Transportation

Santa Monica is located a convenient eight miles (13 km) north of Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the world's busiest origin and destination (O & D) airport. O&D passengers are those beginning or ending their trips in Southern California rather than using the airport for connecting flights. In total traffic, LAX is the sixth busiest airport in the world for passengers and ranks 13th in the world in air cargo tonnage handled. The central complex features nine passenger terminals connected by a U-shaped two-level roadway. Curbside baggage check-in is available on the upper departure level. Baggage claim is on the lower level. Brand-named and ethnic-styled restaurants, cocktail lounges, gift shops, newsstands, duty free shops for international flights, restrooms, public telephones and business centers offer convenient services for the traveling public.

• Shuttles: Rates for vans between LAX and Santa Monica start at approximately $15 per person one-way, $30-$40 round-trip per person, ($10-$20 for each additional person) not including tip. Shuttles are located on the lower level.

  Shuttle reservations can be made online through the following web sites:

  • http://www.supershuttle.com/Locations/LAXAirportShuttleLosangeles.aspx: click on the Book Online link and select Doubletree by Hilton SM as the final destination. Costs about $15 each way.
  • http://www.primetimeshuttle.com: click on either Roundtrip or One Way links on the main page and select Doubletree, Santa Monica as the final destination. Costs about $15 each way



• Cabs: From LAX to Santa Monica, the charge is approximately $30-$35, not including tip (approximately 15% of fare).


• Big Blue Bus: The Rapid 3 line runs between the Aviation Green Line Metro Station and downtown Santa Monica with additional stops within the city. From the transportation islands at the airport, shuttles run to and from the Green Line Station (Route G) and to the LAX City Bus Center transit station (Route C) at Parking Lot C, which is the best place to catch the Rapid 3. Fare is $1 (50 cents for seniors and passengers with disabilities). Allow about 20-30 minutes to make the shuttle connection and travel. The non-express #3, which makes more stops en route to Santa Monica (about 30 minutes to downtown) and in town, also operates from the transit center at Parking Lot C.