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San Diego, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $14: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from San Diego 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.

$14 by busBest price
191.5 kmDistance
2h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Diego 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
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
3h  58m
Estimated price
$9-88
Recommended
Company
FlixBus, Metro Los Angeles
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  51m
Estimated price
$14-55
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 191.5 km
Duration: 2h 16m

See more options

Company
Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service, Metro Los Angeles
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  12m
Estimated price
$14-55
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  16m
Estimated price
$24-35
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$62-316
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From San Diego to Santa Monica

Traveling from San Diego to Santa Monica offers a delightful shift from San Diego's laid-back beaches and vibrant nightlife to Santa Monica's iconic pier, bustling shopping district, and stunning ocean views.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Santa Monica boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each offering a distinct charm.

Downtown Santa Monica
• Home to the famous Third Street Promenade.
• Offers diverse dining and shopping options.
Ocean Park
• Known for its surf culture and relaxed vibe.
• Features beautiful parks and scenic coastline.
Bergamot Station
• A hub for art galleries and cultural events.
• Offers a unique blend of art and creativity.

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
Weekday afternoons are ideal for a more leisurely shopping experience.
Palisades Park
Early mornings offer tranquility and beautiful sunrise views over the ocean.

Santa Monica Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Monica enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, making it an appealing destination year-round. For the best experience, consider visiting in spring or fall when temperatures are comfortable, and the tourist crowds are lighter.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Monica

For a taste that departs from San Diego's fresh fish tacos, try the seasonal vegetable menu at Tar & Roses, where wood-fired dishes highlight local ingredients in an intimate dining atmosphere. This culinary contrast offers a unique focus on smoky flavors and innovative preparations that showcase the rich ingredients of Southern California.

San Diego - Santa Monica operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Diego 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 San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
2h 56m
Estimated price
$5-85

Train from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
3h 58m
Estimated price
$9-88
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from San Diego to Los Angeles Downtown

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$12-55

Bus from San Diego to 5th / Santa Monica via Patsaouras Transit Plaza

Average Duration
4h 51m
Estimated price
$14-53
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from Patsaouras Transit Plaza to 5th / Santa Monica

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$2-2

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

Average Duration
1h 42m
Estimated price
$2-2
Contact phone
+1 310-451-5444
Website
https://bigbluebus.com

Bus from Aviation/LAX to 4Th Nb & Colorado Fs

Average Duration
56m
Estimated price
$1-2
Plane Show flights
Website
https://united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$180-380
Website
https://delta.com

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

Average Duration
1h 4m
Estimated price
$190-320
all-pages.other Show other routes

Other from San Diego to Los Angeles

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$0-0

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

Traveling between San Diego 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.

