San Diego, CA SAN to Santa Monica, CA SMO Flights

Fri, Apr 03
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Journey information

Overview: San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA flight

USAUSA
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Icon of flight

Flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA depart on average 33 times per day, taking around 6h 6m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $113 (€92) but you can travel from only $24 (€19) by bus.

There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 1h 3m. July is the cheapest month to fly.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $24 (€19)
Distance
118 miles (191 km)
Average flight duration
6h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$113 (€92)
Flights per day
33
Direct flights
1
Fastest flight
1h 3m
Cheapest month
July
First flight
12:25 AM
Last flight
11:55 PM
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $24 (€19)

The cheapest and fastest flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA

Showing times and prices for Apr 04

Cheapest price

$227

Average price

$336

Fastest journey

5 h 51 m

Average duration

10 h 41 m

Flights per day

3

Distance

191 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from San Diego, 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 Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA will cost around $336 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $227.

Fast flights

Of the 3 flights that leave San Diego, CA for Santa Monica, CA onSat, Apr 04, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Apr 04 the direct flights cover the 191 km distance in an average of 10 h 41 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 5 h 51 m .

On Sat, Apr 04 the longest flights will take 14 h 5 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.

  • American Airlines
    12:25 AM14h05
    San Diego, CA
    2:30 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $2271One-way
    0 transfers
  • American Airlines
    3:30 AM12h08
    San Diego, CA
    3:38 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $2921One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    12:08 AM5h51
    San Diego, CA
    5:59 AMSanta Monica, CA
    $4881One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 22m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $113.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus
Train

$389

Average price

$33

Average price

Cheapest

$50

Average price

9h 6m

Average total duration

6h 6m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 8m

Average total duration

4h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA flights for today, Thursday, April 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
unitedUA20571:20 PM San Diego International Airport
1h02
2:22 PM Los Angeles International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA1694 · AA27891:24 PM San Diego International Airport
5h34
6:58 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1694+skywest_airlinesAA6271 · AA64591:24 PM San Diego International Airport
7h00
8:24 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA1694+skywest_airlinesAA6271 · AA63911:24 PM San Diego International Airport
12h32
1:56 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA1694 · AA27421:24 PM San Diego International Airport
9h17
10:41 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1694 · AA1541 · AA18241:24 PM San Diego International Airport
13h37
3:01 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA1694 · AA10381:24 PM San Diego International Airport
12h17
1:41 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1694+skywest_airlinesAA63991:24 PM San Diego International Airport
11h56
1:20 AM Burbank1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1694 · AA440 · AA18241:24 PM San Diego International Airport
13h37
3:01 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA1694+skywest_airlinesAA6391+envoy_airAA40491:24 PM San Diego International Airport
12h32
1:56 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA1694+envoy_airAA40581:24 PM San Diego International Airport
6h10
7:34 PM Burbank1 transfer
unitedUA1714 · UA21541:32 PM San Diego International Airport
6h26
7:58 PM Burbank1 transfer
unitedUA2630 · UA5383 · UA53071:36 PM San Diego International Airport
8h58
10:34 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2630 · UA21151:36 PM San Diego International Airport
4h59
6:35 PM Burbank1 transfer
unitedUA2274 · UA5383 · UA53072:20 PM San Diego International Airport
8h14
10:34 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2274 · UA21152:20 PM San Diego International Airport
4h15
6:35 PM Burbank1 transfer
unitedUA2274 · UA11642:20 PM San Diego International Airport
4h28
6:48 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5519 · UA11642:35 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h13
6:48 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5519 · UA21152:35 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h00
6:35 PM Burbank1 transfer
unitedUA5519 · UA26612:35 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h45
7:20 PM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5519 · UA6432:35 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h43
7:18 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5519 · UA24412:35 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h33
9:08 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5519 · UA15062:35 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h04
8:39 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2648 · UA5383 · UA53074:46 PM San Diego International Airport
5h48
10:34 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2648 · UA24414:46 PM San Diego International Airport
4h22
9:08 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2648 · UA5464 · UA56474:46 PM San Diego International Airport
9h07
1:53 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA2247 · AA13534:53 PM San Diego International Airport
12h01
4:54 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2247 · AA27424:53 PM San Diego International Airport
5h48
10:41 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2247 · AA1541 · AA18244:53 PM San Diego International Airport
10h08
3:01 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA2247+skywest_airlinesAA6499 · AA63914:53 PM San Diego International Airport
9h03
1:56 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA2247+skywest_airlinesAA63994:53 PM San Diego International Airport
8h27
1:20 AM Burbank1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2247 · AA10384:53 PM San Diego International Airport
8h48
1:41 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2247+skywest_airlinesAA6505 · AA63914:53 PM San Diego International Airport
9h03
1:56 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA2247+skywest_airlinesAA6391+envoy_airAA37864:53 PM San Diego International Airport
9h03
1:56 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2309 · UA5464 · UA56476:00 PM San Diego International Airport
7h53
1:53 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2309 · UA6266:00 PM San Diego International Airport
5h22
11:22 PM Burbank1 transfer
unitedUA2309 · UA54406:00 PM San Diego International Airport
4h43
10:43 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
unitedUA53846:01 PM San Diego International Airport
1h10
7:11 PM Los Angeles International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2493 · UA24117:40 PM San Diego International Airport
8h09
3:49 AM Burbank1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2057 · AA13538:16 PM San Diego International Airport
8h38
4:54 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2057 · AA1195 · AA26908:16 PM San Diego International Airport
19h12
3:28 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA2057+skywest_airlinesAA63998:16 PM San Diego International Airport
5h04
1:20 AM Burbank1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2057 · AA10388:16 PM San Diego International Airport
5h25
1:41 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2057+skywest_airlinesAA6391+envoy_airAA37868:16 PM San Diego International Airport
5h40
1:56 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1763 · UA17548:20 PM San Diego International Airport
4h31
12:51 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1763 · UA10978:20 PM San Diego International Airport
4h59
1:19 AM Burbank1 transfer
unitedUA1763 · UA15618:20 PM San Diego International Airport
4h27
12:47 AM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5599 · UA17548:43 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h08
12:51 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5599 · UA15618:43 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h04
12:47 AM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5599 · UA5898:43 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
7h12
3:55 AM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5599 · UA14278:43 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h26
3:09 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5599 · UA56508:43 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h45
1:28 AM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5599 · UA10978:43 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h36
1:19 AM Burbank1 transfer
unitedUA2117 · UA58911:21 PM San Diego International Airport
4h34
3:55 AM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2117 · UA240911:21 PM San Diego International Airport
4h34
3:55 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1950 · AA135311:55 PM San Diego International Airport
4h59
4:54 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1950 · AA559 · AA269011:55 PM San Diego International Airport
15h33
3:28 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA1950 · AA195611:55 PM San Diego International Airport
14h24
2:19 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
Friday, April 3
united12:08 AM San Diego, CA
5h51
5:59 AM Santa Monica, CA0 transfersDirect
american_airlines12:25 AM San Diego, CA
14h05
2:30 PM Santa Monica, CA0 transfersDirect
unitedUA1302 · UA57771:22 AM San Diego International Airport
4h28
5:50 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1302 · UA5521:22 AM San Diego International Airport
4h23
5:45 AM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA3121 · AA1611 · AA18892:52 AM San Diego International Airport
17h03
7:55 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA3121+skywest_airlinesAA49882:52 AM San Diego International Airport
13h38
4:30 PM Burbank1 transfer
american_airlinesAA3121 · AA19562:52 AM San Diego International Airport
11h27
2:19 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA3121 · AA32462:52 AM San Diego International Airport
13h27
4:19 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

