Santa Monica, CA, USA to San Jose, CA, USA from $21: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Santa Monica to San Jose: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$21 by trainBest price

483 kmDistance

3h 26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to San Jose 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.

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Traveling From Santa Monica to San Jose

The journey from Santa Monica to San Jose offers a striking contrast between the laid-back beach vibes of the coastal city and the innovative tech atmosphere of Silicon Valley.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose

San Jose features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.

Downtown San Jose

• Vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.

• Cultural attractions like theaters and museums nearby.

The Rose Garden

• Beautiful historic homes and tranquil parks.

• Famous for its stunning rose garden.

Willow Glen

• Charming tree-lined streets and boutique shops.

• Strong sense of community with a welcoming atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit San Jose's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience at San Jose attractions.

The Tech Interactive

Weekdays in the morning offer smaller crowds and better exploration opportunities.

San Jose Museum of Art

Visit on Thursday evenings for extended hours and fewer visitors.

Japanese Friendship Garden

Early weekday mornings provide a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful scenery.

San Jose Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Jose boasts a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, making it a comfortable destination throughout the year. For pleasant temperatures and clear skies, consider visiting during late spring or early fall, as favorable weather enhances outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in San Jose

Consider dining at La Mediterranee, where the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine shine through in dishes like the lamb tagine, offering a hearty departure from Santa Monica's lighter, beach-inspired fare. The cozy, intimate atmosphere paired with fresh, locally sourced ingredients creates a distinct culinary experience that celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of San Jose.

Santa Monica - San Jose operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Monica and San Jose, 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 San Jose Downtown

Average Duration

6h 10m

Estimated price

$2843-2844

Bus from Westwood UCLA Amtrak Bus Stop to San Jose

Average Duration

8h 40m

Estimated price

$0-0

Bus from Lincoln Nb & Santa Monica Fs to San Jose Downtown

Average Duration

7h 41m

Estimated price

$675-679

Bus from Long Beach Airport to San Jose

Average Duration

5h 25m

Estimated price

$671-672

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Los Angeles to San Jose

Average Duration

9h 55m

Estimated price

$2845-2846

Train from Downtown Santa Monica Station to San Jose

Average Duration

11h 53m

Estimated price

$21-164

Plane

Website

southwest.com

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

Average Duration

1h 14m

Estimated price

$210-210

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

Average Duration

1h 21m

Estimated price

$2848-2849

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

Average Duration

1h 26m

Estimated price

$677-28430

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

$1647-1647

Other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

bart.gov

Other from Coliseum to Berryessa / North San Jose

Average Duration

46m

Estimated price

$1642-1643

Drive

Drive from Santa Monica to San Jose

Average Duration

5h 41m

Estimated price

0-0

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

Traveling between Santa Monica and San Jose 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 San Jose, covering a driving distance of 343 miles. Enjoy the journey through diverse landscapes and charming cities along the way. 💰 Prices for the drive from Santa Monica to San Jose range from $60 to $90, offering a budget-friendly option to explore the beauty of California by car. 🌉 Spend roughly 5 hours and 41 minutes on the road, immersing yourself in the adventure of traveling from the iconic beaches of Santa Monica to the vibrant city of San Jose.

Average price

$60 - $90

🚆 Traveling from Santa Monica to San Jose by train involves a journey of approximately 11 hours and 53 minutes with transfers along the way. 🚊 Starting at Downtown Santa Monica Station, passengers will make connections at 7th Street / Metro Center Station in Los Angeles before arriving at San Jose station. 💰 Ticket prices for this route vary from $21 to $164. While there is no direct train, the scenic journey covers a distance of 441 miles through California's diverse landscapes.

Departure Point

Los Angeles station

Arrival Point

San Jose station

🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Santa Monica to San Jose by catching a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport. The flight duration typically lasts about 1 hour and 10 minutes, allowing for a seamless travel experience. Airlines such as American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Inc., and Delta operate flights on this route.

Departure Point

Los Angeles Airport

Arrival Point

San Jose Airport

🚌 Although there is no direct bus from Santa Monica to San Jose, you can still reach your destination via transfers with a total journey time of approximately 7 hours and 41 minutes. 🛣️ The different bus routes from Santa Monica to San Jose vary in duration, ranging from 7 hours 54 minutes to 10 hours 55 minutes. Each route involves transfers and specific bus lines operated by various agencies. 💰 Bus prices between Santa Monica and San Jose range from $29 to $96, offering travelers a more budget-friendly option for exploring the route and enjoying the scenic journey through California.

Departure Point

Los Angeles station

Arrival Point

San Jose Downtown station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Monica and San Jose is approximately 300 miles or 342.7 miles by road. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 11 hours and 53 minutes to reach San Jose from Santa Monica by train, 3 hours and 36 minutes by taking a bus to Los Angeles and then flying to San Jose, 5 hours and 41 minutes by car, and 7 hours and 41 minutes by bus.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Monica to San Jose is by bus, with tickets ranging from $29 to $100. This mode of transportation takes approximately 7 hours and 41 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, taking a line 3 bus to Los Angeles and then flying to San Jose is the quickest option, taking around 3 hours and 36 minutes at a cost of $65 to $270.

When traveling from Santa Monica to San Jose the price range for a train ticket is $21 to $164. On the other hand, the price range for a bus ticket from San Jose to Santa Monica is $29 to $96.

To travel from Santa Monica to San Jose without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The distance between the two cities is 343 miles, and it usually takes around 5 hours and 41 minutes to drive from Santa Monica to San Jose. The cost of the trip by car can vary from $60 to $90, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.

To travel from Santa Monica to San Jose without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 41 minutes, and ticket prices range from $29 to $100. This mode of transportation is convenient and affordable for those who do not have access to a car or prefer not to drive.

Yes, there is a direct link between Santa Monica and San Jose by train and bus. The train journey takes approximately 11 hours and 53 minutes, with transfers at 7th Street / Metro Center Station and Los Angeles. The bus journey takes approximately 7 hours and 41 minutes, with transfers in Los Angeles. However, there is no direct train or bus service available between the two cities without transfers.

The flight between Santa Monica and San Jose typically takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. This is for a direct flight from Los Angeles Airport to San Jose Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability, but it typically ranges from $150 to $300 for a one-way ticket. It is recommended to check with airlines for the most up-to-date and accurate pricing information.

There are numerous hotels available near San Jose to suit different budgets and preferences. With over 684 options to choose from, visitors can easily find accommodation that meets their needs. Prices for hotels in the area start at $49, providing a range of affordable options for travelers. Whether you prefer luxurious resorts or cozy budget accommodations, there are plenty of choices available near San Jose.

Santa Monica, CA, USA to San Jose, CA, USA from $21: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Santa Monica to San Jose: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Santa Monica to San Jose

Best Neighbourhoods in San Jose

Best Times To Visit San Jose's Attractions

San Jose Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in San Jose

Santa Monica - San Jose operators

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

Frequently asked questions

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