Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA bus

Sat, May 02
+ Add return
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Costa Verde
2,000+ travel companies
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
Costa Verde
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 33m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, and a flight costs an average of $64.

Distance: 339 miles (547 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight

$74

Average price

Cheapest

$91

Average price

$149

Average price

12h 23m

Average total duration

11h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 47m

Average total duration

10h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 33m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 33m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Compare prices and tickets Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight 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.

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Journey information

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

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Buses from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA run on average 13 times per day, taking around 11h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 (€34) if you book in advance.

There are 7 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 8h 35m.

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
11h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
$43 (€34)
Buses per day
13
Direct buses
7
Fastest bus
8h 35m
First bus
12:15 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
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

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

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

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $43 (€34) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA is $74 (€59) ; 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 Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA is 8h 35m 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 Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
A trip to San Francisco, CA from Santa Monica, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Santa Monica, CA and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
No, the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Francisco, CA are:
  • Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay
  • Alcatraz Island, a historic site featuring the infamous former prison and informative audio tours
  • Fisherman's Wharf, a bustling waterfront area known for seafood, shops, and sea lions
  • Golden Gate Park, a large urban park with gardens, museums, and recreational activities
  • Chinatown, the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America, offering vibrant culture and cuisine.
The best things to do in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Ride a cable car through the steep streets of San Francisco for a classic city experience
  • Explore the vibrant murals and street art in the Mission District
  • Visit the Exploratorium, an interactive science museum perfect for all ages
  • Take a scenic walk along the Embarcadero, offering views of the Bay Bridge and access to the Ferry Building Marketplace
  • Enjoy a wine tasting tour in nearby Napa Valley, a short drive from the city.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, CA.
No, luggage for the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA.
Since neither Santa Monica, CA nor San Francisco, 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 San Francisco, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Fisherman's Wharf and Union Square. Common scams include distraction techniques used by groups to steal wallets and fake charity solicitations. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night and be wary of unofficial taxi services to ensure safety.
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 Santa Monica, CA to San Francisco, CA

Santa Monica
San Francisco
San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street
San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29
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