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Santa Monica, CA, USA to Santa Ana, CA, USA from $3: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Santa Monica to Santa Ana: 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.

$3 by busBest price
75 kmDistance
50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Monica to Santa Ana 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
2h  48m
Estimated price
$5-69
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
3h  23m
Estimated price
$3-67
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 75 km
Duration: 50m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  46m
Estimated price
$5-37
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$8-50
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
3h  30m
Estimated price
$10-24
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$190-230
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Traveling From Santa Monica to Santa Ana

This route takes you from the vibrant beach culture of Santa Monica to the diverse urban life of Santa Ana, showcasing the contrasting experiences between sunny shores and bustling cityscapes.

Best Neighborhoods in Santa Ana

Santa Ana boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

Downtown Santa Ana
• Features art galleries and trendy cafes.
• Hosts lively events and music festivals.
Santa Ana Historic District
• Showcases stunning historic architecture.
• Offers charming boutiques and local eateries.
South Coast Metro
• Known for upscale shopping and dining.
• Home to cultural venues like the Segerstrom Center.

Best Times To Visit Santa Ana's Attractions

Planning your visit to Santa Ana's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Bowers Museum
Weekdays in the morning offer a quieter visit to enjoy the exhibits.
Santa Ana Zoo
Visit early on weekends to avoid peak afternoon crowds.
Orange County Market Place
Arrive early on Saturdays for a more relaxed shopping experience.

Santa Ana Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Santa Ana enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, creating inviting conditions for outdoor activities year-round. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit, as pleasant temperatures enhance your travel experience and make exploration enjoyable.

Dining Recommendation in Santa Ana

Try the authentic birria tacos at La Vida Cantina in Santa Ana, where the rich, bold flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine stand in contrast to the fresh seafood and California fare of Santa Monica. The lively atmosphere, complete with vibrant decor and local ingredients, creates a distinctive dining experience that celebrates the area's cultural heritage.

Santa Monica - Santa Ana operators

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

Bus
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
$53-53

Bus from 5th / Santa Monica to Patsaouras Transit Plaza

Average Duration
1h 36m
Estimated price
$53-53
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Santa Ana Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$3-35

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Santa Ana

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$5-24
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com/

Bus from Los Angeles Union Station to Santa Ana Bus Stop

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
$5-35
Train
Contact phone
+1-323-466-3876
Website
https://www.metro.net/

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

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$53-54
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Los Angeles to Santa Ana

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$54-55
Website
https://metrolinktrains.com

Train from L. A. Union Station to Santa Ana station

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$8-532
Taxi
Contact phone
+1 877.733.3305
Website
https://layellowcab.com

Taxi from Santa Monica to Santa Ana

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$190-230

Taxi from Santa Monica to Santa Ana

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$190-230
Other Show other routes

Other from Santa Monica to Santa Ana

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$8-50

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

Traveling between Santa Monica and Santa Ana 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.

🚗 As you embark on your journey from Santa Monica to Santa Ana, prepare for a picturesque drive spanning 46 miles along the Southern California coastline. 💸 Prices for the trip by car typically range from $8 to $13, providing an affordable and convenient way to explore the vibrant city of Santa Ana. 🌴 Enjoy the smooth and scenic drive that takes around 50 minutes, where you can discover the unique attractions and cultural gems awaiting you in Santa Ana
Average price
$8 - $13
🚆 For a scenic journey from Santa Monica to Santa Ana by train, travelers will need to take a route that includes transfers. Departing from Downtown Santa Monica Station, passengers will make their way through 7th Street / Metro Center Station - Metro B & D Lines and Los Angeles before reaching Santa Ana. 🌆 The total duration of the trip, including transfers along the way, is approximately 2 hours and 48 minutes. Despite the lack of a direct train service, the adventure of changing trains adds a touch of excitement to the travel experience, offering a unique perspective of these Southern California cities.
Departure Point
Downtown Santa Monica Station
Arrival Point
Santa Ana station
🚌 The trip from Santa Monica to Santa Ana by bus involves a transfer at Los Angeles Union Station, making the journey approximately 3 hours and 46 minutes in total. 🚌 Metro Los Angeles operates the bus service departing from 5th / Santa Monica station, and Greyhound USA services arrive at Santa Ana Bus Stop station. The price for a bus ticket between Santa Monica and Santa Ana can range from $5 to $37.
Departure Point
5th / Santa Monica station
Arrival Point
Santa Ana Bus Stop station

Frequently asked questions

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

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The distance between Santa Monica and Santa Ana is approximately 41 miles by road. It takes approximately 46.4 miles to drive between the two cities. The typical travel time by taking a combination of tram and train is around 2 hours and 48 minutes. If traveling by car, the exact travel time would depend on traffic conditions. Finally, taking a bus would take approximately 3 hours and 44 minutes to reach Santa Ana from Santa Monica.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santa Monica to Santa Ana is driving. It costs between $8 and $13 and takes approximately 50 minutes. Alternatively, taking a taxi is the quickest way, also taking about 50 minutes, but it is considerably more expensive, costing between $190 and $230. Ultimately, driving is both economical and efficient for this journey.
The prices for traveling by bus between Santa Monica and Santa Ana can range from $7 to $37. The exact price will depend on factors such as the time of travel, the company operating the bus service, and any promotions or discounts available. It is advisable to check with different bus operators and websites to compare prices and find the best deal for your trip.
To travel from Santa Monica to Santa Ana without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is 46 miles, and it takes approximately 50 minutes to complete the journey by car. The prices for this route can vary, with toll costs ranging from $8 to $13, depending on the specific route taken.
To travel from Santa Monica to Santa Ana without a car, the best option is to take a tram and a train. This journey takes approximately 2 hours and 48 minutes. The cost of this mode of transportation ranges from $4 to $70. It provides a convenient and cost-effective way to reach your destination without relying on a car.
Yes, there is a connection between Santa Monica and Santa Ana but it is not a direct link. For train travel, you would need to take the tram and then transfer to a train, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours and 48 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive between the two cities, which is about a 46.4-mile journey. If you prefer to take a bus, the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 44 minutes, including transfers.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Santa Ana with over 779 hotels available. Prices for these hotels start at $69, catering to a range of budgets. Some popular hotel chains in the area include Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt. Visitors can choose from a variety of amenities and locations, from hotels near the John Wayne Airport to those closer to the city center of Santa Ana.

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