adventure from Sacramento Airport to Los Angeles Airport with a quick direct flight that lasts just 1 hour and 25 minutes. Multiple airlines, including American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta, and Southwest Airlines, provide convenient flight options for this route.
Departure Point
Sacramento Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 Traveling from Sacramento to Santa Monica by bus requires a transfer at Los Angeles Union Station. The journey takes approximately 11 hours and 6 minutes. 🚌 The bus services, operated by Greyhound USA, depart from Sacramento Bus Station and arrive at 5th / Santa Monica in Santa Monica. 🚌 Ticket prices for the Sacramento to Santa Monica bus range from $36 to $110, offering an affordable way to explore the scenic route between these two California cities.
Departure Point
Sacramento Bus Station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Union Station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Sacramento and Santa Monica is approximately 359 miles by air or road. By train, it takes around 15 hours and 27 minutes to reach Santa Monica from Sacramento. If you choose to fly to Los Angeles and then take a bus, the travel time is about 3 hours and 58 minutes. Driving by car takes approximately 6 hours and 18 minutes, while taking a bus directly from Sacramento to Santa Monica takes around 10 hours and 41 minutes.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Sacramento to Santa Monica is by taking a bus and then transferring to the line 4 bus. This option takes around 10 hours and 41 minutes and typically costs between $50 and $70. However, if time is more important to you, the quickest way to reach Santa Monica is by flying and then taking the line 3 bus, which takes approximately 3 hours and 58 minutes and costs between $65 and $350.
The prices for a train journey from Sacramento to Santa Monica range from $27 to $191. On the other hand, bus tickets from Santa Monica to Sacramento typically cost between $54 and $70. It's important to note that these prices are subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check with the relevant transportation providers for the most up-to-date information.
To travel from Sacramento to Santa Monica without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 387 miles. The journey usually takes about 6 hours and 18 minutes by car. The cost of the trip ranges between $70 to $110, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Sacramento to Santa Monica without a car is by taking a train and bus. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 47 minutes. The cost of the trip will vary depending on the specific train and bus services chosen. It is a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive or do not have access to a car.
There is no direct link between Sacramento and Santa Monica by train. However, there are train services available that involve transfers at Union Station - Metro B & D Lines and 7th Street / Metro Center Station - Metro A & E Lines, with a total travel time of approximately 15h 27m. Alternatively, there is no direct bus service either, but there are bus services with transfers at various points, taking approximately 10h 41m. It is also possible to drive between Sacramento and Santa Monica, which typically takes around 6h 18m.
The flight between Sacramento and Santa Monica typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes. This is the quickest option available. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors like the time of booking and airline. On average, the price ranges from $100 to $300.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Santa Monica. With over 1410 hotels available, travelers have a wide range of choices. Prices start at $87 per night, making it accessible for different budgets. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone looking to stay in Santa Monica.

Trips from Sacramento

Trips to Santa Monica