San Francisco, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $26: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from San Francisco to Santa Monica: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$26 by trainBest price

550 kmDistance

3h 57m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Francisco 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.

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Traveling From San Francisco to Santa Monica

Journeying from San Francisco to Santa Monica offers a striking contrast between the iconic, hilly streets of the Bay Area and the sun-soaked beaches and vibrant boardwalk of Southern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Santa Monica is known for its diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own charm.

Downtown Santa Monica

• Vibrant shopping scene with Santa Monica Place.

• Bustling nightlife with bars and restaurants.

Ocean Park

• Close proximity to the beach and iconic boardwalk.

• Quaint cafes and shops create a laid-back atmosphere.

Montana Avenue

• Charming boutiques and local eateries line the street.

• Tree-lined avenues provide a peaceful, upscale vibe.

Best Times To Visit Santa Monica's Attractions

Planning your visit to Santa Monica's attractions can maximize your experience.

Santa Monica Pier

Visit early morning or late afternoon for beautiful views and fewer crowds.

Third Street Promenade

Weekday afternoons are ideal for a leisurely stroll without the weekend rush.

Palisades Park

Early mornings offer serene moments, perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic.

Santa Monica Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Monica enjoys a mild, Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cool, rainy winters, making it inviting throughout the year. For the best experience, consider visiting during the spring or fall when the temperatures are pleasant and the crowds are smaller.

Dining Recommendation

Try the vibrant fish tacos at The Albright, where the fresh local catch pairs with zesty ingredients for a casual beachside experience that contrasts with San Francisco's upscale seafood dining. The laid-back atmosphere and bold flavors showcase Southern California's culinary focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, offering a distinct taste of the region.

San Francisco - Santa Monica operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Francisco 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 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Average Duration

7h 15m

Estimated price

$649-2410

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Oakland to Los Angeles

Average Duration

12h 2m

Estimated price

$2415-2416

Train from San Francisco to Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration

8h 35m

Estimated price

$0-0

Plane Show flights

Website

southwest.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 22m

Estimated price

$2411-2417

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 24m

Estimated price

$2418-2419

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Burbank (BUR)

Average Duration

1h 12m

Estimated price

$648-260

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Burbank (BUR)

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$261-262

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Long Beach (LGB)

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

$263-264

Website

united.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 35m

Estimated price

$265-260

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Burbank (BUR)

Average Duration

1h 26m

Estimated price

$266-267

Website

delta.com

Plane from San Francisco (SFO) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 32m

Estimated price

$2418-269

Plane from Oakland (OAK) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 27m

Estimated price

$2410-1772

all-pages.other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Other from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Coliseum

Average Duration

25m

Estimated price

$1779-560

Other from Civic Center / UN Plaza to Milpitas

Average Duration

1h 6m

Estimated price

$561-562

Contact phone

+1-323-466-3876

Website

metro.net

Other from North Hollywood Station to 7th Street / Metro Center Station

Average Duration

26m

Estimated price

$563-563

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

Average Duration

46m

Estimated price

$563-563

Other from Del Amo Station to Pico Station

Average Duration

39m

Estimated price

$563-563

Other from Pico Station to Downtown Santa Monica Station

Average Duration

44m

Estimated price

$565-565

Contact phone

+1 800-660-4287

Website

caltrain.com

Other from San Francisco Caltrain to San Jose Diridon

Average Duration

1h 41m

Estimated price

$566-5642

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

Traveling between San Francisco 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 journey from San Francisco to Santa Monica, covering a total driving distance of 383 miles in approximately 6 hours and 19 minutes. 💰 Prices for this road trip adventure range from $65 to $100, offering flexibility for travelers to choose the best option that suits their budget and preferences.

Average price

$65 - $100

🚆 The total travel time from San Francisco to Santa Monica by train, including transfers, is approximately 14 hours and 33 minutes. Passengers can enjoy the varied landscapes of California as they make their way from the Bay Area to the Southern California coast. 🚆 Fares for the train trip between San Francisco and Santa Monica range from $26 to $177, offering travelers an affordable and convenient option to explore the state by rail. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride through the Golden State on this unforgettable train journey.

Departure Point

Oakland station

Arrival Point

Los Angeles station

🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from San Francisco to Santa Monica with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 20 minutes. Several reputable airlines including Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and American Airlines provide options for this route.

Departure Point

San Francisco Airport

Arrival Point

Los Angeles Airport

🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from San Francisco to Santa Monica, travelers can take a bus operated by Flixbus USA departing from San Francisco and arriving in Los Angeles. The journey, with transfers, typically lasts around 8 hours and 16 minutes. 💸 The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Monica and San Francisco can vary, ranging from $33 to $105. Travelers can enjoy a scenic and cost-effective option for exploring the California coast by choosing to travel by bus.

Departure Point

San Francisco station

Arrival Point

Los Angeles station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between San Francisco and Santa Monica is approximately 342 miles. By train, it takes about 14 hours and 35 minutes to reach Santa Monica from San Francisco. If you choose to fly from San Francisco to Los Angeles and then take a line 3 bus, the travel time is around 4 hours and 2 minutes. By car, it typically takes around 6 hours and 19 minutes to drive from San Francisco to Santa Monica, while the bus journey takes about 8 hours and 15 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from San Francisco to Santa Monica is by bus, which costs $30-$110. This mode of transportation takes 8 hours and 15 minutes. If time is of the essence, the quickest option is to fly from San Francisco to Los Angeles and then take a line 3 bus to Santa Monica. This option takes 4 hours and 2 minutes, but it can be slightly more expensive, with tickets costing $60-$260.

The prices for traveling by train between San Francisco and Santa Monica can range from $26 to $177, depending on factors such as the class of the ticket and the time of travel. On the other hand, the prices for traveling by bus between Santa Monica and San Francisco can vary from $33 to $105, with prices differing based on the bus company and the type of ticket purchased. It is recommended to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.

To travel from San Francisco to Santa Monica without using public transportation, you can drive the 383-mile distance which takes approximately 6 hours and 19 minutes. Along this picturesque route, you can enjoy the scenic views and explore the charming towns in between. The cost of driving will vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, which can range from $65 to $100.

The quickest and most convenient way to travel from San Francisco to Santa Monica without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey typically takes around 8 hours and 15 minutes and costs between $30 and $110. Alternative modes of transportation, such as trains or flights, may take longer or be more expensive. Therefore, taking a bus would be the recommended option for this journey.

There is no direct train or bus link between San Francisco and Santa Monica. However, you can reach Santa Monica from San Francisco by taking a train and then transferring to a bus, which takes approximately 14 hours and 35 minutes. Alternatively, you can fly from San Francisco to Los Angeles and then take a bus to Santa Monica, which takes approximately 4 hours and 2 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the distance is approximately 383 miles and it takes about 6 hours and 19 minutes by car.

The flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost of the flight varies depending on several factors, such as the time of year, airline, and booking class. On average, a one-way ticket can range from $100 to $300. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel dates.

There are plenty of accomodation options available in Santa Monica, with over 1410 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $87 per night, giving travelers a range of choices to fit their budget. Visitors can find a variety of hotels, including luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and budget-friendly options, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

San Francisco, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $26: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from San Francisco to Santa Monica: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From San Francisco to Santa Monica

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Best Times To Visit Santa Monica's Attractions

Santa Monica Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation

San Francisco - Santa Monica operators

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

Frequently asked questions

Trips from San Francisco

Trips to Santa Monica

Popular routes