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

Thu, Apr 02
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Journey information

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

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Icon of flight

Flights from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA depart on average 32 times per day, taking around 5h 41m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $116 (€94) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by bus.

There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:59, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 55m. May 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 (€19)
Distance
118 miles (191 km)
Average flight duration
5h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
$116 (€94)
Flights per day
32
Direct flights
1
Fastest flight
55m
Cheapest month
May
First flight
12:59 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 $23 (€19)

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

Showing times and prices for Apr 03

Cheapest price

$510

Average price

$790

Fastest journey

58 m

Average duration

2 h 9 m

Flights per day

66

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 $790 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $510.

Fast flights

Of the 66 flights that leave Santa Monica, CA for San Diego, CA onFri, Apr 03, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Apr 03 the direct flights cover the 191 km distance in an average of 2 h 9 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 58 m .

On Fri, Apr 03 the longest flights will take 3 h 54 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 AirlinesAA2785 · AA1808 · AA3049
    7:41 PM16h22
    Los Angeles International Airport
    12:03 PMSan Diego International Airport
    $5101One-way
    2 transfers
  • American AirlinesAA1889 · AA1541 · AA2382
    9:17 AM12h22
    Los Angeles International Airport
    9:39 PMSan Diego International Airport
    $5101One-way
    2 transfers
  • American AirlinesAA1889 · AA440 · AA3121
    9:17 AM8h47
    Los Angeles International Airport
    6:04 PMSan Diego International Airport
    $5881One-way
    2 transfers
  • American AirlinesAA1889 · AA440 · AA1950
    9:17 AM6h43
    Los Angeles International Airport
    4:00 PMSan Diego International Airport
    $5881One-way
    2 transfers
  • UnitedUA1730
    7:14 PM0h58
    Los Angeles International Airport
    8:12 PMSan Diego International Airport
    $5901One-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 $23. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 2h 56m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $23, and a flight costs an average of $116.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus

