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

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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 36 times per day, taking around 5h 45m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $125 (€103) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.

There are 2 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 1h 2m. 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 $22 (€18)
Distance
118 miles (191 km)
Average flight duration
5h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$125 (€103)
Flights per day
36
Direct flights
2
Fastest flight
1h 2m
First flight
5:00 AM
Last flight
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $22 (€18)

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

Showing times and prices for Jul 04

Cheapest price

$164

Average price

$371

Fastest journey

1 h 4 m

Average duration

3 h 40 m

Flights per day

7

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 $371 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $164.

Fast flights

Of the 7 flights that leave San Diego, CA for Santa Monica, CA onSat, Jul 04, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Jul 04 the direct flights cover the 191 km distance in an average of 3 h 40 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 4 m .

On Sat, Jul 04 the longest flights will take 13 h 50 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
    3:30 AM13h50
    San Diego, CA
    5:20 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $1641One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    6:03 PM1h10
    San Diego, CA
    7:13 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $2461One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    1:15 PM1h04
    San Diego, CA
    2:19 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $3101One-way
    0 transfers
  • American Airlines
    11:32 PM16h04
    San Diego, CA
    3:36 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $4351One-way
    0 transfers
  • American Airlines
    11:55 PM15h33
    San Diego, CA
    3:28 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $4391One-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 $22. 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 $22, and a flight costs an average of $125.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$400

Average price

$32

Average price

Cheapest

$49

Average price

$35

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 45m

Average total duration

5h 45m

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*

2h 21m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).

This is compared to other travel options from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA:

A bus is $17 (€14) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA costing on average $49 (€40).

A bus is $368 (€304) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA costing on average $400 (€330).

The fastest way to travel from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 22m.

Other travel options to Santa Monica, CA take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 38m.

Flight takes on average 5h 45m.

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.
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.

