Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA Flights

Fri, Nov 07
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Vueling Airlines
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Ryanair
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1,000+ travel companies
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easyJet
Ryanair
KM Malta Airlines
Transavia France
1,000+ travel companies
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Journey information

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

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Flights from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA depart on average 27 times per day, taking around 8h 24m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $67 (€54) but you can travel from only $23 (€18) by bus.

The earliest flight runs at 00:45, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 3h 40m. November 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
8h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
$67 (€54)
Flights per day
27
Fastest flight
3h 40m
Cheapest month to travel
November
First flight
00:45
Last flight
23:55
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 Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA

Showing times and prices for Nov 08

Cheapest price

$191

Average price

$197

Fastest journey

6 h 16 m

Average duration

8 h 44 m

Flights per day

2

Distance

191 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA will cost around $197 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $191.

Fast flights

Of the 2 flights that leave Santa Monica, CA for San Diego, CA onSat, Nov 08, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Nov 08 the direct flights cover the 191 km distance in an average of 8 h 44 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 6 h 16 m .

On Sat, Nov 08 the longest flights will take 11 h 11 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.

Spirit Airlines
01:45PM11h11
Santa Monica, CA
12:56AMSan Diego, CA
$1911One-way
0 transfers
Spirit Airlines
11:50PM6h16
Santa Monica, CA
06:06AMSan Diego, CA
$2031One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €18. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €18, and a flight costs an average of €54.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus

€151

Average price

€23

Average price

Cheapest

11h 24m

Average total duration

8h 24m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

Direct Options

Direct Options

Live departures

Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA flights for today, Friday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at 1:12 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
unitedUA560 · UA21772:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
6h45
8:45 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA560 · UA14832:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
4h41
6:41 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2012 · UA21772:00 PM Ontario International Airport
6h45
8:45 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2012 · UA14832:00 PM Ontario International Airport
4h41
6:41 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1989 · AA19502:10 PM Los Angeles International Airport
9h09
11:19 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1989 · AA33082:10 PM Los Angeles International Airport
5h50
8:00 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1989 · AA32912:10 PM Los Angeles International Airport
12h14
2:24 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA488 · UA21773:15 PM Burbank
5h30
8:45 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA336 · UA21773:20 PM John Wayne Airport
5h25
8:45 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5537 · UA5248 · UA23914:15 PM Los Angeles International Airport
6h40
10:55 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA5410 · UA5899 · UA23914:15 PM Los Angeles International Airport
6h40
10:55 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA2228 · AA32914:32 PM Los Angeles International Airport
9h52
2:24 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2228 · AA19504:32 PM Los Angeles International Airport
6h47
11:19 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1191 · UA5475:06 PM Burbank
8h23
1:29 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1191 · UA13025:06 PM Burbank
5h54
11:00 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA46435:17 PM Los Angeles International Airport
1h04
6:21 PM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA3291+envoy_airAA34415:29 PM Burbank
8h55
2:24 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1950+envoy_airAA34415:29 PM Burbank
5h50
11:19 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5805 · UA23915:45 PM John Wayne Airport
5h10
10:55 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2239 · AA19506:02 PM Los Angeles International Airport
5h17
11:19 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2239 · AA32916:02 PM Los Angeles International Airport
8h22
2:24 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA4762 · UA23916:15 PM Burbank
4h40
10:55 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1791 · UA23916:26 PM Los Angeles International Airport
4h29
10:55 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5299 · UA5974 · UA14346:35 PM Los Angeles International Airport
7h59
2:34 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA5299 · UA5974 · UA17996:35 PM Los Angeles International Airport
10h13
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA5373 · UA14348:35 PM John Wayne Airport
5h59
2:34 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA788 · UA5409:10 PM Burbank
7h44
4:54 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA6510+american_airlinesAA32919:11 PM Burbank
5h13
2:24 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2987 · AA32919:11 PM Los Angeles International Airport
5h13
2:24 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1346 · UA14349:34 PM Los Angeles International Airport
5h00
2:34 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1708 · UA14349:40 PM Ontario International Airport
4h54
2:34 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1453 · UA179910:02 PM Burbank
6h46
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1453 · UA143410:02 PM Burbank
4h32
2:34 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA6004 · UA143410:35 PM John Wayne Airport
3h59
2:34 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA6004 · UA179910:35 PM John Wayne Airport
6h13
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5504 · UA179911:40 PM Burbank
5h08
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
Saturday, November 8
unitedUA5715 · UA179912:05 AM John Wayne Airport
4h43
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2019 · UA179912:10 AM Los Angeles International Airport
4h38
4:48 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5591 · UA5349 · UA286112:35 AM Los Angeles International Airport
7h38
8:13 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare bus 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.

Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13
Fri
Nov 14

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

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

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA can start from as little as $38 (€31) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is $219 (€178); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The flight time between Santa Monica, CA and San Diego, CA is on average 3 h 11 min   for the 118 mile (190 km) long journey, but the time it takes to go to San Diego, CA from Santa Monica, CA by flight can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12: 40AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest flight from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11: 55PM.
The cheapest month for a flight from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Santa Monica, CA and San Diego, CA including taking a bus or flight.
Since neither Santa Monica, CA nor San Diego, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of USA and USA. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
The best events to attend in San Diego, CA include:
  • Comic-Con International, the largest comic book and popular arts convention in the world
  • San Diego County Fair, a month-long fair featuring rides, games, and local food
  • San Diego Beer Week, a celebration of craft beer with tastings and events across the county
  • La Jolla Music Festival, an annual event showcasing classical music performances in a picturesque coastal setting.
The best holidays to experience in San Diego, CA include:
  • Memorial Day, ideal weather for beach activities and outdoor events
  • Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and patriotic celebrations
  • Labor Day, perfect for enjoying the last days of summer at the beach
  • Thanksgiving, a time for family gatherings with pleasant fall weather.
The best seasons to visit San Diego, CA are Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Diego, CA is during April-June or September-November.
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.

popular airports

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

Santa Monica
San Diego
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

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

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HomeFlightsFlights in USAFlight Schedules to San Diego, CASanta Monica, CA to San Diego, CA Flights

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