Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA bus with FlixBus

Mon, Nov 16
+ Add return
FlixBus
Infobus
Futura Net
Tufesa Internacional
Greyhound
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
Infobus
Futura Net
Tufesa Internacional
Greyhound
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 16
Cheapest price on Nov 16
$27
Average ticket price on Nov 16
$31
Fastest journey on Nov 16
2 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Nov 16
3 h 50 m
Buses on Nov 16
2
Distance
191 km
Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.

Fast buses

On Mon, Nov 16, we found 2 buses from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA, including 2 direct services.

On Mon, Nov 16 the direct buses cover the 191 km distance in an average of 3 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 55 m .

On Mon, Nov 16 the slowest buses will take 4 h 45 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.

  • FlixBus
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA run on average 16 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 if you book in advance.

There are 16 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 2h 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
118 miles (191 km)
Average bus duration
3h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
$22
Buses per day
16
Direct buses
16
Fastest bus
2h 0m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
1 day
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

Frequently asked questions about your Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA.

Cheap bus tickets from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $22 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is $47 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 16 direct buses a day from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus, Infobus, Futura Net, Tufesa Internacional, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.

Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Tufesa Internacional
Departure Time
12:45AM
Arrival Time
03:30AM
Duration
2h45
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:30AM
Arrival Time
04:45AM
Duration
3h15
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
Tufesa Internacional
Departure Time
02:15AM
Arrival Time
05:00AM
Duration
2h45
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:30AM
Arrival Time
05:45AM
Duration
3h15
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
Tufesa Internacional
Departure Time
04:00AM
Arrival Time
06:45AM
Duration
2h45
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
Tufesa Internacional
Departure Time
04:15AM
Arrival Time
06:45AM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
Futura Net
Departure Time
05:15AM
Arrival Time
08:04AM
Duration
2h49
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
Futura Net
Departure Time
07:30AM
Arrival Time
10:49AM
Duration
3h19
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
Futura Net
Departure Time
09:30AM
Arrival Time
11:49AM
Duration
2h19
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
Futura Net
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
12:49PM
Duration
2h49
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
Futura Net
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
02:49PM
Duration
3h19
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
Futura Net
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
04:19PM
Duration
2h49
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
Tufesa Internacional
Departure Time
02:15PM
Arrival Time
05:35PM
Duration
3h20
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
Tufesa Internacional
Departure Time
02:30PM
Arrival Time
05:00PM
Duration
2h30
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
Futura Net
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
07:19PM
Duration
3h19
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
Futura Net
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
08:19PM
Duration
2h19
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:25PM
Arrival Time
10:40PM
Duration
4h15
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:25PM
Arrival Time
12:10AM
Duration
4h45
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
Futura Net
Departure Time
08:00PM
Arrival Time
11:19PM
Duration
3h19
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:25PM
Arrival Time
01:20AM
Duration
2h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$34

Live departures

Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA bus times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA buses for today, Sunday, November 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Futura Net01:30 PM Santa Monica, CA
2h49
4:19 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Tufesa Internacional02:15 PM Santa Monica, CA
3h20
5:35 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Tufesa Internacional02:15 PM Santa Monica, CA
2h45
5:00 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Tufesa Internacional02:30 PM Santa Monica, CA
2h30
5:00 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Futura Net04:00 PM Santa Monica, CA
3h19
7:19 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Futura Net08:00 PM Santa Monica, CA
3h19
11:19 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as Infobus, Futura Net, Tufesa Internacional, Greyhound and more offer buses services from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA.

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus, Futura Net, Tufesa Internacional or Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Busbud?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus, Futura Net, Tufesa Internacional or Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA.

Bus providers: FlixBus, Futura Net, Tufesa Internacional, Greyhound, Infobus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CAYou can travel by bus between Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA with FlixBus, Futura Net, Tufesa Internacional, Greyhound, Infobus for as low as $22. 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
2h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$22
FlixBus frequency
16 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.

Infobus

About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Infobus Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Infobus Price
$46
Infobus frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.

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
2h 55m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
$26
Greyhound frequency
4 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.

Futura Net

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Futura Net Duration
2h 19m
Cheapest Futura Net Price
$47
Futura Net frequency
7 a day

Tufesa Internacional

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Tufesa Internacional Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest Tufesa Internacional Price
$48
Tufesa Internacional frequency
2 a day

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Santa Monica, CA and San Diego, CA

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

When taking a bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA, you can count on FlixBus, Infobus, Futura Net, Tufesa Internacional, Greyhound for the best way to get you to San Diego, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Santa Monica, CA and San Diego, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA:
  • Infobus
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
  • Greyhound
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA for bus company FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA depends on the bus companies:
  • Infobus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
  • 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA:
  • Infobus
    • One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
  • 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 Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA:
  • Infobus
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • Greyhound
    • $15 per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA. The following conditions apply:
  • Infobus
    • Small pets allowed in carriers
    • larger pets may require a separate ticket.
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound.

Complete guide to San Diego, CA

Things to do in San Diego, CA

Discover the best of San Diego, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego, CA trip today.

  • Must visit

San Diego Museum of Art

Major Balboa Park museum with works from Spanish old masters to modern art, plus strong regional and international exhibitions.

  • Must visit

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Acclaimed contemporary art museum in La Jolla featuring oceanfront settings, modern works, and rotating global exhibitions.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

Museum aboard a historic aircraft carrier with restored aircraft, naval exhibits, and immersive views of life at sea.

US Dollar ($)

San Diego is pricey for US travel, with higher hotel rates, dining, and parking than many cities, though casual food and buses stay manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$25-45 per person for a mid-range meal.
Fine dining
$75+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 for coffee drinks or small cafe orders.

Plan your visit to San Diego, CA

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in San Diego, CA.

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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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.

FAQs: Bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Monica, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
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.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA

Most Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA buses use the to San Diego station pair, with some services arriving at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. Use this guide to compare Santa Monica, CA and San Diego, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Santa Monica
Arrival bus stations in San Diego

Which San Diego, CA station do buses from Santa Monica, CA arrive at?

Buses from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA most often arrive at San Diego. Some services arrive at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Diego, CA arrival station.
San DiegoSan Diego, CA, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to San Diego from San Diego city centre

Bus215, 225, 235, 910 · 5m · $6 · every ~22 min
TramBlue, Orange · 2m · every ~15 min

San Diego bus station facilities and services

San Diego has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: There are fast food outlets nearby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at San Diego. ATMs are available at San Diego.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at San Diego.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San Diego: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego: Station is accessible for individuals with disabilities.

San Diego, San Ysidro Transit CenterSan Ysidro Station, San Diego, CA 92173, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center from San Diego city centre

San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center is 22 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:

BusFlixBus 2017 · 25m · $3
910 · 41m · $6
TramBlue · 41m · $17 · every ~14 min
Blue · 43m · $17 · every ~14 min

San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center bus station facilities and services

San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Several fast food eateries located nearby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center. ATMs are available near the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, San Ysidro Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.

San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park)Congress St, San Diego, CA 92110, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) from San Diego city centre

San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) is 5 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:

BusFlixBus 2017 · 20m · $2
83 · 26m · $6
TramGreen, Blue, Event · 16m · every ~18 min
Blue · 21m · every ~9 min

San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) bus station facilities and services

San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Several dining options nearby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park). ATMs are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego, Congress Street (Old Town Park): Wheelchair accessible routes available.

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to San Diego, CASanta Monica, CA to San Diego, CA bus

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