Santa Monica, CA, known for its iconic pier and vibrant beach culture, offers a quintessential Southern California experience. Just a short drive away, Anaheim, CA, is home to Disneyland and a bustling convention center.
Traveling between these two cities is common for both tourists and business travelers. Whether you're seeking a beach day or a magical adventure, the journey is part of the fun.
Let's explore the various transportation options available for this trip.
5 Ways to go from Santa Monica, CA to Anaheim, CA
1. Shuttle Service
Shuttle Service offers a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel from Santa Monica, CA to Anaheim, CA. This shared transportation option is ideal for those looking for a cost-effective and reliable means of travel without the hassle of driving.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Factors such as traffic, time of day, and the number of stops can affect the duration. Opting for express services can reduce travel time.
- Cost: Prices generally range from $20 to $40 per person. Costs can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and service tiers. Booking early or during off-peak times can help you find more budget-friendly options.
- Booking process: You can easily find and book Shuttle Service through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We make the booking process straightforward and user-friendly.
- Pros: Shuttle Service is cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and eliminates the stress of driving. It also offers the convenience of door-to-door service, making it a hassle-free option for travelers.
Shuttle Service is best for budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer not to drive. For a smooth trip, consider booking in advance and traveling during off-peak hours.
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Luxury Car Service offers a private, high-end transportation option for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. This service provides a seamless travel experience with professional chauffeurs and premium vehicles, ensuring a stress-free journey from Santa Monica to Anaheim.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. Peak hours and roadworks can extend travel time, but the service aims to provide the fastest route available.
- Cost: Prices generally range from $150 to $300, influenced by factors such as peak hours, vehicle type, and advance booking. Booking in advance can help secure better rates and availability.
- Booking process: You can easily find and book Luxury Car Service through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We offer a user-friendly platform to compare options and make reservations.
- Pros: Luxury Car Service offers unparalleled comfort, privacy, and convenience. With door-to-door service, you avoid the hassle of public transportation and enjoy a personalized travel experience. Professional chauffeurs ensure a smooth and safe journey.
This service is ideal for business travelers, families, or anyone seeking a premium travel experience. For the best experience, consider booking in advance and during off-peak hours.
3. Private Driver
Private Driver is a premium transportation service offering a private, comfortable, and convenient way to travel. It provides a personalized experience, ensuring you travel in style and comfort without the hassle of shared rides or public transport.
- Travel time: The journey from Santa Monica to Anaheim typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours. Travel time can vary due to traffic conditions, especially during peak hours. Opting for a Private Driver can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
- Cost: Prices for a Private Driver service range from $100 to $200, depending on factors like peak hours, vehicle type, and advance booking. Booking in advance can often secure better rates and availability.
- Booking process: You can easily find and book Private Driver services through Mozio. Be sure to book 12 hours in advance for the best experience possible. We make the booking process straightforward and user-friendly.
- Pros: Choosing a Private Driver offers several benefits, including door-to-door service, flexibility in scheduling, and a comfortable, stress-free ride. It’s an excellent option for those who value privacy and convenience.
Private Driver is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, privacy, and convenience. For the best experience, consider booking in advance and planning your trip around non-peak hours.
4. Public Transportation
Public transportation is a shared, budget-friendly option that involves using buses, trains, or other transit systems to travel. It operates on fixed routes and schedules, making it an economical choice for many travelers.
- Travel time: The journey from Santa Monica to Anaheim typically takes around 2 to 3 hours. Factors such as traffic, layovers, and schedule frequency can affect this duration. Opting for express services can reduce travel time.
- Cost: The cost ranges from $10 to $20, depending on the service and time of day. Peak hours may have higher prices, while off-peak times and advance bookings can offer discounts.
- Booking process: Travelers can book tickets online, through mobile apps, by phone, or in person at transit stations. It is advisable to book at least a day in advance, especially during peak travel times.
- Pros and cons: Public transportation is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. However, it may involve longer travel times and less flexibility compared to driving. The fixed schedules can be a drawback for those needing more convenience.
Public transportation is ideal for budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer not to drive. For a smoother experience, check schedules and book tickets in advance.
5. Uber/Rideshare
Uber and other rideshare services offer a convenient way to travel from Santa Monica, CA to Anaheim, CA. These services provide private, shared, and luxury ride options, catering to various budgets and preferences. Booking is typically done through a mobile app, making it easy and accessible.
- Travel time: The journey from Santa Monica to Anaheim usually takes around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Factors like traffic congestion, time of day, and route taken can significantly impact travel duration. Opting for express routes can sometimes reduce travel time.
- Cost: The cost for an Uber ride can range from $50 to $150, depending on factors such as peak hours, service tier (UberX, UberXL, Uber Black), and advance booking. Discounts and promotions may be available, especially for first-time users or during off-peak hours.