🚗 Driving from sunny San Diego to the vibrant city of Santa Monica is a road trip full of scenic views and coastal charm. Covering a distance of approximately 134 miles, this journey is perfect for a weekend getaway. 💸 The cost of this road trip can range from $24 to $35, making it an affordable option for those looking to explore the beauty of Southern California. With plenty of gas stations and eateries along the way, you can fuel up and enjoy delicious local cuisine during your drive. 🏖️ Once you arrive in Santa Monica after a smooth 2 hours and 16 minutes drive, you'll be greeted by its iconic pier, sandy beaches, and lively atmosphere. Explore the famous Third Street Promenade, relax by the ocean, and soak in the laid-back vibe of this beachside destination.
Average price
$24 - $35
🚆 While there is no direct train from San Diego to Santa Monica, you can take a journey with transfers at Union Station and 7th Street / Metro Center Station. The total travel time is approximately 3 hours and 58 minutes. 🎫 The train services from San Diego to Santa Monica are operated by Amtrak, with departures from San Diego station and arrivals at Los Angeles station. The ticket prices for this route range from $9 to $88, offering different options for travelers.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
Los Angeles station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train ride from San Diego to Santa Monica, Amtrak is the primary operator, offering a variety of onboard services. Families can enjoy the café car that sells snacks, light meals, and beverages. It's wise to check the menu beforehand to know what’s available, allowing you to budget accordingly. Visit Amtrak’s website for the menu: amtrak.com
• When booking your tickets, consider the seating options available. Amtrak offers Business Class, which features more spacious seats and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, as well as Economy Class. The seats in Business Class provide extra legroom and are a more comfortable choice for the longer journey. For more details on the seating upgrades, check the Amtrak website.
• Upon arriving in Santa Monica, expect the Santa Monica station to have limited amenities. There are no luggage storage facilities, but you can use restrooms. For local transportation from the station to the city center, the quickest way is to take the Big Blue Bus Line 1 or 3, which runs frequently. The bus stop is easily accessible from the station. For schedules, visit bigbluebus.com
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from San Diego Airport to Los Angeles Airport with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 2 minutes. Choose from flights offered by United Airlines and Delta for a smooth travel experience. 🚗 Upon landing at Los Angeles Airport, you can easily hire a rental car or opt for a shuttle service to Santa Monica, located approximately 15 miles away. Enjoy the scenic drive along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway as you head towards the vibrant city of Santa Monica.
Departure Point
San Diego Airport
Arrival Point
Los Angeles Airport
🚌 Although there is no direct bus from San Diego to Santa Monica, travelers can take a route with a transfer at Patsaouras Transit Plaza. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4 hours and 51 minutes. 🛤️ Route 1 to Santa Monica from San Diego covers a distance of 164 miles and takes about 5 hours and 37 minutes. The first step involves boarding a Greyhound bus towards Los Angeles, which lasts approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes. 🎟️ The second step of the journey includes taking a bus towards Santa Monica from Central / 6th, operated by LACMTA. This leg of the trip lasts around 1 hour and 29 minutes, providing a cost-effective and efficient way to travel between the two cities.
Departure Point
San Diego station
Arrival Point
5th / Santa Monica station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from San Diego to Santa Monica is by driving. The approximate cost for gas is $24-$35 depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency. The driving distance is around 124 miles, and the journey takes about 2 hours and 16 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
The fastest way to travel from San Diego to Santa Monica is by driving. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 16 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost for this mode of transportation ranges from $24 to $35, accounting for fuel expenses. Taking a direct route along Interstate 5 North is the most efficient way to reach your destination.
It is approximately 119 miles from San Diego to Santa Monica. The road distance is slightly longer at 134 miles. This distance can be covered by various modes of transportation such as driving, taking a bus, or using a train. The travel time will depend on the traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen.
The best way to travel from San Diego to Santa Monica without a car is by taking the train. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and ticket prices range from $9 to $90, depending on the type of train and class chosen. There are several trains departing from San Diego and arriving at the downtown Santa Monica station, making it a convenient option for travelers. Additionally, taking the train allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic coastal views along the way.
The journey from San Diego to Santa Monica takes approximately 4 hours, including any transfers or stops along the way. This time may vary depending on traffic conditions and the mode of transportation chosen. It is recommended to plan ahead and allow for some extra time to account for unforeseen delays.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Santa Monica. With over 1410 hotels to choose from, you can find something to fit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $87 per night, but rates can vary depending on the location and amenities of the hotel. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, there is a bus route available between San Diego and Santa Monica but it is not a direct route. The trip includes transfers at Patsaouras Transit Plaza in Los Angeles. The total journey time is approximately 6 hours and 1 minute. It is advisable to check the bus schedules and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth travel experience.
To catch the bus from San Diego to Santa Monica you will need to go to the San Diego station. The bus service for this route is operated by Greyhound Mexico. You can check the Greyhound website or contact them directly for specific departure times and ticket information. It is recommended to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
The San Diego to Santa Monica bus services, operated by Metro Los Angeles, arrive at the 5th / Santa Monica station. This station is located in the heart of Santa Monica, making it a convenient drop-off point for travelers. From there, you can easily access popular tourist attractions such as the Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, and the beach. The bus provides a cost-effective and efficient mode of transportation for those looking to explore Santa Monica from San Diego.
To get to Santa Monica from San Diego Airport, you can take the line 992 bus. The bus ride takes approximately 12 minutes and the fare ranges from $1 to $5. The bus departs from the airport and will take you to downtown Santa Monica, where you can easily explore the attractions and beaches in the area. It's a convenient and affordable option for traveling from the airport to Santa Monica.
Delta and United Airlines are the airlines that offer flights between San Diego and Santa Monica. The flights operate from San Diego Airport to Los Angeles Airport. Passengers can check the flight schedules and book their tickets directly through the respective airlines' websites or through travel booking platforms. It is recommended to compare prices and check for any additional fees before making a reservation.
The fastest way to get from San Diego to Santa Monica is by taking a direct flight from San Diego Airport to Los Angeles Airport. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 3 minutes. Delta and United Airlines are the airlines that offer this route.
The flight from San Diego to Santa Monica typically takes around 1 hour and 3 minutes. This is for a direct flight from San Diego International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport, as Santa Monica does not have its own airport. However, it is important to note that the actual travel time may vary depending on factors such as flight delays and weather conditions. It is recommended to check with the airline for the most accurate and up-to-date flight schedules and travel times.
Trains from San Diego to Santa Monica arrive at the Los Angeles station. The Los Angeles station serves as a major transportation hub, connecting various train lines throughout the region. From there, travelers can take a short bus or taxi ride to reach Santa Monica, which is located northwest of downtown Los Angeles. The Los Angeles station offers convenient connections for onward travel to Santa Monica and other destinations within the area.
Yes, there is no direct train between San Diego and Santa Monica. However, you can take a train from San Diego to Union Station in Los Angeles and then transfer to the Metro B & D Lines to 7th Street / Metro Center Station. From there, you can take the Metro A & E Lines to reach Downtown Santa Monica Station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 4 hours.
To catch the train from San Diego to Santa Monica you can go to the San Diego station. The train services are operated by Amtrak. Make sure to check the schedule and platform information before you go, as departure times may vary. It is recommended to arrive at the station a little earlier to ensure a smooth boarding process.
The cost of a train from San Diego to Santa Monica can range from $9 to $88, depending on the type of ticket and the time of travel. Prices may vary based on factors such as the class of seating and whether the ticket is purchased in advance or on the day of travel. It is recommended to check with the train operator or online booking platforms for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information for your specific travel dates.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Diego to Santa Monica can range from $16 to $58, depending on the bus company, type of service and time of travel. Prices may also vary based on factors such as availability and demand. It's recommended to check with different bus operators to find the most affordable option for your specific travel dates and preferences.
The cost of driving from San Diego to Santa Monica ranges from $24 to $35. This estimate takes into account factors like fuel prices and tolls, so the final cost may vary. Additionally, it's important to note that this estimate does not include any additional expenses such as parking fees. It's always a good idea to plan and budget accordingly before embarking on a road trip.

Trips from San Diego

Trips to Santa Monica