Bakersfield to Santa Monica

How Long Is the Drive from Bakersfield to Santa Monica?

The drive from Bakersfield to Santa Monica takes approximately 2h 18m, covering 127 miles via the highway. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $14 on gas.

Travel time can vary — during peak hours, weekends, or holidays, the journey may take 3–4+ hours. For the fastest trip, leave early morning (before 7 AM) or travel on weekday evenings.

Traffic Estimate

Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.

Best Time to Drive from Bakersfield to Santa Monica

For this shorter drive, the best time to go is early morning (6-8 am). Rush hour (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM) can add significant time on this route. Weekends are generally smoother unless it's a holiday.

Route Tips: I-5

Plan rest stops every 2-3 hours on longer drives. Check traffic conditions before departure and keep your tank above quarter-full.

This trip can typically be done on a single tank of gas.

All Travel Options

Estimated times and prices. Bus/train availability varies by route. Driving gives the most flexibility for stops and schedules.