- Booking process: Travelers can book a ride through the Uber app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices. While advance reservations are not mandatory, booking 15-30 minutes ahead is recommended during peak times to ensure availability.
- Pros and cons: The main benefits of using Uber include convenience, door-to-door service, and multiple ride options. However, drawbacks include potential surge pricing during peak hours and variability in driver quality. Compared to public transport, Uber offers more comfort but at a higher cost.
Uber/Rideshare is ideal for travelers seeking convenience and flexibility. For a smoother experience, consider booking during non-peak hours and checking for available discounts.
Distance between Santa Monica, CA and Anaheim, CA
The distance between Santa Monica, CA, and Anaheim, CA, is approximately 40 miles (64 kilometers). Notable landmarks along the route include the iconic Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and the bustling cityscape of downtown Los Angeles.

Travel time between Santa Monica, CA and Anaheim, CA
- Shuttle Service: Typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Travel time can vary based on the number of stops and traffic conditions.
- Luxury Car Service: Usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This option offers a more direct route, but traffic can still impact the duration.
- Private Driver: Generally takes 1 to 1.5 hours. The time can fluctuate depending on traffic and the driver's familiarity with alternative routes.
- Public Transportation: Can take 2.5 to 3 hours. This includes transfers and waiting times, making it the longest option.
- Uber/Rideshare: Typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours. Travel time is subject to traffic and surge pricing periods.
Cost of transportation between Santa Monica, CA and Anaheim, CA
- Shuttle Service: Costs range from $25 to $40 per person. Prices can vary based on the time of day and the number of passengers. Booking in advance can often secure lower rates.
- Luxury Car Service: Expect to pay between $150 and $250. Factors like vehicle type and additional amenities can influence the price. Consider traveling during off-peak hours for potential savings.
- Private Driver: Typically costs between $100 and $200. Prices are generally fixed, but booking in advance can sometimes offer discounts. All drivers maintain a high standard of service.
- Public Transportation: The most economical option, costing around $10 to $15. Prices depend on the specific routes and transfers. Using discount programs or travel cards can further reduce costs.
- Uber/Rideshare: Prices range from $50 to $100, depending on demand and traffic conditions. Traveling during non-peak hours and using promotional codes can help lower the fare.
Why traveling with Mozio is best!
- Cancel for free within 24 hours, giving you the flexibility to change your plans without any hassle.
- Enjoy 24/7 customer support, a feature not commonly available with other services like Uber.
- Travel with confidence knowing Mozio partners only with licensed providers, ensuring top-notch service and security.
- Benefit from instantly guaranteed bookings, eliminating any concerns about efficiency.
- Rest easy knowing that if your flight is delayed, your driver will wait for you, adding an extra layer of reliability.
Tips for traveling between Santa Monica, CA and Anaheim, CA
- Choosing the best method: Consider your budget, time constraints, and comfort preferences. Shuttle services are cost-effective, while luxury car services offer comfort. Public transportation is the cheapest but may take longer.
- Time-saving strategies: Travel during off-peak hours to avoid traffic. Early mornings and late evenings are usually less congested, making your journey quicker.
- Cost-saving tips: Book in advance and compare prices on platforms like Mozio. Group travel can reduce costs per person, especially with private drivers or rideshares.
- Packing advice: Pack light if using public transportation or rideshares to make your journey more comfortable. For luxury services, you can afford to carry more luggage.
- Best times to travel: Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. Avoid traveling during major events or holidays to minimize delays.
- Local insights: Check for any local events or roadworks that might affect your travel time. Locals often use apps like Waze for real-time traffic updates.
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For Travelers
Mozio simplifies ground transportation for travelers by offering a one-stop platform to book taxis, shuttles, private cars, and public transit. This convenience means you can easily arrange your ride from the airport to your hotel or explore the city without the hassle of multiple bookings.
One of Mozio's standout features is its extensive coverage, allowing you to book transportation in thousands of destinations worldwide. Whether you're heading to a bustling metropolis or a serene countryside, Mozio ensures you have reliable options at competitive prices, making your travel experience seamless and stress-free.
For Travel Agent
For travel agents, Mozio offers a streamlined platform to book a variety of ground transportation options, from sedans to water taxis. This service is not only free but also allows agents to earn extra commissions on transfer bookings. With Mozio, travel agents can easily manage bookings, track rides, and handle cancellations, ensuring a smooth experience for their clients.
One of the standout benefits for travel agents is Mozio's extensive global coverage, which spans 180 countries and includes thousands of destinations. Whether your clients are traveling to a bustling city or a remote location, Mozio provides reliable transportation options. This comprehensive service allows travel agents to enhance their offerings and provide a seamless travel experience for their clients.