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

Fri, Jul 03
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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 34 times per day, taking around 5h 38m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $114 (€94) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by bus.

There are 2 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 58m. 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 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$114 (€94)
Flights per day
34
Direct flights
2
Fastest flight
58m
First flight
5:05 AM
Last flight
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
42 days
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 Jul 03

Cheapest price

$344

Average price

$449

Fastest journey

58 m

Average duration

6 h 20 m

Flights per day

5

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 $449 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $344.

Fast flights

Of the 5 flights that leave Santa Monica, CA for San Diego, CA onFri, Jul 03, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jul 03 the direct flights cover the 191 km distance in an average of 6 h 20 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 58 m .

On Fri, Jul 03 the longest flights will take 16 h 17 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
    4:17 PM12h22
    Santa Monica, CA
    4:39 AMSan Diego, CA
    $3441One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    5:17 PM1h07
    Santa Monica, CA
    6:24 PMSan Diego, CA
    $4381One-way
    0 transfers
  • American Airlines
    2:40 AM16h17
    Santa Monica, CA
    6:57 PMSan Diego, CA
    $4601One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    1:50 AM0h58
    Santa Monica, CA
    2:48 AMSan Diego, CA
    $4881One-way
    0 transfers
  • United
    2:14 AM0h58
    Santa Monica, CA
    3:12 AMSan Diego, CA
    $5151One-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 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $23, and a flight costs an average of $114.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$419

Average price

$33

Average price

Cheapest

$35

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 38m

Average total duration

5h 38m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 10m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is a bus with an average price of $33 (€27).

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

A bus is $385 (€318) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $419 (€345).

The fastest way to travel from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus with an average journey time of 2h 50m.

Other travel options to San Diego, CA take longer:

Flight takes on average 5h 38m.

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.
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.

