✈ Getting from LAX to Santa Monica

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the world’s fourth busiest airport, with multiple terminals and runways catering to over 87 million travelers annually. Navigating LAX to get to Santa Monica can potentially be complex, but it doesn’t have to be thanks to our handy guide!

To travel from LAX Airport to Santa Monica Pier, you have three main options: a local taxi, a private Los Angeles Airport transfer, or a combination of buses. The most convenient choice is to grab a Los Angeles Airport taxi on arrival, or to pre-book a private transfer. These offer a door-to-door service in around 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Otherwise, you can opt for public transportation which provides a much cheaper alternative. This route involves taking the airport shuttle and then transferring to a Big Blue Bus service, which takes about 1 hour in total, not including wait and transfer times.

*There currently isn’t a direct LAX to Santa Monica train service.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Los Angeles at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2 PASSENGERS

OPTION	PRICE	DURATION	AVAILABILITY
Taxi	€47.80	30min	24/7
Bus	€2.10	60min	05:04–22:53
Welcome Airport Transfer	€75	30min	24/7

How to get from LAX to Santa Monica by taxi

Taking a taxi from Los Angeles Airport to Santa Monica is one of the quickest and most convenient transport options. Los Angeles Airport taxis are available 24/7 and take around 30 minutes to reach Santa Monica, depending on traffic conditions.

Around ten different taxi companies are authorized to operate from LAX and they must bear an official seal issued by the City of Los Angeles Department of Transportation. There is no set color, but each vehicle will have a rooftop “TAXI” sign. Rates are based on a taximeter and a regular sedan taxi can seat up to four passengers.

How much is a taxi from LAX to Santa Monica?

Los Angeles taxis use a taximeter to calculate each fare, based on the time and distance traveled. On average, the LAX to Santa Monica taxi fare will be $50 (€47.80) for the 23 kilometer trip. This fare covers a standard vehicle accommodating up to 4 passengers and includes a $4 (€3.80) airport surcharge.

Cost

$50 (€47.80)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

*Prices may vary unless booked in advance.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Los Angeles (LAX) Airport and the LAX-it shuttle runs every 3-5 minutes.

Where do I get a taxi from?

There are nine main terminals at LAX, however, you can only get picked up by taxi at three locations:

LAX-it is the official pick-up zone for taxis, which is located outside the Arrivals Hall at Terminal 1. To reach it from other terminals, follow the green LAX-it signs on foot, or take the free shuttle bus from outside the Arrivals Hall of each terminal on the lower floor.
If you’re landing at Terminal 7 or 8, you may prefer to use the taxi stand at the far end of Terminal 7, just outside the Baggage Claim area.
Lastly, there is a taxi stand located between Terminal 3 and the Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B), inside Parking Structure 3.

Convenience

Los Angeles International Airport is comprised of nine terminals, which can be confusing and time-consuming to navigate, especially if you need to catch public transport. To avoid any hassle, you can opt for a taxi from one of the easy-to-locate taxi stands, or for greater convenience, you can pre-book a private LAX to Santa Monica car service. This option ensures a direct, efficient, and hassle-free journey to your destination, and a personalized door-to-door service.

Timetables

LAX-it Shuttle Stops

Editor’s Note

Taking a taxi is the best option for anyone who wants a comfortable ride but hasn't booked in advance.

Useful Tips

If possible, plan your journey during less congested hours to minimize travel time.

Taxis usually accept both card and cash payments at LAX. But for your peace of mind, you can check this with your driver before setting off.

Consider booking a taxi in advance to ensure a seamless transfer from LAX to Santa Monica.

LAX-it is pronounced "LA Exit." This is also the pick-up location for ride-hailing services.

How to get from Los Angeles Airport to Santa Monica by bus

If you’re traveling on a budget, it’s also possible to get from LAX to Santa Monica by bus. However, since there isn’t a direct bus, the journey requires first taking the LAX shuttle to the LAX City Bus Center, which takes about 10 minutes.

From there, you can transfer to the Big Blue Bus (BBB) Route 3 service towards Downtown Santa Monica, embarking on a 50-minute journey with 28 stops along the way. After arriving at the corner of 4th Street and Colorado Avenue, you can choose to complete your journey with a 10-minute walk to Santa Monica Pier.

In total, the journey will take around 1 hour without wait or transfer times.

