Pasadena, CA, known for its historic architecture and vibrant cultural scene, offers a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Meanwhile, Santa Monica, CA, boasts stunning beaches and a lively pier, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
Traveling between these two cities provides a delightful contrast of experiences, from urban sophistication to coastal relaxation.
Whether for business or leisure, exploring transportation options between Pasadena and Santa Monica is essential for a smooth journey.
5 Ways to go from Pasadena, CA to Santa Monica, CA
1. Shuttle Service
Shuttle Service offers a convenient and budget-friendly way to travel from Pasadena, CA to Santa Monica, CA. This shared transportation option operates on a fixed schedule, making it a reliable choice for those looking to avoid the hassle of driving.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Factors such as traffic and the number of stops can affect the duration. Opt for express shuttles if you need a faster option.
- Cost: Prices generally range from $20 to $40 per person. Costs can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and service tiers. Discounts are often available for early bookings.
- 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.
Shuttle Service is ideal for budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer shared rides. For a smooth journey, consider booking in advance and checking the schedule for express options.
Book a transfer with Mozio
Your go-to ground transportation platform - Airport Shuttles, Taxis, Buses, Transfers & Limousines, anytime and everywhere.
Book now →2. Luxury Car Service
Luxury Car Service offers a private, high-end transportation option for those seeking comfort and convenience. This service provides a fleet of premium vehicles, driven by professional chauffeurs, ensuring a seamless and stylish travel experience.
- Travel time: The journey from Pasadena to Santa Monica typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for a service with real-time traffic updates can help minimize delays.
- Cost: Prices generally range from $100 to $200, depending on the type of vehicle and time of booking. Peak hours and last-minute reservations may increase costs. Booking in advance can help secure better rates.
- 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 provides a comfortable, private, and stress-free travel experience. With professional drivers, premium vehicles, and personalized service, it stands out as a superior choice for those valuing convenience and style.
This service is ideal for business travelers, special occasions, or anyone looking to travel in luxury. For the best experience, consider booking well in advance and choosing a service with real-time traffic updates.
3. Private Driver
Private Driver is a personalized transportation service offering a private, luxury travel experience. It provides door-to-door service, ensuring comfort and convenience. This option is ideal for those seeking a hassle-free journey without the need to share the ride with others.
- Travel time: The journey from Pasadena to Santa Monica typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour. Factors such as traffic conditions and time of day can affect the duration. Opting for a Private Driver during off-peak hours can result in a faster trip.
- Cost: The price for a Private Driver service ranges from $80 to $150. Pricing can vary based on peak hours, advance booking, and the type of vehicle chosen. Booking in advance can sometimes secure lower rates.
- 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 offer a user-friendly platform to ensure a seamless booking process.
- Pros: Choosing a Private Driver offers several benefits, including personalized service, comfort, and flexibility. You can enjoy a direct route without stops, ensuring a quicker and more pleasant journey. Additionally, the luxury vehicles provide a premium travel experience.
Private Driver is best for travelers who prioritize comfort and convenience. For an optimal experience, consider booking during off-peak hours and in advance.
4. Public Transportation
Public transportation in Pasadena, CA, offers a budget-friendly and shared travel option to Santa Monica, CA. It involves using buses and trains operated by public transit agencies, making it an economical choice for commuters and tourists alike.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Factors such as traffic, layovers, and schedule frequency can affect the duration. Opting for express services can reduce travel time.
- Cost: The cost ranges from $1.75 to $7.00, depending on the combination of buses and trains used. Pricing can be influenced by peak hours and service tiers. Discounts are available for seniors, students, and frequent travelers.
- Booking process: Travelers can book tickets online, through mobile apps, or purchase them in person at stations. While advance reservations are not required, it is advisable to check schedules and plan ahead, especially during peak hours.
- Pros and cons: Public transportation is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. However, it may involve multiple transfers and longer travel times compared to driving. The convenience of not dealing with parking in Santa Monica is a significant advantage.
Public transportation is ideal for budget-conscious travelers and those who prefer a hassle-free journey without the stress of driving. For a smoother experience, plan your trip during off-peak hours and check schedules in advance.
5. Uber/Rideshare
Uber and other rideshare services offer a convenient way to travel from Pasadena, CA to Santa Monica, CA. These services provide private, shared, luxury, and budget-friendly options, making it easy to find a ride that suits your needs.
- Travel time: The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic conditions. Peak hours and roadworks can extend travel time, while using express lanes may shorten it.
