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Santa Monica, CA, USA to San Diego, CA, USA from $9: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Santa Monica, United States of America
to
San Diego, United States of America

How to Get from Santa Monica to San Diego: 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.

$9 by trainBest price
191.51 kmDistance
2h 16m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to San Diego 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  29m
Estimated price
$15-57
Recommended
Company
Pacific Surfliner
Train
Average Duration
4h  52m
Estimated price
$9-89
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 191.51 km
Duration: 2h 16m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$19-42
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  16m
Estimated price
$24-35
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
3h  17m
Estimated price
$62-316
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santa Monica to San Diego

The journey from Santa Monica to San Diego takes you from a vibrant beach city known for its iconic pier and bustling boardwalk to a laid-back coastal destination renowned for its diverse neighborhoods and beautiful Balboa Park.

Best Neighborhoods in San Diego

San Diego offers a variety of neighborhoods, each with distinct charm.

Gaslamp Quarter
• Historic district filled with vibrant nightlife.
• A hub for dining and entertainment options.
La Jolla
• Stunning coastal views and upscale shopping.
• Home to the famous La Jolla Cove.
Little Italy
• Known for authentic Italian cuisine.
• Hosts a bustling farmer's market every Saturday.

Best Times To Visit San Diego's Attractions

To fully enjoy San Diego's amazing sights, consider visiting during off-peak times.

Balboa Park
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays for a quieter experience.
San Diego Zoo
Arrive at opening for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
USS Midway Museum
Weekday mornings offer a peaceful tour of this historic aircraft carrier.

San Diego Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Diego enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. The pleasant weather greatly enhances outdoor activities and beach time, with the best seasons to visit typically being spring and early fall.

Dining Recommendation

For a truly unique dining experience, try the fish tacos at Las Cuatro Milpas in San Diego, where you’ll savor authentic flavors that contrast sharply with the contemporary California cuisine found in Santa Monica. This casual eatery focuses on traditional recipes and locally sourced ingredients, enveloping you in a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates San Diego's rich Mexican heritage.

Santa Monica - San Diego operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Monica and San Diego, 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 Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$13-55
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
metro.net

Bus from 5th / Santa Monica to Patsaouras Transit Plaza

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$2-2
Contact phone
+52 800 890 6821
Website
greyhound.com.mx

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to San Diego

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$17-40
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Diego

Average Duration
2h 54m
Estimated price
$5-85
Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

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

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$190-320
Website
united.com

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

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$180-380

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

Traveling between Santa Monica and San Diego 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 San Diego, spanning 134 miles of California's stunning Pacific coastline. Feel the ocean breeze as you drive south towards your destination. 💰 Enjoy flexible pricing options ranging from $24 to $35 for the road trip from Santa Monica to San Diego, making it an affordable and convenient travel choice. Explore charming beach towns and vibrant cities along the way. 🏖️ Arrive in San Diego after approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes, ready to experience the city's beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and rich cultural attractions. Your road trip from Santa Monica promises a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Average price
$24 - $35
🌴 The journey includes transfers at 7th Street / Metro Center Station in Los Angeles, taking approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes in total. 💰 Fares for the train ride between Santa Monica and San Diego range from $9 to $89, offering a cost-effective and scenic way to travel between these coastal cities.
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
San Diego station
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Diego Airport, with direct flights taking just 52 minutes. Choose between Delta and United Airlines for a seamless journey between these vibrant Californian cities.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Diego Airport
🚌 There is no direct bus from Santa Monica to San Diego, with a journey time of approximately 5 hours and 51 minutes including transfers. The services depart from 5th / Santa Monica and arrive at San Diego via Los Angeles Union Station. 🛣️ Route 1 involves a 4-hour and 49-minute journey covering a distance of 132 miles. The first step includes a bus towards Downtown LA - Broadway - Venice, lasting about 1 hour and 9 minutes. The second step is a bus towards San Diego, taking approximately 3 hours. 💰 The prices for a bus ticket between Santa Monica and San Diego vary from $15 to $57. This trip allows travelers to experience the scenic route and convenient bus services operated by Metro Los Angeles and Greyhound Mexico.
Departure Point
5th / Santa Monica station
Arrival Point
San Diego station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Monica to San Diego.

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The distance between Santa Monica and San Diego is approximately 119 miles, or 134.5 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes to reach San Diego from Santa Monica. By car, it takes approximately 2 hours and 16 minutes to travel from San Diego to Santa Monica. Taking a bus from Santa Monica to San Diego takes approximately 5 hours and 16 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option from Santa Monica to San Diego is by taking the train, with prices ranging from $8 to $90. Although it takes 4 hours and 52 minutes, it is a more affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking only 2 hours and 16 minutes and costing around $24 to $35. Ultimately, the decision depends on the traveler's budget and preference for time savings.
The prices for a train ticket between Santa Monica and San Diego can range from $9 to $89, depending on the type of train and the class of ticket chosen. Similarly, the prices for a bus ticket between the two cities can range from $15 to $57, depending on the bus company and the type of seat selected. It is advisable to check the options and compare prices before making a decision on the mode of transportation.
To travel from Santa Monica to San Diego without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive the 134-mile distance. The drive typically takes around 2 hours and 16 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of renting a car for this journey can vary between $24 and $35, depending on the rental company and vehicle chosen.
To travel from Santa Monica to San Diego without a car, the best option is to take a train. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes and the ticket prices range from $8 to $90 depending on the class and time of booking. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 5 hours and 16 minutes, but the travel time can vary depending on traffic conditions. It's also possible to take a combination of bus and flight, which takes around 3 hours and 32 minutes.
Yes, there is a link between Santa Monica and San Diego, although there is no direct train or bus route. The fastest option is to take a train, which takes approximately 4 hours and 52 minutes, including transfers at Downtown Santa Monica Station and Los Angeles. Another option is to take a bus, which takes approximately 5 hours and 50 minutes, including transfers at 5th / Santa Monica station and Los Angeles Union Station. Both modes of transportation offer convenient connections to reach San Diego from Santa Monica.
The flight from Santa Monica to San Diego typically takes around 59 minutes. This is the quickest and most convenient mode of transportation between the two cities. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors like the airline, time of booking, and availability, but it usually ranges from around $100 to $200 for a one-way ticket. It is always recommended to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near San Diego. With over 1163 hotels to choose from, you can find something to suit your needs and budget. Prices start at $53, giving you a range of options to choose from. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly option, or something in between, there are plenty of choices available in San Diego.

Trips from Santa Monica

Trips to San Diego