- Must visit
Orange County Museum of Art
Major contemporary art museum in nearby Costa Mesa, widely visited for its architecture and changing exhibitions.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA
USAUSA
Take a bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA and enjoy the approximately 45 miles (73 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
There are 10 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 06:25, the last at 22:50.
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 45 miles (73 km) |
Buses per day 10 |
Direct buses 10 |
First bus 6:25 AM |
Last bus 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Complete guide to Irvine
Things to do in Irvine
Discover the best of Irvine — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Irvine trip today.
- Recommended
Jack and Shanaz Langson Institute and Museum of California Art
University museum focused on California art, with rotating exhibitions and a strong regional perspective.
- Recommended
Pretend City Children’s Museum
Interactive children’s museum with a miniature city designed for hands-on learning and family visits.
- Must visit
Orange County Great Park
Vast public park with sports fields, gardens, art spaces, and the city’s signature balloon attraction.
- Must visit
San Joaquin Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary
Tranquil wetland walking area with birdlife, reflective ponds, and easy trails close to central Irvine.
- Recommended
Bommer Canyon
Scenic open-space preserve with hiking trails, oak woodland, and a more local feel than busier parks.
- Gluten-free
Fish Tacos
A Southern California staple of grilled or fried fish in tortillas with cabbage, salsa, and crema. Irvine locals commonly enjoy it as a casual coastal comfort food.
California Burrito
A regional favorite filled with carne asada, fries, cheese, and salsa. It reflects the Mexican American fast-casual food culture found across Orange County.
- Gluten-free
Poke Bowl
A popular Hawaiian-inspired dish of marinated raw fish over rice with fresh toppings. It is especially common in Irvine because of the city’s broader Pacific Rim food scene.
HiroNori Craft Ramen - Irvine
Popular ramen shop known for rich tonkotsu broth, handmade noodles, and a modern casual atmosphere.
Din Tai Fung Irvine
Well-known Taiwanese restaurant famous for soup dumplings, noodles, and precise service in a polished, lively setting.
North Italia Irvine
Stylish Italian restaurant serving housemade pasta, pizza, and cocktails, suitable for both casual dinners and date nights.
United States Dollar
Irvine is pricier than many U.S. cities, especially for hotels and dining, though casual meals are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for coffee jars.
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.
The earliest bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 6:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA leaves at 10:50 PM.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA is July.
Yes, you can take a between Santa Monica, CA and Irvine, CA.
No, the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Irvine, CA are:
- 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.
The best things to do in Irvine, CA include:
- 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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA.
Since neither Santa Monica, CA nor Irvine, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
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 Irvine, CA, travelers should be aware of common safety concerns such as occasional vehicle break-ins and petty theft in parking areas. Scam attempts may include fake ticket sellers or unlicensed transportation services, so it is advised to purchase tickets from reputable sources and verify service credentials. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Santa Monica, CA
More options for your journey from Santa Monica, CA to Irvine, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Irvine, CA and Santa Monica, CA
Most popular bus connections to Irvine, CA
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
