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Santa Monica, CA, USA to Palm Springs, CA, USA from $22: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santa Monica, United States of America
to
Palm Springs, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Monica to Palm Springs: 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.

$22 - OtherBest price
196 kmDistance
2h 3m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to Palm Springs 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
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
4h  54m
Estimated price
$14-57
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  3m
Estimated price
$22-35
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 196 km
Duration: 2h 3m

See more options

Company
Metro E Line, Amtrak Thruway Connecting Service
Tram
Bus
Average Duration
5h  28m
Estimated price
$144-144
Company
Line 3 Bus, United Airlines
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  2m
Estimated price
$162-492

Traveling From Santa Monica to Palm Springs

Traveling from Santa Monica to Palm Springs offers a compelling shift from the vibrant coastal life and sandy beaches to the serene desert landscape and upscale resorts.

Best Neighbourhoods in Palm Springs

Palm Springs features neighborhoods that blend charm, style, and relaxation.

Uptown Design District
• Known for trendy boutiques and art galleries.
• Renowned for mid-century modern architecture.
Palm Springs VillageFest
• Features a bustling street fair every Thursday evening.
• Offers local crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment.
South Palm Springs
• Home to luxurious resorts and spas.
• Offers scenic hiking trails and beautiful landscapes.

Best Times To Visit Palm Springs's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience in Palm Springs.

Joshua Tree National Park
Visit during weekdays in spring or fall for fewer crowds and mild weather.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to enjoy panoramic views without long waits.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
Go in the early morning or late afternoon to catch animal activity and cooler temperatures.

Palm Springs Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Palm Springs boasts a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters, making it an attractive year-round destination. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures, enhancing your outdoor adventures and overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Palm Springs

At the acclaimed Workshop Kitchen + Bar, the farm-to-table approach features dishes like the roasted beet salad with house-made ricotta, showcasing the desert’s fresh produce. This dining experience contrasts with Santa Monica's beachside fare, offering a more intimate atmosphere and a focus on local ingredients that highlight the region's unique flavors.

Santa Monica - Palm Springs operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Los Angeles to Palm Springs Downtown

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$140-141
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Bus from Fullerton Amtrak Station to Palm Springs Amtrak Bus Stop

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 310-451-5444
Website
bigbluebus.com

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

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$144-145
Tram
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
metro.net

Tram from Downtown Santa Monica Station to 7th Street / Metro Center Station - Metro A & E Lines

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$144-145
Plane
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$142-143

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

Traveling between Santa Monica and Palm Springs 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 vibrant Santa Monica to the sunny oasis of Palm Springs, covering a distance of 121 miles in just over 2 hours. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of cost-effective travel options ranging from $22 to $35 by car, making this journey budget-friendly and convenient for all travelers.
Average price
$22 - $35
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Santa Monica to Palm Springs by taking a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to Indio/Palm Springs Airport, with United Airlines offering this route in just 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
Indio/Palm Springs Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Santa Monica to Palm Springs that takes approximately 4 hours and 54 minutes, offering a budget-friendly ticket price ranging from $14 to $57. 🌴 Choose from various routes to Palm Springs, with options like a 5-hour 35-minute journey covering 129 miles and 3 transfers, or longer routes with scenic stops along the way, all managed by different bus agencies and totaling different durations.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Monica to Palm Springs.

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The cheapest way to get from Santa Monica to Palm Springs is by driving. It typically costs between $22 and $35 for gas and tolls, and the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes. This option allows you to have more flexibility in your travel schedule and explore the beautiful scenery along the way. However, it is important to factor in the cost of parking if you plan to stay overnight in Palm Springs.
The fastest way to travel from Santa Monica to Palm Springs is by driving. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 3 minutes, depending on traffic conditions and the route you choose. Driving allows you the flexibility to stop and explore different locations along the way, making it a convenient option for reaching your destination quickly. However, it is always recommended to check for updated road conditions and plan your trip accordingly.
The distance from Santa Monica to Palm Springs is approximately 113 miles. If you prefer to drive, the road distance is 121.5 miles. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 3 minutes. It's important to note that travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the route taken.
To travel from Santa Monica to Palm Springs without a car, you can take the Metro Expo Line from Santa Monica to Los Angeles Union Station. From there, you can transfer to a Metrolink train bound for Riverside - Downtown. Once you arrive in Riverside, you can take the SunLine Transit bus line 111 to Palm Springs. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and 28 minutes.
The journey from Santa Monica to Palm Springs takes approximately 5 hours and 28 minutes, which includes transfers. The recommended route is to drive, which is the fastest option. However, traffic conditions may affect the travel time, especially during peak hours. It is advisable to plan your departure accordingly to account for potential delays.
There are numerous accommodation options available in Palm Springs. With over 1,412 hotels to choose from, you will certainly find something that suits your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Palm Springs start at $49 and go up from there. Whether you are looking for a luxurious resort, a cozy bed and breakfast, or a budget-friendly motel, Palm Springs offers a range of options to cater to every traveler's needs. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season, to secure the best deals and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Santa Monica to Palm Springs. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 121 miles. It usually takes about 2 hours and 3 minutes to drive from Santa Monica to Palm Springs, depending on traffic and the route you take. The most common route is to take Interstate 10 East.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Santa Monica and Palm Springs. However, there are services that depart from 5th/Santa Monica and arrive at Palm Springs Downtown via Los Angeles Downtown. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 6 hours and 14 minutes. It is advisable to check the schedule and plan your travel accordingly to ensure a smooth journey.
To catch the bus from Santa Monica to Palm Springs you will need to go to the 5th / Santa Monica station. This is where the bus services, operated by Metro Los Angeles, depart from. Make sure to check the bus schedule and arrive at the station early to ensure you don't miss your bus.
The Santa Monica to Palm Springs bus service, operated by Flixbus USA, arrives at the Palm Springs Downtown station. This station is conveniently located in the heart of Palm Springs, making it easy for travelers to access their final destination. The bus provides a convenient and affordable option for those looking to travel between Santa Monica and Palm Springs.
United Airlines is the primary airline that offers flights between Santa Monica and Palm Springs. The airline operates flights from Los Angeles Airport to Indio/Palm Springs Airport. It is recommended to check the United Airlines website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date flight schedules and availability. Other airlines may also offer connecting flights between the two cities, so it is advisable to compare options and prices before making a booking.
The fastest way to get from Santa Monica to Palm Springs is by taking a direct flight. The flight from Los Angeles Airport to Indio/Palm Springs Airport takes around 1 hour. United Airlines offers flights between these two destinations. It is recommended to check the flight schedule and book in advance to secure the best fares and availability.
The flight from Santa Monica to Palm Springs typically takes 1 hour. The quickest way to travel is by taking a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to the Indio/Palm Springs Airport. There may be other connecting flights available as well, but the direct flight is the fastest option.
The cost of a bus ticket from Santa Monica to Palm Springs ranges from $13 to $52. Prices may vary depending on the bus company, time of travel, and whether you purchase your ticket in advance or at the bus station. It's recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal.
The cost of driving from Santa Monica to Palm Springs typically ranges from $22 to $35. This estimate takes into account factors such as fuel prices, tolls, and vehicle efficiency. The actual cost may vary depending on specific factors such as the type of vehicle and current gas prices. Additionally, it is worth considering any additional expenses such as parking fees or car rental costs, if applicable.

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