How much is the bus from LAX to Santa Monica?

When you take the bus, you can get from LAX Airport to Santa Monica Pier for as little as $1.10 (€1.05) per person. Given the airport shuttle service is free, you only need to pay for a one-way ticket on the BBB LAX to Santa Monica shuttle. Tickets can be purchased by downloading the TAP app and then tapping your phone on the card reader on board.

Cost

$1.10 (€1.05)

Trip Duration

60 Min.

There is a wait time of up to 15 minutes for both the shuttle and Big Blue Bus.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

The LAX shuttle bus service doesn't operate from 02:00 to 04:00 daily. The Big Blue bus from LAX to Santa Monica is available from 05:04 to 22:53 on weekdays and 05:41 to 22:54 on weekends.

Where do I get the bus from?

You can catch the free airport shuttle bus from Los Angeles Airport at the designated bus stop, marked by a pink “LAX Shuttle” sign, located on the Lower/Arrivals Level in front of each terminal. The shuttle will take you to the LAX City Bus Center, where you can board the BBB to Santa Monica. Once there, head to Bay 1 and look for the “Big Blue Bus” signs.

Convenience

While the BBB service from LAX to Santa Monica is an economical option, it may not be the most convenient choice for some travelers. Despite the low cost, passengers should keep in mind that they will need to transfer from the airport to the bus terminal, which can be confusing and tiresome, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Additionally, the bus makes multiple stops along the way, extending the travel time considerably. While it’s a budget-friendly option, it’s essential to weigh in the convenience factor, especially if you’re traveling with children or if you’re just transiting for the day.

Timetables

E shuttle Bus

Airport Shuttle Information

Big Blue Bus - Route 3

Schedule & Timetable

Editor’s Note

Navigating from LAX to Santa Monica using the BBB bus may be cost-effective, but it requires a shuttle transfer from the airport to the bus stops, potentially posing challenges if you have heavy luggage or are running on a tight schedule.

Useful Tips

Confirm you’re boarding the correct bus by checking the route and direction displayed on the front and on the sides of the bus as it approaches.

Stay attentive to announcements for your stop and pull the cord approximately one block before your desired drop-off stop.

If you're paying by cash, the price is $1.25 (€1.20) and you need to have the exact fare.

Once you tap on, you can ride any BBB within a two-hour timeframe.

Children under the age of 5 years can ride the bus for free.

How to get from LAX to Santa Monica by private transfer

Los Angeles is a huge city, and for first-time visitors, using the public transport system can be a little daunting. That’s why we recommend arranging a fully customizable private transfer service with a trusted provider like Welcome Pickups. That way, you’ll receive a warm welcome on arrival and a direct and hassle-free ride straight to your destination.

Our English-speaking drivers are highly trained and would be all too happy to show off some of their city on the way to your hotel. They’ll also gladly share some of their best tips for enjoying Santa Monica and answer any questions you might have.

On top of that, you’ll receive a competitive fixed fare and around-the-clock support from our customer service team, including travel assistance to ensure your holiday gets off to a smooth and relaxing start.

How much is an LAX to Santa Monica transfer?

When you book a private transfer with Welcome, you can enjoy the benefit of a fixed fare rate inclusive of all tolls, surcharges, and extra costs that you can pay for in advance. Unlike a regular taxi, you won’t need to pay an airport surcharge fee, and if you happen to get stuck in crazy LA traffic, you don’t need to worry about the meter going up.

To get to the city center, you’ll pay $78.60 (€75) for three passengers in a stylish sedan, or $176 (€184.50) for up to 12 passengers in a minivan. Bookings can be made either online or via the Welcome Pickups app. The whole process takes just 60 seconds; simply enter your flight information, a few personal details, and a preferred pick-up time to receive your quote.

Cost

$78.60 (€75)

Trip Duration

30 Min.

*When booked in advance your vehicle will be waiting upon arrival.

Convenience

Safety

Value for Money

A private transfer can be arranged 24/7 from LAX.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Regardless of which terminal you land at, you won’t need to wander around LAX trying to find the taxi pick-up point. Instead, your driver will be waiting for you at the entrance to the Arrivals Hall, right after you’ve collected any luggage. After introducing themselves, they’ll help with your bags and show you to your pre-selected vehicle so your transfer to Santa Monica can begin.

