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Santa Monica, CA, USA to Oceanside, CA, USA from $5: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Monica to Oceanside: 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.

$5 by busBest price
156 kmDistance
1h 38m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to Oceanside 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
3h  52m
Estimated price
$7-79
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
4h  27m
Estimated price
$5-77
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 156 km
Duration: 1h 38m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  46m
Estimated price
$11-47
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$16-57
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  38m
Estimated price
$17-26
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  49m
Estimated price
$62-379
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Traveling From Santa Monica to Oceanside

The journey from Santa Monica to Oceanside offers a shift from the vibrant, bustling beaches lined with trendy shops and eateries to the laid-back coastal charm of Oceanside, where surf culture meets a more relaxed vibe.

Best Neighbourhoods in Oceanside

Oceanside features diverse neighborhoods each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Oceanside
• Bustling area with eclectic shops and restaurants.
• Home to the iconic Oceanside Pier.
South Oceanside
• Known for its surf culture and beautiful beaches.
• Quaint, laid-back cafes offer local flavors.
Mission San Luis Rey
• Historic site with stunning architecture and gardens.
• Great for exploring local history and culture.

Best Times To Visit Oceanside's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your experience in Oceanside's popular attractions.

Oceanside Pier
Early mornings offer a peaceful atmosphere and fewer tourists.
California Surf Museum
Visit on weekdays for a quieter, more intimate experience.
Camp Pendleton Beach
Late afternoons provide stunning sunsets and less crowded spaces.

Oceanside Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Oceanside enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for outdoor activities. The warmest months, from June to September, draw larger crowds, while the cooler months often provide a more peaceful experience.

Dining Recommendation in Oceanside

You shouldn't miss out on the fresh fish tacos at The Strand Restaurant, where the vibrant beachside setting perfectly complements the burst of local flavors. This casual dining spot showcases locally sourced ingredients, offering a laid-back experience that contrasts sharply with the trendy, upscale eateries found in Santa Monica.

Santa Monica - Oceanside operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

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

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$76-76

Bus from 5th / Santa Monica to Patsaouras Transit Plaza

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$76-76
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Los Angeles to Oceanside

Average Duration
1h 54m
Estimated price
$75-78

Train from San Diego Old Town Transportation Center to Oceanside

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$77-77
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from L. A. Union Station to Oceanside station

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
$55-774
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

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

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$72-73
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$74-75

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

Traveling between Santa Monica and Oceanside 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 coastal journey from Santa Monica to Oceanside, covering a driving distance of 97 miles in just over 1.5 hours. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of car travel with prices ranging from $17 to $26 for the trip from Santa Monica to Oceanside, offering budget-friendly options for every traveler.
Average price
$17 - $26
🚆 The train journey from Santa Monica to Oceanside involves multiple transfers. You will need to depart from Downtown Santa Monica Station and switch trains at 7th Street / Metro Center Station before reaching Oceanside. 🌴 The total travel time for the trip is approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes, which includes the time for transfers between different train services. It's a convenient and scenic way to travel between these two California coastal cities.
Departure Point
Downtown Santa Monica Station
Arrival Point
Oceanside station
🛬 After a short 52-minute flight, you'll land in San Diego and can easily continue your trip to Oceanside to enjoy all that this scenic seaside destination has to offer.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 Starting at 5th / Santa Monica, take the bus route to Los Angeles Union Station for the trip to Oceanside. The journey includes transfers and will take approximately 4 hours 46 minutes. 🚌 Metro Los Angeles operates the Santa Monica to Oceanside bus services departing from 5th / Santa Monica station. Greyhound Mexico operates the buses that arrive at Oceanside station. The bus ticket prices range from $11 to $47 for this route.
Departure Point
5th / Santa Monica station
Arrival Point
Oceanside station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Monica and Oceanside is approximately 86 miles or 97 miles by road. A typical travel time from Santa Monica to Oceanside is 3 hours and 52 minutes by taking a tram first and then a train. Alternatively, it takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes to travel from Oceanside to Santa Monica by car. Another option is taking a bus, which takes approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes to reach Oceanside from Santa Monica.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Monica to Oceanside is by driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 38 minutes and costs between $17 and $26. This option allows you to have more control over your schedule and eliminates the need to rely on public transportation schedules. Additionally, driving allows you the flexibility to explore other attractions or stop along the way if desired.
The prices for a bus ticket from Santa Monica to Oceanside vary depending on the bus company and the time of travel. On average, bus tickets can range from $11 to $47. It is recommended to check with different bus companies and compare prices to find the best deal. Prices may also vary based on the type of seat or class of service chosen.
To get from Santa Monica to Oceanside without using public transportation, the best option would be to drive. The driving distance is approximately 97 miles and it takes around 1 hour and 38 minutes to reach Oceanside by car. The price for gas on this journey would vary depending on the current prices, but it is estimated to be between $17 and $26.
To travel from Santa Monica to Oceanside without a car, the best option is to take a tram and train. This journey typically takes around 3 hours and 52 minutes and costs between $6 and $80. Public transportation in this route is a convenient and cost-effective way to reach Oceanside from Santa Monica, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
There is no direct train from Santa Monica to Oceanside. However, there are train services that require transfers and take approximately 3 hours and 52 minutes. The journey involves taking the tram and then the train. Alternatively, driving by car is the quickest option, taking around 1 hour and 38 minutes. There is also a bus service available which takes approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes, including transfers.
The flight duration from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport, which is the closest airport to Oceanside, is typically around 59 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and other factors, but fares can generally range from $100 to $300 for a one-way ticket. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Oceanside. With over 563 hotels to choose from, there is something for every budget and preference. Prices for hotels in the area start at $52 per night. Whether you're looking for a luxury resort, a cozy beachfront inn, or a budget-friendly motel, you'll be able to find a suitable place to stay near Oceanside.

Trips from Santa Monica