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Santa Monica, CA, USA to Anaheim, CA, USA from $4: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Santa Monica to Anaheim: 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.

$4 by busBest price
65 kmDistance
44m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to Anaheim 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
Tram
Train
Average Duration
2h  28m
Estimated price
$11-20
Recommended
Company
various
Tram
Bus
Average Duration
2h  55m
Estimated price
$4-4
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 65 km
Duration: 44m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$4-4
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  8m
Estimated price
$4-4
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$7-11
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$160-200
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Traveling From Santa Monica to Anaheim

The journey from Santa Monica to Anaheim offers a striking contrast between the laid-back beach vibes of the coast and the vibrant theme park excitement found inland.

Best Neighbourhoods in Anaheim

Anaheim's neighborhoods showcase a blend of entertainment, dining, and culture.

Disneyland Resort Area
• Home to Disneyland and California Adventure parks.
• Offers diverse dining and shopping options nearby.
Anaheim Packing District
• Features a vibrant food hall with local cuisine.
• Hosts live music and community events regularly.
Downtown Anaheim
• A hub for nightlife and entertainment venues.
• Close to Angel Stadium and the Honda Center.

Best Times To Visit Anaheim's Attractions

Planning your visit to Anaheim's attractions can lead to a more enjoyable experience.

Disneyland Resort
Visiting on weekdays during off-peak seasons helps avoid long lines.
Knott's Berry Farm
Early mornings and late afternoons are less crowded, allowing more rides.
Angel Stadium
Attend weekday games for a more relaxed atmosphere and easier parking.

Anaheim Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Anaheim enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. Visiting in the spring or fall often brings pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, enhancing your travel experience at local attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Anaheim

Try the famous street tacos at Taqueria Los Anayas, where bold flavors and local ingredients create a distinctive culinary experience that contrasts with Santa Monica's upscale coastal dining. This casual eatery offers an authentic taste of Southern California’s diverse food scene, immersing you in a lively atmosphere that’s all about flavor and community.

Santa Monica - Anaheim operators

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

Tram
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

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

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$2-2

Tram from Downtown Santa Monica Station to Pico Station

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$2-2
Train Show train routes
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from L. A. Union Station to Fullerton Station

Average Duration
36m
Estimated price
$7-16
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from Flower / Pico to Disneyland Employee's Entrance

Average Duration
1h 51m
Estimated price
$2-2

Bus from Wilshire / Lincoln to 6th / Broadway

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$2-2

Bus from 5th / Hill to Disneyland Employee's Entrance

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$2-2

Bus from Santa Monica / Lincoln to Hill / 5th

Average Duration
1h 48m
Estimated price
$2-2
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 877.733.3305
Website
https://layellowcab.com

