San Luis Obispo Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Luis Obispo

Renting a car in San Luis Obispo offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for tourists wishing to visit various attractions, such as the serene Avila Hot Springs and the charming Avila Beach, located 13 km away. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, which is ideal for families or groups with equipment and gear.

Additionally, a car allows you to discover cultural landmarks like Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, located in Downtown San Luis Obispo, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Town Historic District. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or scenic views, having a rental vehicle makes it convenient to explore popular destinations without relying on public transport. You can easily navigate to nearby beaches, hot springs, and local attractions, ensuring a memorable experience in and around San Luis Obispo.

Most popular car rentals in San Luis Obispo

• Midsize: This car option is a popular choice for those travelling in groups of up to 5 people. With the ability to accommodate up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize car is ideal for couples or families looking to explore San Luis Obispo comfortably. Its spacious interior allows for easy luggage management, making it perfect for your adventure in and around the area.
• Compact: A versatile option for up to 5 travellers, the Compact car can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it suitable for solo travellers, couples, or small families. If you're looking for a more economical choice that still offers enough space for your belongings, the Compact is a great fit while navigating the scenic roads of San Luis Obispo.
• Standard SUV: Accommodating 5 travellers and up to 2 medium suitcases, the Standard SUV provides a comfortable ride for couples, families, or groups. Its higher seating position offers better visibility and a more commanding presence on the road. This option is ideal for those wanting a blend of space and capability while exploring the beautiful surroundings of San Luis Obispo.

Top rated car suppliers in San Luis Obispo

• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations conveniently situated in the San Luis Obispo area, Enterprise is a top choice for travellers seeking flexibility. They are particularly known for their Midsize and Compact SUVs, making it easy to navigate the beautiful Californian landscape. Enjoy the convenience of managing your itinerary while experiencing the attractions at your own pace.
• Avis: Avis operates 2 rental locations in San Luis Obispo, providing a reliable option for visitors. Known for their Midsize and Standard SUVs, Avis offers vehicles that are perfect for comfortable travel around the city and its surroundings. Their presence in the area ensures easy access to your rental, allowing you to explore without hassle.
• Budget: Budget also features 2 rental locations within San Luis Obispo, catering to those who prioritise value. They offer Midsize and Economy vehicles, making it an excellent option for cost-conscious travellers. With Budget, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your plans, all while enjoying the freedom of a rental car.

Where to stay in and around San Luis Obispo

• Avila Beach: Located 13 km from San Luis Obispo, Avila Beach offers a captivating outdoor and beach experience. This scenic city features attractions such as Avila Beach itself, perfect for a relaxing beach holiday, and the Pismo Beach Pier, a lovely jetty pier. For wellness and relaxation, the Avila Hot Springs is an excellent choice. Visitors can also enjoy nearby food and drink options, including restaurants and wineries, making this area ideal for those looking to unwind while enjoying stunning coastal views.
• Downtown San Luis Obispo: Situated at the heart of San Luis Obispo, this vibrant neighbourhood is known for its cultural and outdoor experiences. Key points of interest include the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and the charming Ah Louis Store. The area is also home to a public market and various restaurants and wineries, offering a taste of local flavour. Downtown San Luis Obispo is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts, particularly during events that showcase its rich heritage.
• Foothill: This neighbourhood, located around San Luis Obispo, is ideal for those seeking cultural and outdoor activities. It offers proximity to historical landmarks like the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and the Avila Hot Springs, which is perfect for relaxation. Foothill is also close to beaches and has a variety of dining options, including wineries and breweries. This area is particularly appealing to families wanting to explore educational venues such as local cinemas and theatres while enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Luis Obispo

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure more competitive rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other rentals may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental agencies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around San Luis Obispo

The best value period to rent a car in and around San Luis Obispo is June, when prices are at their lowest and demand is also quite low. Nearby months like January and February offer slightly low prices with moderate demand, making them good shoulder options. However, November tends to be the most expensive month with average demand, while October sees moderately high prices and demand as well.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	52.7°F (11.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
May	60.8°F (16.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
June	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
July	68.7°F (20.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
August	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	64.6°F (18.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
November	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	52.2°F (11.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average