Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA train

Mon, May 18
+ Add return
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
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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 $24. 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 $24, and a flight costs an average of $117.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$34

Average price

Cheapest

$428

Average price

$36

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 38m

Average total duration

5h 38m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

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 $34 (€27).

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

A bus is $394 (€318) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA costing on average $428 (€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.

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.

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Take a train from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA and enjoy the approximately 118 miles (191 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.

The earliest train runs at 12:01, the last at 16:10.

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 $24 (€19)
Distance
118 miles (191 km)
First train
12:01 PM
Last train
4:10 PM
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Tue
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 $24 (€19)

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 historic naval aircraft carrier museum offering interactive exhibits and an extensive collection of restored aircraft.

  • Recommended

San Diego Museum of Art

Features works from Spanish and Italian old masters, South Asian paintings, and 19th-20th century American art.

  • Recommended

Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego

Showcases contemporary art in a stunning seaside location, offering a dynamic experience for visitors.

United States Dollar

San Diego is generally expensive, especially for dining and accommodation in tourist areas.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-15 for fast food or casual dining.
Mid-range
$25-40 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
$60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-5 for cappuccino or similar.

Tipping culture

15-20% in restaurants, round up fares for taxis, not expected in cafes.

FAQs: Trains from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA by train. 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 train, 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
The first train from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 12:01 PM.
The distance by train from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is 118 miles (191 km).
The last train from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA leaves at 4:10 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA.
The cheapest way to get from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€19).
Yes, the train journey from Santa Monica to San Diego is scenic, offering views of the Pacific Ocean, coastal cliffs, and charming beach towns along the route.
In San Diego, CA, you can explore the vibrant art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art, enjoy a harbor cruise for stunning skyline and naval ship views, and hike the scenic trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. Visit the Birch Aquarium to learn about marine life, or experience a whale watching tour off the coast. Don't miss Balboa Park, with its museums and the San Diego Zoo, the historic USS Midway Museum, picturesque La Jolla Cove, the lively Gaslamp Quarter, and the beautiful Coronado Beach.
Three to four days are ideal to explore San Diego's main attractions, including its beaches, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, and vibrant neighborhoods.
No, you cannot take the train from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA.
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.
Popular day trips by train from San Diego, CA include Irvine, CA, Santa Ana, CA, Oceanside, CA, Orange, CA, San Juan Capistrano, CA.
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.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 train stations

Popular train stations from Santa Monica, CA to San Diego, CA

Santa Monica
San Diego
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Monday - Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
6
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • Parking is available nearby with various public and private options.
Dining
Dining
  • The Fish Market
  • Karl Strauss Brewing Company
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • $1.25
Hotel
Hotel
  • The Westin San Diego
  • The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel
  • Embassy Suites by Hilton San Diego Bay Downtown
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Hertz
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms for Amtrak and Coaster trains
  • Hall 2: Trolley connections
Public transit options for Santa Fe Depot
  • San Diego Trolley: Blue Line, Green Line
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Amtrak: Pacific Surfliner

Most popular train connections from Santa Monica, CA

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to San Diego, CASanta Monica, CA to San Diego, CA train

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