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

Mon, May 18
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Journey information

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

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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 $127 (€103) but you can travel from only $23 (€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 $23 (€18)
Distance
118 miles (191 km)
Average flight duration
5h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
$127 (€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 $23 (€18)

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

Showing times and prices for May 19

Cheapest price

$168

Average price

$346

Fastest journey

1 h 2 m

Average duration

4 h 22 m

Flights per day

4

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 $346 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $168.

Fast flights

Of the 4 flights that leave San Diego, CA for Santa Monica, CA onTue, May 19, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, May 19 the direct flights cover the 191 km distance in an average of 4 h 22 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 2 m .

On Tue, May 19 the longest flights will take 14 h 8 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
    2:11 AM14h08
    San Diego, CA
    4:19 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $1681One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    1:15 PM1h04
    San Diego, CA
    2:19 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $2461One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    2:15 PM1h13
    San Diego, CA
    3:28 PMSanta Monica, CA
    $4651One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    3:37 AM1h02
    San Diego, CA
    4:39 AMSanta Monica, CA
    $5061One-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 $23. 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 $23, and a flight costs an average of $127.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$409

Average price

$33

Average price

Cheapest

$50

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 $33 (€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 $50 (€40).

A bus is $376 (€304) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA costing on average $409 (€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 tomorrow, Monday, May 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
American Airlines2:11 AM San Diego, CA
14h08
4:19 PM Santa Monica, CA0 transfersDirect
United3:37 AM San Diego, CA
1h02
4:39 AM Santa Monica, CA0 transfersDirect
United1:15 PM San Diego, CA
1h04
2:19 PM Santa Monica, CA0 transfersDirect
United2:15 PM San Diego, CA
1h13
3:28 PM Santa Monica, CA0 transfersDirect

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.

Mon
May 18
Tue
May 19
Wed
May 20
Thu
May 21
Fri
May 22
Sat
May 23
Sun
May 24

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 $127 (€103) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Diego, CA to Santa Monica, CA is $409 (€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 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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