- Cost: Prices generally range from $30 to $60. Factors affecting the cost include peak hours, service tiers (e.g., UberX vs. Uber Black), and advance booking. Discounts and promotions may be available through the app.
- Booking process: Travelers can book a ride through the Uber app or website. Advance reservations are not required but can be made up to 30 days in advance for peace of mind.
- Pros and cons: The main benefits include convenience, door-to-door service, and multiple ride options. Drawbacks may include higher costs during peak times and potential delays due to traffic.
Uber/Rideshare is ideal for travelers seeking convenience and flexibility. For the best experience, consider booking during non-peak hours and checking for available discounts.
Distance between Pasadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA
The distance between Pasadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA is approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers). Notable landmarks along the route include the iconic Griffith Observatory and the bustling Hollywood Boulevard, offering a scenic drive through Los Angeles.

Travel time between Pasadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA
- Shuttle Service: Typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Travel time can vary due to multiple stops and traffic conditions.
- Luxury Car Service: Usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. This option offers a more direct route but can still be affected by traffic.
- Private Driver: Estimated travel time is 1 to 1.5 hours. Personalized service can reduce delays, but traffic remains a factor.
- Public Transportation: Takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Includes transfers and waiting times, which can extend the journey.
- Uber/Rideshare: Generally takes 1 to 1.5 hours. Travel time can fluctuate based on traffic and driver availability.
Cost of transportation between Pasadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA
- Shuttle Service: Costs range from $20 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 $100 and $200. Factors like vehicle type and additional amenities can affect the price. Consider traveling during off-peak hours to save money.
- Private Driver: Typically costs between $80 and $150. Prices are generally fixed, but booking in advance can sometimes offer discounts. All drivers maintain a high quality standard.
- Public Transportation: The most economical option, costing around $1.75 to $3.50. Prices depend on the specific routes and transfers. Using a transit pass can further reduce costs.
- Uber/Rideshare: Prices range from $30 to $60. Costs can fluctuate based on demand, time of day, and traffic conditions. Using discount codes or sharing rides can help lower the fare.
Why traveling with Mozio is best!
- Free cancellations within 24 hours, allowing you to book a ride and still have the flexibility to change your plans.
- 24/7 customer support, a feature not commonly available with other services like Uber, ensuring you have assistance whenever you need it.
- Licensed partners, hand-picked to guarantee security and high-quality service, a rarity in the transportation industry.
- Instantly guaranteed booking, dispelling any misconceptions about the efficiency of our service.
- Flight delayed? No problem. We wait, providing an extra layer of security for your travel plans.
Tips for traveling between Pasadena, CA and Santa Monica, CA
- Choosing the best method: Consider your budget and time constraints. Shuttle services are economical, while luxury car services offer comfort. Public transportation is cost-effective but slower.
- Time-saving strategies: Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM) to minimize traffic delays. Private drivers and rideshares can use carpool lanes to save time.
- Cost-saving tips: Book in advance through services like Mozio to find the best deals. Public transportation is the cheapest option, while rideshares can be affordable if split with others.
- Packing advice: For shuttle services and public transportation, pack light to make boarding easier. For luxury car services and private drivers, you can afford to bring more luggage.
- Best travel times: Early mornings and late evenings are ideal for avoiding traffic. Weekends generally have less congestion compared to weekdays.
- Local insights: Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade are must-visit spots. Plan your arrival to coincide with less crowded times for a more enjoyable experience.
We support both travel agents and travelers!
For Travelers
Mozio simplifies ground transportation for travelers by offering a seamless booking process. Enter your travel details, compare various transportation options, book your ride, and receive instant confirmation. This streamlined approach ensures that you can focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about logistics.
One of the unique benefits of using Mozio is its extensive network, covering thousands of destinations worldwide. Whether you're heading to a bustling city or a remote getaway, Mozio provides reliable and convenient transportation options. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers looking to explore new places without the hassle of navigating local transport systems.
For Travel Agent
For travel agents, Mozio offers a streamlined platform to book ground transportation services for clients. By registering and creating an account, agents can easily book rides, eSIMs, and parking, all while earning a 5% discount and setting their own commission. This efficient system allows agents to manage bookings and track rides from a user-friendly dashboard, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
One of the standout benefits for travel agents using Mozio is its extensive global coverage. With millions of routes in 180 countries and partnerships with over 3,000 providers, agents can offer clients reliable transportation options to thousands of destinations, including 3,500+ airports. This vast network, combined with 24/7 customer support and free online cancellations on 99% of bookings, makes Mozio an invaluable tool for enhancing the travel booking process.