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Santa Monica, CA, USA to San Francisco, CA, USA from $25: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

How to Get from Santa Monica to San Francisco: 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.

$25 by trainBest price
618 kmDistance
3h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to San Francisco 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
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
3h  47m
Estimated price
$64-242
Recommended
Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
13h  48m
Estimated price
$25-178
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 618 km
Duration: 3h 47m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
3h  57m
Estimated price
$56-303
Company
various
Bus
Plane
BART
Average Duration
5h  12m
Estimated price
$73-294
Company
various
Tram
Plane
Average Duration
5h  28m
Estimated price
$92-640
Company
various
Tram
Plane
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$641-642
Company
various
Tram
Bus
Plane
BART
Average Duration
6h 
Estimated price
$643-644
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  46m
Estimated price
$645-646
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
12h  7m
Estimated price
$647-648
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  19m
Estimated price
$647-648
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Traveling From Santa Monica to San Francisco

Traveling along California's coast takes you from the sunny beaches of Santa Monica to the iconic hills and vibrant culture of San Francisco, creating a journey filled with diverse landscapes and experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Francisco

San Francisco boasts a variety of vibrant neighborhoods, each with distinct charm.

Mission District
• Renowned for its street art and murals.
• Offers a diverse array of taquerias.
Nob Hill
• Home to elegant hotels and historic architecture.
• Scenic views of the Bay and city skyline.
Fisherman’s Wharf
• Famous for fresh seafood and sea lions.
• Bustling shops and attractions are nearby.

Best Times To Visit San Francisco's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience in San Francisco's iconic spots.

Golden Gate Bridge
Early mornings or weekdays provide fewer crowds and stunning light.
Alcatraz Island
Reserve your tickets for the first ferry of the day to enjoy quieter tours.
Chinatown
Visit on a weekday morning to explore shops with fewer visitors.

San Francisco Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Francisco enjoys a coastal climate characterized by mild, foggy summers and cool, rainy winters, making layers essential for your visits. The best times to explore the city usually fall between September and November, when you can appreciate warm sun and fewer crowds.

Dining Recommendation

For a taste of San Francisco, try the clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl at Fisherman’s Wharf, where the rich flavors of the ocean meet the city’s iconic bread-making tradition. This experience, with its bustling waterfront atmosphere and freshly sourced seafood, stands in delightful contrast to the fresh, health-focused dining scene of Santa Monica.

Santa Monica - San Francisco operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Los Angeles to San Francisco

Average Duration
7h 15m
Estimated price
$649-648
Contact phone
+1 310-451-5444
Website
http://www.bigbluebus.com

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

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$563-562
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop to San Jose

Average Duration
8h 40m
Estimated price
$0-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Los Angeles to Oakland

Average Duration
11h 15m
Estimated price
$2424-2425
Contact phone
+1 800-660-4287
Website
http://www.caltrain.com

Train from San Jose Diridon Caltrain to San Francisco Caltrain

Average Duration
1h 39m
Estimated price
$565-5632
Contact phone
+1-510-464-6000
Website
http://www.bart.gov

Train from Coliseum to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
24m
Estimated price
$560-561

Train from Milpitas to Civic Center / UN Plaza

Average Duration
1h 5m
Estimated price
$1788-1789
Plane
Website
http://www.southwest.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
$2421-2426

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to Oakland (OAK)

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
$2427-2428

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Jose (SJC)

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$2429-250
Website
http://www.united.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$259-1780

Plane from Burbank to San Francisco

Average Duration
1h 33m
Estimated price
$2420-1781
Website
http://www.aa.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
$259-255
Website
http://www.jetblue.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$2429-1783
Website
http://www.alaskaair.com

Plane from Los Angeles (LAX) to San Francisco (SFO)