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FAQs: San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA by flight. 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 flight, 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.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA can start from as little as $113 (€92) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA is $389 (€316) ; 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 plane from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA is 1h 3m to travel the 118 miles (191 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA leaves at 12:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
Flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA generally leave from San Diego International Airport and arrive in Los Angeles International Airport.San Diego International Airport is 2 miles (4 km) away from San Diego, CA city centre and Los Angeles International Airport is 1 miles (2 km) from Santa Monica, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Diego, CA and Santa Monica, CA including taking a bus, flight, and train.
Since neither San Diego, CA nor Santa Monica, 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.
There is no time difference between San Diego, CA and Santa Monica, CA.
The best events to attend in Santa Monica, CA include:
  • Santa Monica Pier Twilight Concerts, a series of free outdoor concerts featuring diverse musical acts on the iconic pier
  • Santa Monica Farmers Market, a vibrant weekly market showcasing local produce, artisanal goods, and live entertainment
  • Santa Monica Film Festival, an annual celebration of independent films with screenings, panels, and networking opportunities.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Santa Monica, CA are:
  • Santa Monica Pier, an iconic landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and scenic views of the Pacific Ocean
  • Third Street Promenade, a bustling pedestrian street known for shopping, dining, and street performances
  • Santa Monica State Beach, a popular beach offering sunbathing, swimming, and beach volleyball
  • Palisades Park, a picturesque park with walking paths, ocean views, and public art installations
  • Tongva Park, a modern urban park with unique landscaping, play areas, and art installations.
The best things to do in Santa Monica, CA include:
  • Pacific Park, a family-friendly amusement park located on the Santa Monica Pier with rides and games
  • Santa Monica Farmers Market, a vibrant market offering fresh produce, local goods, and live music
  • Heal the Bay Aquarium, an educational marine center located under the Santa Monica Pier
  • Bike along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, a scenic coastal path perfect for cycling enthusiasts
  • Enjoy a sunset yoga session on Santa Monica Beach, offering a serene experience with ocean views.
The best holidays to experience in Santa Monica, CA include:
  • Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer with vibrant beach activities and events
  • Independence Day, spectacular fireworks over the ocean and festive celebrations
  • Labor Day, a lively atmosphere with warm weather perfect for beach outings.
The best season to visit Santa Monica, CA is Spring or Summer. The best weather to explore Santa Monica, CA is during May-October.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
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 airports

Popular airports from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA

San Diego
Santa Monica
Amenities at airport
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
carConnection
Car connection
I-5, exit Sassafras St
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Shops in terminals 1 and 2, including Duty-Free and Hudson News.
Parking
Parking
  • Parking available, price varies.
Dining
Dining
  • Restaurants in terminals 1 and 2, including fast food and sit-down options like The Counter and Phil's BBQ
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotels nearby, Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Mari within walking distance.
Shower
Shower
  • Showers available at the Airspace Lounge, access fee required.
Lounge
Lounge
  • Lounges available, including United Club and Airspace Lounge.
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Lost and Found located in terminal 2 East, baggage claim area.
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Car rental services available at Rental Car Center, free shuttle from terminals
Public transit options for San Diego International Airport
  • Bus Route 992, Airport Station, 4.8 km
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)Accessibility
Amenities at airport
AccessibilityAccessibility
information
phone
Phone Number
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible

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