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
UnitedUA2446 · UA55075:00 AM Ontario International Airport
8h10
1:10 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2647 · UA4446:00 AM Los Angeles International Airport
3h59
9:59 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2363 · UA4446:00 AM Ontario International Airport
3h59
9:59 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2363 · UA55106:00 AM Ontario International Airport
5h02
11:02 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2027 · AA24776:19 AM Los Angeles International Airport
5h28
11:47 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA513 · UA55076:45 AM John Wayne Airport
6h25
1:10 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1604 · UA55107:00 AM John Wayne Airport
4h02
11:02 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA488 · UA55107:02 AM Burbank
4h00
11:02 AM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA488 · UA21777:02 AM Burbank
4h49
11:51 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1466 · AA2466+skywest airlinesAA64258:10 AM Los Angeles International Airport
10h08
6:18 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA3186 · AA559+skywest airlinesAA64258:10 AM Los Angeles International Airport
13h24
9:34 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5460 · UA4715 · UA12578:15 AM Los Angeles International Airport
5h53
2:08 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5460 · UA4715 · UA11478:15 AM Los Angeles International Airport
7h52
4:07 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1006 · UA1799 · UA55088:20 AM Los Angeles International Airport
12h07
8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1006 · UA574 · UA11478:20 AM Los Angeles International Airport
7h47
4:07 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA46439:00 AM Los Angeles International Airport
1h08
10:08 AM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
UnitedUA1191 · UA12819:08 AM Burbank
8h12
5:20 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1191 · UA13029:08 AM Burbank
5h47
2:55 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2470+envoy airAA39929:16 AM Burbank
6h10
3:26 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2466+envoy airAA39929:16 AM Burbank
9h02
6:18 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA559+envoy airAA39929:16 AM Burbank
12h18
9:34 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA5562 · UA12579:45 AM John Wayne Airport
4h23
2:08 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1668 · AA247010:00 AM Los Angeles International Airport
5h26
3:26 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1668 · AA246610:00 AM Los Angeles International Airport
8h18
6:18 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2466+skywest airlinesAA6376 · AA493510:28 AM Los Angeles International Airport
7h50
6:18 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA1378 · AA559+skywest airlinesAA637610:28 AM Los Angeles International Airport
11h06
9:34 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA559+skywest airlinesAA6376 · AA636810:28 AM Los Angeles International Airport
11h06
9:34 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2466+skywest airlinesAA6373 · AA637610:28 AM Los Angeles International Airport
7h50
6:18 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA2039 · AA3186 · AA55912:26 PM Los Angeles International Airport
9h08
9:34 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2187 · UA552912:48 PM Burbank
8h05
8:53 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2187 · UA54012:48 PM Burbank
7h58
8:46 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2132 · UA55291:08 PM John Wayne Airport
7h45
8:53 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1994 · AA24661:10 PM Los Angeles International Airport
5h08
6:18 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1994 · AA5591:10 PM Los Angeles International Airport
8h24
9:34 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2741 · UA1603 · UA21421:12 PM Los Angeles International Airport
11h19
12:31 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2741 · UA1603 · UA18631:12 PM Los Angeles International Airport
9h37
10:49 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA2741 · UA2841 · UA21421:12 PM Los Angeles International Airport
11h19
12:31 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA1263 · UA55291:18 PM Ontario International Airport
7h35
8:53 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1453 · UA55081:45 PM Burbank
6h42
8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1375 · UA55081:50 PM Ontario International Airport
6h37
8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2823 · UA55082:47 PM John Wayne Airport
5h40
8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA1378 · AA559+skywest airlinesAA63723:39 PM Los Angeles International Airport
5h55
9:34 PM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
UnitedUA5351 · UA55084:12 PM John Wayne Airport
4h15
8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA357 · UA55084:13 PM Burbank
4h14
8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA357 · UA13434:13 PM Burbank
4h40
8:53 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA2019 · UA55084:14 PM Los Angeles International Airport
4h13
8:27 PM McClellan–Palomar Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2032 · AA5594:39 PM Los Angeles International Airport
4h55
9:34 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
skywest airlinesAA6415+American AirlinesAA5594:42 PM Burbank
4h52
9:34 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2567+Alaska AirlinesAA74215:52 PM Los Angeles International Airport
13h52
7:44 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2461+skywest airlinesAA49446:38 PM Burbank
14h13
8:51 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA1508 · UA18636:42 PM Burbank
4h07
10:49 PM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
UnitedUA54156:50 PM Los Angeles International Airport
1h01
7:51 PM San Diego International Airport0 transfersDirect
Friday, July 3
United1:50 AM Santa Monica, CA
0h58
2:48 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
United2:14 AM Santa Monica, CA
0h58
3:12 AM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Thursday, July 2
American AirlinesAA2622 · AA2461+skywest airlinesAA63157:25 PM Los Angeles International Airport
13h26
8:51 AM San Diego International Airport2 transfers
American AirlinesAA1362 · AA24617:32 PM Los Angeles International Airport
13h19
8:51 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
Friday, July 3
American Airlines2:40 AM Santa Monica, CA
16h17
6:57 PM San Diego, CA0 transfersDirect
Thursday, July 2
UnitedUA1195 · UA21428:10 PM Los Angeles International Airport
4h21
12:31 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
skywest airlinesAA6260+Alaska AirlinesAA93068:38 PM Los Angeles International Airport
12h57
9:35 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAA7421+skywest airlinesAA62608:38 PM Los Angeles International Airport
11h06
7:44 AM San Diego International Airport1 transfer
American AirlinesAA2293 · AA24618:41 PM Los Angeles International Airport
12h10
8:51 AM 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
Jul 03
Sat
Jul 04
Sun
Jul 05
Mon
Jul 06
Tue
Jul 07
Wed
Jul 08
Thu
Jul 09

Complete guide to San Diego

Things to do in San Diego

Discover the best of San Diego — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Diego trip today.

  • Must visit

USS Midway Museum

A large aircraft carrier museum on the waterfront with restored aircraft, flight deck exhibits, and naval history. One of the city's most visited cultural attractions.

  • Recommended

San Diego Museum of Art

Balboa Park's flagship art museum, known for European old masters, South Asian art, and major rotating exhibitions in a landmark Spanish Colonial building.

  • Recommended

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Contemporary art museum with a major La Jolla campus and strong collection of postwar and current works, plus ocean-view architecture and installations.

United States Dollar

San Diego is pricey by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining near beaches and downtown.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for tacos, fast food, or casual takeout.
Mid-range
USD 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
USD 4-7 for a latte or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5.

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 $114 (€94) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is $419 (€345) ; 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 58m 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 5:05 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.
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 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 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 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 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

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

Departure airports in Santa Monica
Arrival airports in San Diego

Which San Diego, CA airport do flights from Santa Monica, CA arrive at?

Flights from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA most often arrive at San Diego International Airport. Some flights land at McClellan-Palomar Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your San Diego, CA arrival airport.
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 Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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

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