Santa Monica Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Monica

Renting a car in Santa Monica offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and adapt your travel plans as you wish. This is particularly beneficial for families seeking outdoor and entertainment experiences. You can visit popular attractions such as Santa Monica Beach, perfect for a day of sun and sand, or take a stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier. The Third Street Promenade provides a family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for shopping and dining. Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture beyond Santa Monica. You can drive a short distance to Los Angeles, where you can explore major attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood, or head to Venice, just 4 km away, to experience Muscle Beach and Venice Beach. Marina del Rey, located 6 km from Santa Monica, also offers beautiful beaches to discover. With a car, you can maximize your time and enjoy the diverse experiences this area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Monica

• Standard SUV: This car type accommodates 5 travellers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it an excellent choice for couples, families, or groups. With a standard SUV, you'll have the comfort and space needed to navigate Santa Monica and its surroundings while enjoying the flexibility to manage your luggage effortlessly.
• Luxury: The luxury option caters to 5 travellers and can hold up to 4 large suitcases, which is perfect for business travellers, couples, or small groups seeking a premium experience. Renting a luxury vehicle not only enhances your travel comfort but also elevates your overall experience while exploring Santa Monica.
• Midsize SUV: Accommodating 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, the midsize SUV is a versatile choice for families, couples, or small groups. This option balances space and comfort, allowing you to enjoy your trip while ensuring that everyone and their belongings are well accommodated during your travels in and around Santa Monica.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Monica

• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with three rental locations conveniently situated in the Santa Monica area. This supplier is particularly popular among travellers for its extensive selection of vehicles, including Luxury and Standard Convertible options. Customers appreciate the flexibility and customer service provided by Enterprise, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a reliable rental experience while exploring Santa Monica.
• Sixt: Sixt operates one rental location in Santa Monica, offering a range of high-quality vehicles. Most notably, they feature Premium and Midsize SUVs, which are ideal for travellers looking for comfort and space. Sixt is well-regarded for its customer service and the quality of its fleet, making it a great option for those planning to navigate the beautiful surroundings of Santa Monica.
• Hertz: Hertz also has a single rental location within Santa Monica. This supplier is well-liked for its selection of Midsize and Standard SUVs, providing travellers with ample room for luggage and passengers. Hertz is known for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a pleasant rental experience as you explore the vibrant city and nearby attractions.

Where to stay around Santa Monica

• Santa Monica: Known for its beautiful beach, Santa Monica Beach offers a perfect spot for a beach holiday. This vibrant area features a lively pier, shopping, and dining options. It's an excellent base for families and those seeking entertainment, with proximity to attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain.
• Venice: Located 4 km away from Santa Monica, Venice is famous for its outdoor and beach experiences. With attractions such as Muscle Beach Venice and the lively Venice Beach boardwalk, this area is perfect for families looking for fun in the sun. The local dining scene also offers a variety of options to enjoy after a day at the beach.
• Marina del Rey: Situated 6 km from Santa Monica, Marina del Rey is a scenic destination ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore Marina Beach and enjoy a range of shopping and dining options nearby. Its close proximity to both Santa Monica and Venice Beach makes it a great choice for beach holidays and family outings.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Santa Monica

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, leverage the filters on Expedia to locate the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—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 prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may have full-to-empty or prepaid fuel choices, which can be acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, though the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offer peace of mind if any unforeseen incidents occur during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that include unlimited mileage to prevent extra 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 Santa Monica

The best value period to rent a car in and around Santa Monica is November, when prices are at their lowest and demand is relatively quiet. This month follows slightly low demand months like September and October, which also offer moderate pricing. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with high demand and moderately high prices. June and August also see average pricing and demand, making them busier times for rentals.