Convenience

For almost the same price as a taxi, private transfers offer a fully customizable and personalized service that you can rely on at any time of day to get where you need to go. If after a long flight, you don’t fancy waiting in line or navigating public transport, a private transfer is the best transport option for ensuring a relaxing and comfortable journey.

Editor’s Note

Private transfers are the easiest way to upgrade your travel experience and are ideal for travelers with multiple bags who don't want to wait around.

Useful Tips

Any requests and customizations such as baby seats, minivans, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles should be made at the time of booking to ensure everything is arranged for your arrival.

At Welcome Pickups, we provide all our drivers with live updates on any changes to your flight time. This means that if your flight is delayed or arrives early, your driver will always be there to greet you when you land.

Our sedans can comfortably accomodate three people and a standard suitcase each.

Since it can take quite a while to get through Immigration at LAX, we suggest selecting a pickup time at least 45 minutes after your flight’s scheduled arrival time.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Los angeles. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

DAYTIME

€75.0

NIGHTTIME

€90.0

Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How far is Santa Monica from the airport?

If you’re wondering “how far is LAX to Santa Monica?,” the road distance is approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles). It takes an average of 30 minutes by taxi or a private transfer, traffic-dependent.

How to get to Santa Monica from LAX?

To cover the distance from Santa Monica to LAX and vice versa, you have three main transportation options. You can opt for a local metered taxi or a fixed fare price with a private transfer, both of which take roughly 30 minutes.

Or, you can choose the more budget-friendly option which combines the airport’s free shuttle bus with the Route 3 Big Blue Bus service to Santa Monica. This option takes up to 1 hour and involves a transfer, so be sure to check each bus schedule before planning your journey.

How much is a taxi from LAX to Santa Monica?

If you choose to take a taxi at LAX to get to Santa Monica, the cost will be approximately $50 (€47.80) for up to 4 passengers. Since Los Angeles taxis charge by the meter, your final fare will depend on your exact destination and traffic conditions.

For total peace of mind and the assurance of a set rate fee, consider booking your Los Angeles Airport transfer with Welcome Pickups.

How do I get from LAX to Santa Monica without a car?

If you don’t have a car, you can either take a local taxi from the stands at LAX Airport, or you can pre-book a private transfer. These options both take around 30 minutes to reach Santa Monica.

Otherwise, you can take a combination of buses, including a free airport shuttle bus, and you’ll reach Downtown Santa Monica in around 1 hour, not including wait and transfer times.

How much does an LAX shuttle cost?

If you want to cover the distance from LAX to Santa Monica by bus, you will need to take the free airport shuttle to the LAX City Bus Center, where you can transfer to the Big Blue Bus (BBB) toward Santa Monica. The BBB only costs $1.10 (€1.05) per person, making this journey very affordable.

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How to get from LAX to Santa Monica by taxi

How much is a taxi from LAX to Santa Monica?

$50 (€47.80)

30 Min.

Taxis are available 24/7 at Los Angeles (LAX) Airport and the LAX-it shuttle runs every 3-5 minutes.

Where do I get a taxi from?

Convenience

Timetables

LAX-it Shuttle Stops

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from Los Angeles Airport to Santa Monica by bus

How much is the bus from LAX to Santa Monica?

$1.10 (€1.05)

60 Min.

The LAX shuttle bus service doesn't operate from 02:00 to 04:00 daily. The Big Blue bus from LAX to Santa Monica is available from 05:04 to 22:53 on weekdays and 05:41 to 22:54 on weekends.

Where do I get the bus from?

Convenience

Timetables

E shuttle Bus

Airport Shuttle Information

Big Blue Bus - Route 3

Schedule & Timetable

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

How to get from LAX to Santa Monica by private transfer

How much is an LAX to Santa Monica transfer?

$78.60 (€75)

30 Min.

A private transfer can be arranged 24/7 from LAX.

Where will my private transfer depart from?

Convenience

Editor’s Note

Useful Tips

Welcome Pickups transfer

Best drivers

Flight monitoring

Quality support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Prices

DAYTIME

NIGHTTIME

Sedan Car

Frequently asked questions

How far is Santa Monica from the airport?

How to get to Santa Monica from LAX?

How much is a taxi from LAX to Santa Monica?

How do I get from LAX to Santa Monica without a car?

How much does an LAX shuttle cost?

The best way to arrive in Los Angeles

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