$357

Average price

$33

Average price

Cheapest

8h 41m

Average total duration

5h 41m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 56m

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
unitedUA2363 · UA4441:00 PM Ontario International Airport
3h54
4:54 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5825 · UA55101:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
6h16
7:16 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5825 · UA4441:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
3h54
4:54 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2363 · UA21771:00 PM Ontario International Airport
5h55
6:55 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1989 · AA30491:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
6h03
7:03 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2363 · UA55101:00 PM Ontario International Airport
6h16
7:16 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1989 · AA31211:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
12h04
1:04 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA1989 · AA19501:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
10h00
11:00 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA694 · UA55102:15 PM John Wayne Airport
5h01
7:16 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1372 · UA21772:15 PM Los Angeles International Airport
4h40
6:55 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA488 · UA21772:15 PM Burbank
4h40
6:55 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA488 · UA55102:15 PM Burbank
5h01
7:16 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1372 · UA55102:15 PM Los Angeles International Airport
5h01
7:16 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1191 · UA13024:00 PM Burbank
5h57
9:57 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA6459 · AA6431+american_airlinesAA23824:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
12h39
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
skywest_airlinesAA6459 · AA6431+american_airlinesAA31214:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
9h04
1:04 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
skywest_airlinesAA6459 · AA6499+american_airlinesAA31214:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
9h04
1:04 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1191 · UA12814:00 PM Burbank
8h16
12:16 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA6459+american_airlinesAA1950+envoy_airAA40494:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
7h00
11:00 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
skywest_airlinesAA6459+american_airlinesAA2382+envoy_airAA40494:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
12h39
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
skywest_airlinesAA6459+american_airlinesAA3121+envoy_airAA40494:00 PM Los Angeles International Airport
9h04
1:04 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA1889 · AA440 · AA23824:17 PM Los Angeles International Airport
12h22
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA46434:17 PM Los Angeles International Airport
1h03
5:20 PM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA1889 · AA440 · AA31214:17 PM Los Angeles International Airport
8h47
1:04 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA1889 · AA440 · AA19504:17 PM Los Angeles International Airport
6h43
11:00 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA1889 · AA1541 · AA23824:17 PM Los Angeles International Airport
12h22
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
skywest_airlinesAA4988+american_airlinesAA31215:02 PM Burbank
8h02
1:04 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA4988+american_airlinesAA23825:02 PM Burbank
11h37
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA4988+american_airlinesAA19505:02 PM Burbank
5h58
11:00 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2073 · AA19505:19 PM Los Angeles International Airport
5h41
11:00 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2073 · AA23825:19 PM Los Angeles International Airport
11h20
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2073 · AA31215:19 PM Los Angeles International Airport
7h45
1:04 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2248 · UA16686:05 PM Ontario International Airport
4h34
10:39 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2386 · UA16686:05 PM Burbank
4h34
10:39 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5805 · UA55086:08 PM John Wayne Airport
9h25
3:33 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5805 · UA16686:08 PM John Wayne Airport
4h31
10:39 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2740 · UA16686:43 PM Los Angeles International Airport
3h56
10:39 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2789 · AA23827:59 PM Los Angeles International Airport
8h40
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2789 · AA31217:59 PM Los Angeles International Airport
5h05
1:04 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA3121+envoy_airAA40588:04 PM Burbank
5h00
1:04 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2382+envoy_airAA40588:04 PM Burbank
8h35
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2187 · UA5408:05 PM Burbank
8h17
4:22 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA469 · UA55088:20 PM Los Angeles International Airport
7h13
3:33 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2388 · AA1541 · AA23828:20 PM Los Angeles International Airport
8h19
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1375 · UA13368:27 PM Ontario International Airport
5h11
1:38 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1375 · UA55088:27 PM Ontario International Airport
7h06
3:33 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1453 · UA55089:00 PM Burbank
6h33
3:33 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1453 · UA13369:00 PM Burbank
4h38
1:38 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1383 · UA13369:38 PM John Wayne Airport
4h00
1:38 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1383 · UA55089:38 PM John Wayne Airport
5h55
3:33 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2019 · UA157710:40 PM Los Angeles International Airport
4h59
3:39 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2019 · UA550810:40 PM Los Angeles International Airport
4h53
3:33 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5893 · UA2097 · UA214211:10 PM Los Angeles International Airport
8h19
7:29 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1623 · UA5264 · UA186311:20 PM Los Angeles International Airport
6h18
5:38 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA5351 · UA157711:24 PM John Wayne Airport
4h15
3:39 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5351 · UA550811:24 PM John Wayne Airport
4h09
3:33 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2742 · AA238211:42 PM Los Angeles International Airport
4h57
4:39 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
Friday, April 3
unitedUA1508 · UA186312:48 AM Burbank
4h50
5:38 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA4903 · AA4933+american_airlinesAA30491:07 AM Los Angeles International Airport
17h56
7:03 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
sun_country_airlinesSY428 · SY16391:14 AM Los Angeles International Airport
17h38
6:52 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2657 · UA18631:39 AM John Wayne Airport
3h59
5:38 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
skywest_airlinesAA6399+american_airlinesAA22471:50 AM Burbank
14h03
3:53 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA17302:14 AM Los Angeles International Airport
0h58
3:12 AM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA2908 · AA22472:35 AM Los Angeles International Airport
13h18
3:53 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA2785 · AA1808 · AA30492:41 AM Los Angeles International Airport
16h22
7:03 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
american_airlinesAA2685 · AA22473:35 AM Los Angeles International Airport
12h18
3:53 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer

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.

Fri
Apr 03
Sat
Apr 04
Sun
Apr 05
Mon
Apr 06
Tue
Apr 07
Wed
Apr 08
Thu
Apr 09

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 $116 (€94) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is $357 (€290) ; 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 Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is 55m 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 Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:59 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 11:55 PM.
Flights from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA generally leave from Los Angeles International Airport and arrive in San Diego International Airport.Los Angeles International Airport is 1 miles (2 km) away from Santa Monica, CA city centre and San Diego International Airport is 2 miles (4 km) from San Diego, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is May.
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 and flight.
Since neither Santa Monica, CA nor San Diego, 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 Santa Monica, CA and San Diego, CA.
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.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Diego, CA are:
  • Balboa Park, a sprawling urban park with museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo
  • USS Midway Museum, a historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and tours
  • La Jolla Cove, a picturesque coastal area known for its stunning views and marine life
  • Gaslamp Quarter, a lively historic district with Victorian architecture, dining, and entertainment options
  • Coronado Beach, a beautiful sandy beach known for its gentle waves and iconic hotel.
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 things to do in San Diego, CA include:
  • Explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego
  • enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning views of the skyline and naval ships
  • hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve
  • visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life and ocean conservation
  • experience the thrill of a whale watching tour off the coast.
The best season to visit San Diego, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Diego, CA is during April-June or September-November.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, 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 San Diego, CA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like beaches, public transportation, and popular tourist spots such as the Gaslamp Quarter and Old Town. Common scams include overpriced parking fees and unauthorized ticket sellers near attractions. Staying aware of surroundings, securing belongings, and using official transportation services help reduce risks. Additionally, travelers should avoid isolated areas at night and be mindful of local traffic laws when using scooters or bikes.
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 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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