The cheapest and fastest buses from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA
Cheapest price
$9
Average price
$9
Fastest journey
1 h 15 m
Average duration
1 h 15 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
73 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA will cost around $9 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.
Of the 1 buses that leave Santa Monica, CA for Irvine, CA on Wed, Mar 18, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Mar 18 the direct buses cover the 73 km distance in an average of 1 h 15 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 15 m .
On Wed, Mar 18 the slowest buses will take 1 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.


Compare prices and tickets Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA by bus
Compare bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Mar 18
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Mar 24
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA
Buses from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA run on average 11 times per day, taking around 1h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $9 (€7) if you book in advance.
There are 11 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 45 miles (73 km) distance in 1h 15m.
Distance 45 miles (73 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $9 (€7) |
Buses per day 11 |
Direct buses 11 |
Fastest bus 1h 15m |
First bus 00:15 |
Last bus 23:30 |
FAQs: Bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, 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 Irvine, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

- Orange County Great Park, a large public park offering sports facilities, a carousel, and a giant helium balloon ride for panoramic views
- Irvine Spectrum Center, a popular outdoor shopping center with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options including a Ferris wheel
- Bommer Canyon, a nature preserve with hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding hills
- Pretend City Children's Museum, an interactive museum designed for children to explore and learn through play
- Irvine Museum, a museum dedicated to the preservation and display of California Impressionist art.
- Tanaka Farms, a family-friendly farm offering seasonal tours and fresh produce picking
- Irvine Barclay Theatre, a venue offering a variety of performances including music, dance, and theater
- San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary, a peaceful place for bird watching and enjoying nature
- K1 Speed, an indoor go-kart racing track for thrill-seekers
- William R. Mason Regional Park, a large park with picnic areas, walking trails, and a lake for paddle boating.
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Popular bus stations from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA
Most popular bus connections from Santa Monica, CA
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