Santa Ana Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Ana

Renting a car in Santa Ana offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key sites such as the Bowers Museum and the historic Old Orange County Courthouse, both located within Santa Ana. Families will appreciate the convenience of driving to Disneyland® Resort, which is only 9 km away, offering a delightful day of entertainment. Beyond Santa Ana, cities like Anaheim and Orange are just a short drive away, featuring additional family-friendly attractions like Knott's Berry Farm and Irvine Regional Park. For a beach day, Newport Beach is a mere 15 km from Santa Ana, allowing you to enjoy scenic piers and beautiful shores. Renting a car makes managing luggage and planning your schedule hassle-free, whether you're travelling with family or seeking city-themed experiences. You can easily create a customised itinerary that suits your interests and enjoy the flexibility of spontaneous stops along the way. This way, you can truly make the most of your visit to Santa Ana and its many nearby destinations.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Ana

• Midsize SUV: This car accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. It's ideal for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and convenience while exploring Santa Ana. With its versatile size, the Midsize SUV provides ample room for passengers and luggage, making it a popular choice for those who value both space and manoeuvrability.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, this vehicle also accommodates 5 travellers but has space for up to 2 medium suitcases. The Standard SUV strikes a great balance between size and comfort, allowing for an enjoyable ride while providing sufficient cargo capacity for your journey in and around Santa Ana. It's an excellent option for those who want a reliable vehicle with enough room for essentials.
• Fullsize: This spacious car can accommodate 5 travellers and carry up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it ideal for families and groups. The Fullsize vehicle offers generous space for both passengers and luggage, ensuring a comfortable travel experience. Whether you're embarking on a longer trip or need extra room for your belongings, this option is a top choice among travellers in Santa Ana.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Ana

• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations conveniently situated in Santa Ana, Enterprise is a top choice for travellers seeking flexibility and ease. Known for their friendly service, clean vehicles, and short wait times, they boast an impressive overall rating of 8.8 out of 10. The most booked cars with Enterprise are the Midsize SUV and Premium SUV, making it a great option for those looking for spacious and comfortable vehicles for their travels.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Another popular supplier in Santa Ana, Thrifty Car Rental also features 3 rental locations in the area. They provide great options for those looking to rent a Midsize SUV or Fullsize vehicle. With a focus on affordability and convenience, Thrifty is an excellent choice for travellers wanting to explore the region without breaking the bank.
• Avis: Avis has 3 rental locations throughout Santa Ana, making it easy for visitors to find a convenient pick-up point. Known for their range of vehicles, the most booked options here include the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV. Avis is a reliable supplier that prioritizes customer satisfaction, ensuring you have a smooth rental experience while exploring Santa Ana and its surroundings.

Where to stay around Santa Ana

• Anaheim: Located 11 km from Santa Ana, Anaheim is an ideal spot for families and those seeking entertainment and cultural experiences. With attractions such as Disneyland® Resort and Disney California Adventure® Park, families can enjoy theme park adventures. The city also offers shopping centres and a vibrant arts scene, making it suitable for a well-rounded stay. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are manageable.
• Newport Beach: Situated 15 km from Santa Ana, Newport Beach is perfect for families looking for outdoor and beach experiences. The area features beautiful beaches, including Crystal Cove Beach, and the Newport Beach Pier. Visitors can also enjoy shopping at local centres and indulge in nearby dining options. The summer months are particularly vibrant here, with plenty of activities and events along the waterfront.
• Huntington Beach: Also 15 km away from Santa Ana, Huntington Beach is a lively destination known for its outdoor and entertainment offerings. Key attractions include the Huntington Beach Pier and Main Street, where visitors can explore shops and dining. This area is ideal for beach lovers and families, especially during the summer season when the beach atmosphere is at its peak, making it an exciting place to stay.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer outings, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize filters on Expedia to identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to obtain lower prices and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically cost less to rent and are easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in those cases.
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 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 provides peace of mind should any unforeseen events occur during your trip. It’s simple to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extended road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
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 Ana

The best time to rent a car in and around Santa Ana is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February follows closely, still offering slightly low rates but with higher demand. April and May are also reasonable months, as prices are moderate and demand remains steady. However, March tends to be the most expensive month, marked by high demand and higher prices, making it less ideal for budget-conscious renters.