Taxi from Santa Monica to Anaheim

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
$160-200

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

Traveling between Santa Monica and Anaheim 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 Santa Monica to Anaheim, spanning 40 miles of stunning Southern California scenery. The drive is a quick 44-minute jaunt filled with palm-lined highways and endless sunshine. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of car travel with prices ranging from $7 to $11, giving you the freedom to explore Anaheim at your own pace. Pack some snacks, cue up your favorite road trip playlist, and hit the open road for a hassle-free adventure.
Average price
$7 - $11
🚉 The trip from Santa Monica to Anaheim by train requires a transfer at L. A. Union Station. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes. 🚉 The total distance between Santa Monica and Anaheim is 45.2 miles. The first step involves taking a bus towards Downtown LA - Broadway - Venice, followed by a second bus towards San Diego. The entire route takes 2 hours and 39 minutes.
Departure Point
Downtown Santa Monica Station
Arrival Point
Fullerton station
🚌 The journey from Santa Monica to Anaheim by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes, with a transfer required along the way. There is no direct bus service available between the two locations. 🚏 Route 1 from Santa Monica to Anaheim covers a distance of 45.2 miles and involves a transfer in Downtown LA. The total travel time for this route is about 2 hours and 39 minutes. Passengers will first board a Metro Local Line bus towards Downtown LA - Broadway - Venice from Santa Monica EB & Lincoln NS. 🎫 The bus fare for the trip between Santa Monica and Anaheim is $4. Travelers can avail of the convenient bus services operated by Metro Los Angeles and Amtrak Chartered Motorcoach to reach Disneyland Employee's Entrance in Anaheim.
Departure Point
Wilshire / Lincoln station
Arrival Point
Disneyland Employee's Entrance station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The cheapest way to get from Santa Monica to Anaheim is by taking a combination of the tram and bus. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes and costs $4. You can board the tram at Santa Monica Pier and ride it to 7th Street / Metro Center Station. From there, transfer to the bus and take Line 460 to Anaheim Regional Transportation Intermodal Center. This option is cost-effective and convenient for budget-conscious travelers.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Monica to Anaheim is by taking a taxi. The taxi ride takes approximately 44 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, and costs between $160 and $200. This option provides the convenience of door-to-door transportation without having to worry about transfers or schedules. However, it is important to consider the cost and traffic conditions before choosing this option.
The distance from Santa Monica to Anaheim is approximately 36 miles. If you are driving, the road distance would be about 40.2 miles. It usually takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to travel between the two cities by car, depending on traffic conditions. However, keep in mind that travel times may vary.
The best way to travel from Santa Monica to Anaheim without a car is to take a tram and train. Start by taking the Expo Line Light Rail from Downtown Santa Monica Station to 7th Street / Metro Center Station in Los Angeles. Then transfer to the Metro E Line and take it to the 7th Street / Metro Center Station again. From there, take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner train to Anaheim Station. The entire journey takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes and the cost ranges from $10 to $20 depending on the fare type.
The journey from Santa Monica to Anaheim takes approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes, including transfers. The specific duration may vary depending on traffic and the mode of transportation chosen. It is recommended to plan for some extra time to account for any unforeseen delays or disruptions.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Anaheim. You can choose from over 710 hotels in the area. Prices for hotels in Anaheim start at $69 per night. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly options or luxurious resorts, there is something to suit every traveler's preference and budget in Anaheim.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Monica to Anaheim. The driving distance between the two cities is about 40 miles, and it takes approximately 44 minutes to complete the journey by car. This option provides flexibility and convenience, allowing you to plan your own schedule and make any necessary stops along the way. However, keep in mind that traffic conditions and peak travel times may affect the duration of the trip.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Santa Monica and Anaheim. However, you can take a bus from Wilshire/Lincoln in Santa Monica to 5th/Hill in Los Angeles, and then transfer to another bus that goes to Disneyland Employee's Entrance in Anaheim. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 26 minutes. Please note that bus schedules and routes may vary, so it's always a good idea to check for the most up-to-date information before your trip.
To catch the bus from Santa Monica to Anaheim, you will need to go to the Wilshire / Lincoln station. This is where the bus services operated by Metro Los Angeles depart from. Make sure to check the bus schedule in advance and arrive at the station a few minutes early to ensure a smooth departure.
The Santa Monica to Anaheim bus arrives at the Disneyland Employee's Entrance station. This is a convenient drop-off location for travelers visiting the Disneyland Resort. From there, you can easily access the theme parks, hotels, and other attractions in Anaheim. The bus services provided by Metro Los Angeles offer a convenient and affordable option for traveling between Santa Monica and Anaheim.
Trains from Santa Monica to Anaheim arrive at Fullerton station, which is located in Orange County. Fullerton station is a major transportation hub in the area and serves as a transfer point for other train and bus routes. From Fullerton station, travelers can easily access Anaheim and other nearby cities in Orange County. It is recommended to check the train schedules in advance as they may vary depending on the day and time of travel.
No, there is no direct train between Santa Monica and Anaheim. However, you can take a combination of trams and buses to reach Anaheim. The most cost-effective option would be to take the tram from Downtown Santa Monica Station to 7th Street / Metro Center Station, then transfer to the L.A. Union Station and take a train to Fullerton station. From there, you can catch a bus to reach Anaheim. The total journey time, including transfers, is approximately 2 hours and 28 minutes.
To catch the train from Santa Monica to Anaheim you will need to go to the Downtown Santa Monica Station. This is where the train services, operated by Metro Los Angeles, depart from. The station is located at 402 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica 90401. Be sure to check the train schedule beforehand to plan your trip accordingly.
The cost of a bus ticket from Santa Monica to Anaheim is $4. This affordable option allows travelers to save money while enjoying the convenience of public transportation. Buses provide a comfortable and efficient way to travel between the two cities, with various departure times throughout the day. By opting for the bus, travelers can have a cost-effective journey without compromising on the quality of their transportation experience.
The cost to drive from Santa Monica to Anaheim can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls. On average, the total cost of driving this distance ranges from $7 to $11. This estimate includes the cost of fuel and any potential toll fees along the route. However, it is important to note that these prices are subject to change and may be higher or lower depending on the current market conditions.

Trips from Santa Monica

Trips to Anaheim