- Recommended
California Heritage Museum
Contemporary art museum on Main Street with rotating exhibitions, artist talks, and a strong local cultural role near the beach.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 08
Cheapest price on Oct 08
lei224
Average ticket price on Oct 08
lei224
Fastest journey on Oct 08
9 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Oct 08
9 h 15 m
Buses on Oct 08
1
Distance
547 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA will cost around lei224 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only lei224.
Fast buses
On Thu, Oct 08, we found 1 buses from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA, including 1 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 08 the direct buses cover the 547 km distance in an average of 9 h 15 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 9 h 15 m .
On Thu, Oct 08 the slowest buses will take 9 h 15 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5:40 AM9h15San Francisco, CA2:55 PMSanta Monica, CAlei2241One-way0 transfers
- 5:40 AM9h15San Francisco, CA2:55 PMSanta Monica, CAlei2241One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA
USAUSA
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA run on average 5 times per day, taking around 10h 21m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at lei199 if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 339 miles (547 km) distance in 7h 0m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 339 miles (547 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price lei199 |
Buses per day 5 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 7h 0m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:00AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price lei320 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:05AM | Arrival Time 08:10AM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price lei279 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price lei224 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price lei314 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price lei626 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 02:50AM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei419 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:40PM | Arrival Time 05:10AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price lei293 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 09:34PM | Arrival Time 07:55AM | Duration 10h21 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price lei536 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price lei336 |
Why should you book San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CAYou can travel by bus between San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as lei199. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
7h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
lei205
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greyhound Duration
9h 15m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
lei199
Greyhound frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Santa Monica, CA
Things to do in Santa Monica, CA
Discover the best of Santa Monica, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Santa Monica, CA trip today.
- Recommended
Santa Monica History Museum
Compact history museum in a landmark home and library. It explores Santa Monica's development through photographs, archives, and local stories.
Gallery Luisotti
Bergamot gallery showing changing exhibitions of contemporary art by established and emerging artists in a relaxed setting.
- Must visit
Third Street Promenade
Lively pedestrian shopping street with performers, public art, and easy access to downtown Santa Monica's shops and entertainment.
- Must visit
Santa Monica State Beach
Broad sandy beach with bike path, volleyball courts, and iconic coastal views. A top place for walking, relaxing, and watching sunsets.
- Recommended
Palisades Park
Oceanfront bluff park with walking paths, sculptures, and sweeping Pacific views. Ideal for an easy stroll above the beach and pier.
- Gluten-free
Sea Urchin Rice Bowl
A Japanese rice bowl loaded with fresh sea urchin from the nearby coast. It reflects Santa Monica's strong seafood culture and Japanese dining influence.
- Gluten-free
Pacific Oysters
Fresh Pacific oysters served raw or simply dressed. They are a classic coastal choice that highlights the city's access to high-quality shellfish.
Fish Tacos
A fish taco made with local-style grilled or fried fish, cabbage, salsa, and crema. It reflects Southern California beach food and Mexican influence.
KazuNori Santa Monica
Casual Japanese spot specializing in fresh sushi, sashimi, and rice bowls. A reliable choice for sea urchin and other seafood favorites.
Water Grill Santa Monica
Elegant seafood restaurant near the beach serving oysters, crudo, and refined coastal plates in a polished but relaxed room.
Huckleberry Cafe
Popular all-day café known for organic breakfast, salads, and market-driven California dishes in a bright, casual setting.
US Dollar ($)
Santa Monica is pricier than many US beach cities, with high hotel rates, dining costs, and parking; transit is cheaper than rideshares.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-20 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-7 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee if service is notable.
FAQs: Bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Santa Monica, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA can start from as little as lei199 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA is lei391 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA is 7h 0m to travel the 339 miles (547 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Santa Monica, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Francisco, CA and Santa Monica, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from San Francisco, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA . When arriving in Santa Monica, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA, Los Angeles, Gayley / Strathmore, CA, Los Angeles, Cesar E Chavez / Vignes, CA, Los Angeles, Exposition Blvd / South Sepulveda Blvd, CA .Passengers board the bus most frequently from San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station), CA, located 1 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Francisco, CA and Santa Monica, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Santa Monica, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and pickpocketing, especially around crowded areas like the pier and beach. Common scams include overcharging by certain taxi or ride-share drivers and unauthorized street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to keep belongings secure, use licensed transportation, and be wary of overly aggressive solicitors.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA
Most San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA buses use the San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 to Los Angeles, Patsaouras Transit Plaza (Union Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare San Francisco, CA and Santa Monica, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in San Francisco
Arrival bus stations in Santa Monica
Which San Francisco, CA station do buses to Santa Monica, CA leave from?
Buses from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA leave from San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre at Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA.
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29Transit Center Bay 29, San Francisco, CA 94105, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 from San Francisco city centre
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 is 2 km from San Francisco city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus397 · 8m · lei11
14, 14R · 13m · lei11 · every ~30 min
101, 120 · 14m · lei28 · every ~9 min
7 · 21m · lei11 · every ~10 min
SubwayYellow-N, Green-N, Red-N, Blue-N · 10m · lei11 · every ~27 min
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 bus station facilities and services
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29. ATMs are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29: Wheelchair accessible areas present.
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th StreetSan Francisco Bus Station,401 Townsend St,94107
City-centre transport
Getting to San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street from San Francisco city centre
BusEast, West · 20m · every ~4 min
Nbus, Nowl · 24m · lei11 · every ~2 min
TramN · 23m · lei11 · every ~11 min
Most popular bus connections from San Francisco, CA
More options for your journey from San Francisco, CA to Santa Monica, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Santa Monica, CA and San Francisco, CA
Most popular bus connections to Santa Monica, CA
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