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Santa Monica, CA, USA to Big Bear Lake, CA, USA from $12: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Santa Monica, United States of America
to
Big Bear Lake, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake: 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.

$12 by busBest price
183 kmDistance
2h 5m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake 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
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  39m
Estimated price
$18-48
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  16m
Estimated price
$12-52
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 183 km
Duration: 2h 5m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  5m
Estimated price
$20-30
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$176-514
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Traveling From Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake

The journey from the bustling beaches of Santa Monica to the serene mountain landscapes of Big Bear Lake offers a striking contrast between coastal vibrancy and peaceful outdoor retreats.

Best Neighbourhoods in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake boasts diverse neighborhoods each offering unique experiences for visitors.

Moonridge
• Close to ski resorts and adventure park.
• Scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
The Village
• Vibrant shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Ideal for a lively and social atmosphere.
Boulder Bay
• Picturesque lakefront scenery and activities.
• Great for kayaking and picnicking by the water.

Best Times To Visit Big Bear Lake's Attractions

Knowing the ideal times to visit Big Bear Lake's attractions can enhance your experience.

Bear Mountain Resort
Visit during weekday mornings for fewer crowds and shorter lift lines.
Big Bear Lake
Early fall offers stunning fall foliage and a quieter atmosphere.
Snow Summit
Mid-week visits during winter capture the slopes without the weekend rush.

Big Bear Lake Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Big Bear Lake enjoys a diverse climate, with warm summers perfect for outdoor activities and snowy winters ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Understanding the seasonal weather patterns helps you plan your visit for optimal experiences, whether you prefer summer hikes or winter sports.

Dining Recommendation in Big Bear Lake

Try the cozy atmosphere at The Grizzly Manor Cafe, where the hearty portions of their famous pancakes provide a comforting contrast to the lighter fare often found in Santa Monica. With a focus on local ingredients and a relaxed mountain vibe, the dining experience here embraces rustic flavor profiles that highlight the region's charm.

Santa Monica - Big Bear Lake operators

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

Train
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from L. A. Union Station to San Bernardino Depot

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$182-183
Bus
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

Bus from 5th / Santa Monica to Patsaouras Transit Plaza

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$481-482
Contact phone
+1 909-878-5200
Website
https://mountaintransit.org

Bus from Metrolink Station to Big Bear Blvd & Alden Rd - Sandy's Sports Bar/Verizon Store

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$188-189

Bus from Rialto & F St - Transit Center to Big Bear Blvd & Alden Rd - Sandy's Sports Bar/Verizon Store

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$188-480
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://flixbus.com

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Bernardino Downtown Transit Center

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$483-484
Contact phone
+1 310-451-5444
Website
https://www.bigbluebus.com

Bus from 4Th Sb & Santa Monica Place to Aviation/Lax

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$481-482
Plane
Website
united.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Indio/Palm Springs (PSP)

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$180-181

Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Monica and Big Bear Lake 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 scenic road trip from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake, covering a driving distance of 114 miles. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes, offering a delightful mix of coastal and mountainous views along the way. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $20 to $30 for the trip from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake by car. This affordable transportation choice allows you to experience the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that await you in the charming mountain town of Big Bear Lake.
Average price
$20 - $30
🛫 Begin your journey from Santa Monica by catching a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to Indio/Palm Springs Airport, which only takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes with United Airlines. 🚗 Once you land in Indio/Palm Springs, you can rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive up to Big Bear Lake. The drive takes approximately 2 hours, offering picturesque views along the way.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
Indio/Palm Springs Airport
🚌 Starting from 5th / Santa Monica, travelers heading to Big Bear Lake will have to make transfers at Los Angeles Union Station and Rialto & F St - Transit Center on their way. The journey, with all the transfers, is approximately 6 hours and 16 minutes in total. 💸 The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Monica and Big Bear Lake can range from $12 to $52, offering travelers an affordable option to explore the beautiful destination without the need for a personal vehicle. With a bit of planning, a bus journey can be a cost-effective and enjoyable way to reach Big Bear Lake from Santa Monica.
Departure Point
5th / Santa Monica station
Arrival Point
Big Bear Blvd & Alden Rd - Sandy's Sports Bar/Verizon Store station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake.

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The distance between Santa Monica and Big Bear Lake is 92 miles or 113.6 miles by road. If you choose to travel by train and then bus, it can take approximately 5 hours and 39 minutes to reach Big Bear Lake from Santa Monica. However, if you prefer to drive, it takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes to reach Santa Monica from Big Bear Lake. Alternatively, taking a bus directly from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake can take approximately 6 hours and 15 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient option for traveling from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake is to drive. It takes approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes to complete the journey by car. The cost of fuel for the trip is estimated to be between $20 and $30. This option allows you to have flexibility in your schedule and the convenience of traveling directly to your destination.
The prices for a bus ticket from Big Bear Lake to Santa Monica range from $12 to $52, depending on the company and the type of ticket purchased. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best price. Additionally, there may be discounts available for students, seniors, or military personnel. It is advisable to check with the bus company for any current promotions or deals.
To travel from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 114 miles. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes by car. The cost for fuel and tolls varies but ranges from $20 to $30.
To travel from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake without a car, the best option is to take a train and bus combination. This journey usually takes around 5 hours and 39 minutes and costs between $17 and $50. The train ride will take you to San Bernardino, and from there, you can catch a bus to Big Bear Lake. It is a convenient and affordable way to reach your destination without the need for a car.
There is no direct link between Santa Monica and Big Bear Lake. However, it is possible to reach Big Bear Lake from Santa Monica by taking a combination of train and bus. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 39 minutes. Alternatively, if driving, it takes about 2 hours and 5 minutes to travel from Santa Monica to Big Bear Lake. Another option is taking a bus, which takes around 6 hours and 15 minutes.
The flight from Los Angeles Airport to Indio/Palm Springs Airport is the quickest option, taking about 1 hour. However, it should be noted that Big Bear Lake does not have its own airport, so travelers would need to drive or find alternate transportation from Indio/Palm Springs Airport to reach Big Bear Lake. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but generally, the prices for this domestic flight route range from $100 to $300 round trip.
There are numerous accommodation options near Big Bear Lake. The area offers a wide range of hotels, cabins, and vacation rentals to suit different preferences and budgets. With over 1554 hotels available, visitors can find options starting at $74 per night. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin or a luxurious resort, there are plenty of choices available for a comfortable stay near Big Bear Lake.

Trips from Santa Monica

Trips to Palm Springs