How to get from Los Angeles International to Santa Monica
Big Blue Bus Route 3 from LAX City Bus Center to Santa Monica — $1.25. Uber is $25–$45 depending on surge.
Best options
Compare your options — LAX → Santa Monica
Distance ~13 km, typical journey 20–60 min (traffic).
| Option | Typical fare | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Public transport | Free shuttle to LAX City Bus Center, then Big Blue Bus Route 3 / Rapid 3 to Santa Monica ($1.25). | Cheapest safe option |
| Official taxi | $45–$60 metered + $4 airport fee + tip | Late arrivals, heavy luggage |
| Ride-hailing | Uber, Lyft, Opoli — pickup only at LAX-it lot. Free shuttle from each terminal. | available |
After landing — step by step
- 1Clear baggage and exit to the lower (arrivals) curb
- 2For Uber/Lyft: board the green 'LAX-it' shuttle — runs 24/7
- 3Order the ride only after you arrive at LAX-it (faster pickup)
- 4For Big Blue Bus: take the 'LAX City Bus Center' shuttle from the same curb
- 5Route 3 / Rapid 3 runs every 12–20 min — $1.25, exact change or TAP card
Scam warnings
Avoid this
- • Anyone offering a ride at the terminal curb
- • Taxi quotes above $70 — refuse and use the meter
- • Booking the rideshare before reaching LAX-it (you'll be charged for the wait)
Frequently asked
Q.How much is a taxi from Los Angeles International to Santa Monica?
$45–$60 metered + $4 airport fee + tip. Always confirm the fare or that the meter is on before pulling away. Watch for: Curbside 'town car' drivers approaching arrivals — illegal and unmetered.
Q.What is the cheapest safe way from LAX to Santa Monica?
Big Blue Bus Route 3 / Rapid 3 — $1.25 to Santa Monica, ~40 min. Take the shuttle to the LAX City Bus Center first.
Q.Does Uber or ride-hailing work at Los Angeles International?
Uber, Lyft, Opoli — pickup only at LAX-it lot. Free shuttle from each terminal.
Q.What's the best way from LAX to Santa Monica at night?
Uber or Lyft from LAX-it — taxi rank also works, ~$50 metered.
Q.What scams should I watch for going from LAX to Santa Monica?
Top reported: Curbside 'town car' drivers approaching arrivals — illegal and unmetered; Drivers refusing to take you because the trip is 'too short' (it isn't); Surge-priced rides during peak hours hitting $80+. Use the official taxi rank, never accept a fare from someone approaching you in arrivals.