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, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
American AirlinesAA625 · AA23686:20 AM San Diego International Airport
9h59
4:19 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA625 · AA28696:20 AM San Diego International Airport
5h46
12:06 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2830 · UA18966:20 AM San Diego International Airport
4h14
10:34 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA625 · AA2037 · AA20396:20 AM San Diego International Airport
9h34
3:54 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA625 · AA29306:20 AM San Diego International Airport
12h00
6:20 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA625+skywest airlinesAA64156:20 AM San Diego International Airport
9h51
4:11 PM Burbank1 transfer
American AirlinesAA625+skywest airlinesAA49446:20 AM San Diego International Airport
11h47
6:07 PM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA10066:20 AM San Diego International Airport
1h01
7:21 AM Los Angeles International Airport0 transfersDirect
American AirlinesAA625+skywest airlinesAA6367 · AA63766:20 AM San Diego International Airport
7h55
2:15 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA625 · AA2023+skywest airlinesAA49466:20 AM San Diego International Airport
13h03
7:23 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA625+skywest airlinesAA6369 · AA63766:20 AM San Diego International Airport
7h55
2:15 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2368 · UA21546:35 AM San Diego International Airport
6h13
12:48 PM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA2274 · UA21157:15 AM San Diego International Airport
4h34
11:49 AM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA6437:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h08
12:06 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA21157:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
3h51
11:49 AM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA5717:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
5h47
1:45 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA23677:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
3h59
11:57 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5519 · UA611 · UA21847:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
7h37
3:35 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5519 · UA26617:58 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h14
12:12 PM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5520 · UA17078:50 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h07
2:57 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5520 · UA26578:50 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h40
5:30 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1113 · UA5719:26 AM San Diego International Airport
4h19
1:45 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2461 · AA2023 · AA13999:41 AM San Diego International Airport
11h00
8:41 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2461 · AA32049:41 AM San Diego International Airport
12h26
10:07 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2461 · AA23689:41 AM San Diego International Airport
6h38
4:19 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2461 · AA29309:41 AM San Diego International Airport
8h39
6:20 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2461 · AA2023+skywest airlinesAA49469:41 AM San Diego International Airport
9h42
7:23 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2461+skywest airlinesAA49449:41 AM San Diego International Airport
8h26
6:07 PM Burbank1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2461+skywest airlinesAA64159:41 AM San Diego International Airport
6h30
4:11 PM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA538410:49 AM San Diego International Airport
1h09
11:58 AM Los Angeles International Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA2309 · UA62611:01 AM San Diego International Airport
4h16
3:17 PM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA2428 · UA5652 · UA575911:55 AM San Diego International Airport
7h37
7:32 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1565 · UA241112:33 PM San Diego International Airport
8h10
8:43 PM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA5515 · UA202812:42 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h01
8:43 PM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5515 · UA170412:42 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
7h58
8:40 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5515 · UA241112:42 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
8h01
8:43 PM Burbank1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2477 · AA236812:46 PM San Diego International Airport
3h33
4:19 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2477 · AA320412:46 PM San Diego International Airport
9h21
10:07 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2477+skywest airlinesAA494412:46 PM San Diego International Airport
5h21
6:07 PM Burbank1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2477+skywest airlinesAA641512:46 PM San Diego International Airport
3h25
4:11 PM Burbank1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2477 · AA293012:46 PM San Diego International Airport
5h34
6:20 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1763 · UA56131:39 PM San Diego International Airport
4h15
5:54 PM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1763 · UA5652 · UA57591:39 PM San Diego International Airport
5h53
7:32 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1763 · UA27641:39 PM San Diego International Airport
4h03
5:42 PM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA56501:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h28
6:22 PM John Wayne Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA1613 · UA59081:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h36
8:30 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5599 · UA5652 · UA57591:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
5h38
7:32 PM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5599 · UA27641:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
3h48
5:42 PM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA56131:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h00
5:54 PM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA13211:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
5h26
7:20 PM Burbank1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA14271:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
6h35
8:29 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5599 · UA17541:54 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport
4h11
6:05 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2117 · UA14274:09 PM San Diego International Airport
4h20
8:29 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2470 · AA32044:23 PM San Diego International Airport
5h44
10:07 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2470+skywest airlinesAA6370 · AA63934:23 PM San Diego International Airport
15h23
7:46 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2470 · AA2635+skywest airlinesAA63934:23 PM San Diego International Airport
15h23
7:46 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
Sun Country AirlinesSY408 · SY4215:42 PM San Diego International Airport
14h19
8:01 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1302 · UA28506:27 PM San Diego International Airport
4h10
10:37 PM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1302 · UA5526:27 PM San Diego International Airport
4h10
10:37 PM Ontario International Airport1 transfer
skywest airlinesAA6294+Alaska AirlinesAA93826:31 PM San Diego International Airport
13h10
7:41 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2466 · AA16687:15 PM San Diego International Airport
13h34
8:49 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2466 · AA2635+skywest airlinesAA63937:15 PM San Diego International Airport
12h31
7:46 AM Los Angeles International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2466+envoy airAA39927:15 PM San Diego International Airport
13h30
8:45 AM Burbank1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2466 · AA18927:15 PM San Diego International Airport
14h19
9:34 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
Friday, July 3
American Airlines3:30 AM San Diego, CA
13h50
5:20 PM Santa Monica, CA0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA56368:32 PM San Diego International Airport
1h13
9:45 PM Los Angeles International Airport0 transfersDirect
skywest airlinesAA6294+Alaska AirlinesAA93199:27 PM San Diego International Airport
10h14
7:41 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
skywest airlinesAA6428+Alaska AirlinesAA93199:27 PM San Diego International Airport
14h22
11:49 AM Los Angeles International Airport1 transfer
skywest airlinesAA6265+Alaska AirlinesAA94059:47 PM San Diego International Airport
10h54
8:41 AM 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

Compare bus, flight, and train 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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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 $125 (€103) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA is $400 (€330) ; 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 2m 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 5:00 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 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 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 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

Most San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA flights use the San Diego International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare San Diego, CA and Santa Monica, CA airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.

Departure airports in San Diego
Arrival airports in Santa Monica

Which San Diego, CA airport do flights to Santa Monica, CA leave from?

Flights from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA depart from San Diego International Airport. The airport is 2 miles (4 km) from San Diego, CA city centre at 3225 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USA.
San Diego International Airport (SAN)3225 N Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, USAWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelShowerLoungeLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to San Diego International Airport from San Diego city centre

San Diego International Airport is 4 km from San Diego city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus923, 992 · 12m · $6 · every ~10 min
923, 992 · 13m · $6 · every ~10 min

San Diego International Airport airport facilities and services

San Diego International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Restaurants in terminals 1 and 2, including fast food and sit-down options like The Counter and Phil's BBQ

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in all terminals.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at San Diego International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at San Diego International Airport: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at San Diego International Airport: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hotels nearby, Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Mari within walking distance..

McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD)2198 Palomar Airport Rd, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA+1 760-431-4646Accessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to McClellan-Palomar Airport from San Diego city centre

TrainPacific Surfliner · 2h 11m · $21 · every ~2 min
BusAmtrak Thruway Connecting Service · 2h 3m · $21
101 · 3h 3m · $28 · every ~4 min

McClellan-Palomar Airport airport facilities and services

McClellan-Palomar Airport has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at McClellan-Palomar Airport: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.

More options for your journey from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA

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