Frequently Asked Questions About Coach Bus Rentals in Santa Monica
FAQS
Santa Monica Coach Bus Service offers one of the largest and most diverse fleets in Santa Monica, with vehicles for groups of every size and budget. You can book a 15-, 20-, 25-, or 35-passenger minibus from top brands like Grech Motors, Battisti Customs, Midwest Automotive Designs, Tiffany Coach Builders, or LGE Coachworks—perfect for local shuttles or small group outings. For larger groups, we have 40-, 45-, 50-, and 56-passenger charter buses from MCI, Prevost, Van Hool, and Setra, each equipped with premium amenities for long-distance travel. We also offer party buses (10 to 50 passengers), sprinter vans (10 to 15 passengers), and school buses. Every bus comes with great amenities, and our team will help you find the best option for your itinerary.
Santa Monica charter bus rental prices vary based on several factors, including the size of the bus, the length of your trip, and the time of year. In general, you can expect to pay between $145 and $550+ per hour for a full-size charter bus, $150 to $450+ per hour for a minibus, $180 to $520+ per hour for a party bus, and $160 to $450+ per hour for a sprinter van. Daily rates range from $1,520 to $5,000+ depending on the vehicle and itinerary. The best way to get an accurate quote is to call our team at 424-478-5850 or use our online tool to get an instant price estimate in under 30 seconds.
Several factors influence the cost of your bus rental, including the type of bus you choose, the length and distance of your trip, and the time of year you’re traveling. Larger buses with more amenities generally cost more than smaller, more basic models. Peak travel seasons, such as summer and major holidays, can also lead to higher prices due to increased demand. Additional factors like tolls, parking fees, and special requests may affect your final quote. For the most accurate pricing, provide as much detail as possible when you request a quote.
It’s best to book your Santa Monica bus rental as early as possible, especially if you’re traveling during peak season or planning a large event. We recommend reserving your bus at least three to six months in advance for spring and summer trips, or for major events like graduations, weddings, or festivals. If you’re traveling during the off-season or have a flexible schedule, you may be able to book closer to your departure date. Last-minute rentals are possible, but availability may be limited and prices may be higher.
Our Santa Monica fleet includes buses with a wide range of amenities to keep your group comfortable and entertained. Standard features on most vehicles include reclining seats, climate control, overhead storage, and onboard restrooms (on full-size coaches). Many buses also offer free WiFi, power outlets, USB ports, and flat-screen TVs with DVD players. For longer trips, you can request a bus with extra luggage space, footrests, or even a kitchenette area. Party buses come equipped with wraparound seating, LED lighting, and sound systems. Let us know what you need, and we’ll get you a bus that fits your requirements.
We serve all kinds of groups and events across Santa Monica and the greater Los Angeles area. Common uses include corporate shuttles for companies in Silicon Beach, wedding transportation to venues like Shutters on the Beach or Casa Del Mar, field trip buses for local schools visiting the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium or Getty Villa, sports team buses to UCLA or Santa Monica College games, and private charter buses for concerts at the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theatre. We also provide party buses for nights out on the Sunset Strip, sprinter vans for airport transfers to LAX or Burbank, and long-distance coaches for trips to Disneyland, Las Vegas, or San Diego.
Getting a quote is quick and easy. Just call our 24/7 reservation team at 424-478-5850 or fill out the online form on our website with details about your trip. We’ll need to know your travel dates, pickup and drop-off locations, group size, and any specific amenities you want. You’ll receive an instant quote in less than 30 seconds, and there’s no obligation to book. If you have questions or need help choosing the right bus, our team is always here to assist.
Santa Monica has strict regulations about where buses can park, load, and unload passengers. Popular drop-off points include the Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, and Palisades Park, but these areas often have time limits and may require a permit. For longer-term parking, buses can use designated spots at the Civic Center, Lot 4 South, or off-site locations arranged in advance. It’s important to check with the city or your venue before your trip to avoid fines or delays. Our team can help you plan the best route and staging areas for your itinerary.
Your quote covers the use of the bus for the duration of your trip, standard amenities like WiFi, power outlets, and climate control, and mileage based on your itinerary. Tolls, parking fees, and other incidental expenses are not included and should be paid directly as needed. There are no hidden fees, and you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for before you sign anything. If you have questions about what’s covered, just ask our team when you call.
Yes, we offer one-way bus rentals to destinations across California and beyond. Whether you’re moving to a new city, catching a cruise out of Long Beach, or flying out of LAX, we can provide a comfortable and convenient ride without requiring you to book a return trip. One-way charters are available to popular destinations like Downtown LA, Anaheim, Palm Springs, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco. Pricing is based on distance and availability, so contact us for a custom quote.
Absolutely! We have a great selection of party buses in Santa Monica ranging from 10 to 50 passengers, perfect for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, proms, or any celebration that calls for music and dancing. Our party buses feature wraparound leather seating, color-changing LED lights, hardwood floors, built-in coolers, and premium sound systems with Bluetooth connectivity. Larger models may include multiple TV screens, dance poles, and even a bar area. You can cruise down Ocean Avenue, hit the clubs in West Hollywood, or take a scenic ride up PCH while enjoying the ultimate mobile party experience.
The main difference is size and capacity: minibuses seat 15 to 35 passengers and are ideal for short-distance trips, shuttles, or small groups, while charter buses (also known as coach buses) seat 40 to 56 passengers and are designed for long-distance travel with more amenities and storage space. Minibuses are easier to maneuver in city traffic and can access tighter streets, making them a popular choice for corporate commuters or wedding shuttles. Charter buses offer the most comfort and features for extended journeys, including onboard restrooms, reclining seats, and large luggage bays. Both options are available in our Santa Monica fleet, and we can help you decide which is best for your needs.