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$2429-6450

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

Traveling between Santa Monica and San Francisco 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 journey from the sunny shores of Santa Monica to the vibrant city of San Francisco, spanning a distance of 384 miles. 💰 Experience the flexibility of pricing options, with the cost of traveling by car from Santa Monica to San Francisco typically ranging between $65 to $110.
Average price
$65 - $110
🚆 The entire trip, including transfers, takes approximately 13 hours and 48 minutes, offering passengers a comfortable and relaxing ride. 🚆 Train services operated by Amtrak provide a convenient and affordable option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful cities of Santa Monica and San Francisco. Prices for the journey range from $25 to $178, depending on the class and amenities chosen.
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
Oakland station
Useful tips for train travellers
• For your train journey, you can choose from Amtrak and Metrolink as your operators. Amtrak offers different classes, including Business Class with reserved seating and complimentary snacks and beverages, and Economy Class featuring standard seating. You can find more information about their services on their respective websites: Amtrak and Metrolink.
• On board, you can enjoy Amtrak's dining options that include a Café Car where you can purchase light meals, snacks, and beverages. Complimentary drinks are often offered in Business Class. It’s advisable to check the menu once you board, as selection may vary, and consider bringing your own snacks for the journey.
• Upon arrival at San Francisco's Caltrain Station, you will have access to luggage storage services located at the station, allowing you to explore the city without carrying your bags. The restrooms are available for use, but note that there are no shower facilities. To get to the city center quickly, you can catch the Muni Metro K, L, or M lines directly from the Caltrain Station. These lines will take you to various key destinations in the city, including Union Square.
🛫 Embark on a quick and convenient journey from Santa Monica to San Francisco by catching a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport. In just 1 hour and 20 minutes, you'll be soaring through the skies towards your destination.
Departure Point
Los Angeles Airport
Arrival Point
San Francisco Airport
🚌 The trip, operated by Flixbus USA, involves a transfer in Los Angeles and takes approximately 8 hours and 46 minutes to reach the iconic city of San Francisco. 🚌 With ticket prices ranging from $31 to $111, this bus adventure offers a budget-friendly way to explore the stunning coastal landscapes of California between Santa Monica and San Francisco.
Departure Point
Los Angeles station
Arrival Point
San Francisco station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Monica and San Francisco is approximately 342 miles. By car, it takes about 6 hours and 19 minutes to travel between the two cities. Taking a bus from Santa Monica to San Francisco would take roughly 8 hours and 46 minutes. If opting for train travel, the journey from Santa Monica to San Francisco would take approximately 13 hours and 48 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Monica to San Francisco is by taking a bus, which typically costs between $30 and $120 and takes approximately 8 hours and 46 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to take a line 3 bus to Los Angeles and then fly to San Francisco, which can cost between $60 and $260 and takes about 3 hours and 46 minutes. It ultimately depends on the budget and time constraints of the traveler.
The prices for traveling from Santa Monica to San Francisco by train range from $25 to $178, depending on factors such as the class of service and how far in advance the ticket is booked. On the other hand, bus tickets for the same route can cost anywhere from $31 to $111, also depending on factors like the bus company and the time of booking. It's important to note that these prices may fluctuate and it's advisable to check with the respective transportation providers for the most up-to-date information.
To get from Santa Monica to San Francisco without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 384 miles. The journey typically takes around 6 hours and 19 minutes by car. The prices for renting a car and driving from Santa Monica to San Francisco range from $65 to $110, depending on factors such as the type of vehicle and rental company.
The best way to travel from Santa Monica to San Francisco without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 46 minutes and tickets can range from $30 to $120. This is a convenient and affordable option for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.
Yes, there is no direct train or bus link between Santa Monica and San Francisco. The train journey from Santa Monica to San Francisco takes approximately 13 hours and 48 minutes, including transfers. Alternatively, the bus journey takes approximately 8 hours and 46 minutes, including transfers. It is recommended to plan your travel in advance and check the schedules for the best options.
The flight between Santa Monica and San Francisco typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. This is based on the quickest direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Francisco Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline, time of travel and availability of tickets. On average, a one-way flight ticket can range from $100 to $300.
There are multiple options for accommodation near San Francisco. With over 835 hotels available, travelers have a wide range to choose from. Prices start at $74 per night, making it possible to find affordable accommodations in the area. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, there are plenty of choices available to suit different preferences and budgets.

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