San Jose, CA, USA to Santa Monica, CA, USA from $22: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$22 by trainBest price

483 kmDistance

3h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Jose 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 Jose to Santa Monica

Traveling from San Jose to Santa Monica offers a transition from the tech-savvy innovation of Silicon Valley to the laid-back beach vibe and lively boardwalk culture of Southern California.

Best Neighbourhoods in Santa Monica

Santa Monica boasts vibrant neighborhoods that cater to diverse interests.

Third Street Promenade

• Bustling shopping and dining hub

• Street performers add lively atmosphere

Ocean Park

• Proximity to gorgeous beaches

• Quaint cafés and boutiques abound

North of Montana

• Upscale homes and serene streets

• Scenic views near the ocean

Best Times To Visit Santa Monica's Attractions

Visit Santa Monica's attractions at the right times for a memorable experience.

Santa Monica Pier

Early morning or weekdays help you avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Third Street Promenade

Visit in the late afternoon for a lively atmosphere with street performances.

Palisades Park

Early mornings and weekdays provide tranquility and stunning ocean 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 pleasant for outdoor activities year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and fall when temperatures are comfortable and the crowds are smaller, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Monica

Try the fish tacos at Taco Roco, where the fresh catch and vibrant toppings create a burst of coastal flavors that contrast sharply with San Jose's diverse culinary scene. The relaxed beachy atmosphere and commitment to local ingredients elevate this dining experience, giving you a taste of Santa Monica's unique coastal culture.

San Jose - Santa Monica operators

Explore transport companies operating between San Jose 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 Jose Downtown to Los Angeles

Average Duration

Estimated price

$2842-2843

Bus from San Jose to Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration

8h 35m

Estimated price

$0-0

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from San Jose to Los Angeles

Average Duration

10h 45m

Estimated price

$2844-2841

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Train from Berryessa / North San Jose to Coliseum

Average Duration

43m

Estimated price

$1592-1593

Contact phone

+1-323-466-3876

Website

metro.net

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

Average Duration

26m

Estimated price

$229-229

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

Average Duration

46m

Estimated price

$229-229

Plane Show flights

Website

southwest.com

Plane from San Jose (SJC) to Los Angeles (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 19m

Estimated price

$2845-28400

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

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$2846-2847

Website

aa.com

Plane from San Jose Airport (SJC) to Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 30m

Estimated price

$2843-221

Website

delta.com

Plane from San Jose Airport (SJC) to Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Average Duration

1h 26m

Estimated price

$678-222

all-pages.other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1-310-451-5444

Website

bigbluebus.com

Other from Aviation/Lax to 4Th Nb & Colorado Fs

Average Duration

56m

Estimated price

$1590-229

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

Traveling between San Jose 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 road trip from San Jose to Santa Monica, covering a distance of 342 miles. Enjoy the scenic drive along the California coast, taking approximately 5 hours and 41 minutes to reach your destination. 💸 Depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls, the cost of driving from San Jose to Santa Monica can range from $60 to $90. Plan your budget accordingly and make stops at charming towns along the way for a memorable journey.

Average price

$60 - $90

🚆 Traveling by train from San Jose to Santa Monica involves a journey with transfers. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 11 hours and 47 minutes. 🚉 The route includes transfers at Union Station in Los Angeles and 7th Street / Metro Center Station. The train services are operated by Amtrak, with the final destination being Los Angeles station. 💸 Ticket prices for the train between San Jose and Santa Monica can range from $22 to $159, offering travelers a convenient and scenic way to make the trip between these two California cities.

Departure Point

San Jose station

Arrival Point

Los Angeles station

🛫 Hop on a quick and convenient direct flight from San Jose Airport to Los Angeles Airport with top airlines like American, Alaska, Delta, or Southwest. In just 1 hour and 15 minutes, you'll be on your way to the sunny shores of Santa Monica. 🚗 Upon landing in Los Angeles, you can easily catch a ride to Santa Monica via various transportation options such as rental cars, shuttles, or rideshare services. The drive typically takes around 30-45 minutes, offering scenic views along the way.

Departure Point

San Jose Airport

Arrival Point

Los Angeles Airport

🚌 While there is no direct bus from San Jose to Santa Monica, travelers can take a bus service operated by Flixbus USA with transfers, making the journey approximately 7 hours and 1 minute. 🌴 The bus route from San Jose to Santa Monica covers a distance of around 360 miles and offers various transfer options, with prices ranging from $30 to $96 for the trip.

Departure Point

San Jose Downtown station

Arrival Point

Los Angeles station

Frequently asked questions

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The distance between San Jose and Santa Monica is approximately 300 miles. The road distance is slightly longer at 342.3 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes about 11 hours and 49 minutes by train, 3 hours and 39 minutes by flying to Los Angeles and then taking a bus, 5 hours and 41 minutes by car, and 7 hours by bus to travel between the two cities.

The most cost-effective way to travel from San Jose to Santa Monica is by bus, which takes 7 hours and costs $29-$100. This option allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey. However, if you are looking for a quicker option, you can fly from San Jose to Los Angeles and then take a bus, which takes 3 hours and 39 minutes but costs $65-$270. It is advisable to choose the mode of transportation based on your budget and time constraints.

The prices for traveling from San Jose to Santa Monica by train range from $22 to $159. On the other hand, the prices for a bus trip from Santa Monica to San Jose range from $30 to $96. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the class of service, time of travel, and any additional amenities offered. It is advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.

To get from San Jose to Santa Monica without using public transportation, you can drive. The road distance is approximately 342 miles, and it takes about 5 hours and 41 minutes to drive between the two cities. The cost for the trip by car can range from $60 to $90, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls.

The best way to travel from San Jose to Santa Monica without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and the ticket prices range from $29 to $100. This is a convenient and cost-effective option for travelers who do not have access to a car. Additionally, taking the bus allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic route to your destination.

There is no direct train or bus link between San Jose and Santa Monica. The most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by car, which takes around 5 hours and 41 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a flight from San Jose to Los Angeles, followed by a bus ride, which typically takes around 3 hours and 39 minutes. However, if you prefer public transportation, you can take a train from San Jose to Los Angeles and then transfer to a bus to reach Santa Monica, which takes approximately 11 hours and 49 minutes.

The flight from San Jose to Santa Monica is a quick and convenient option, taking just 1 hour and 15 minutes. However, it's worth noting that there are no direct flights between these two cities. The closest airport to Santa Monica is Los Angeles Airport, so travelers would need to take a connecting flight from San Jose. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but typically ranges from $150 to $300.

There are numerous options for accommodation near Santa Monica. With over 1410 hotels available, travelers can find a variety of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $87 per night, providing a range of affordable options for visitors. Whether you're looking for luxury resorts or budget-friendly accommodations, Santa Monica has something to offer for every traveler.