Car Rental Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO)

Reasons to book a car rental at Santa Monica Airport

Renting a car at Santa Monica Airport (SMO) is a convenient choice for visitors looking to explore the vibrant surroundings at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy flexible travel plans while visiting nearby attractions. The stunning Santa Monica Beach is only 5 km away, perfect for a relaxing day by the ocean. Just 4 km from the airport, you can experience the iconic Santa Monica Pier, a popular spot for leisurely strolls and seaside fun. If you're in the mood for some upscale shopping, Rodeo Drive is situated 7 km away, offering a great city experience.

Additionally, having a rental car allows you to venture into the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles, where you can explore attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain. You can also take a short drive to the nearby city of Venice, located just 3 km from the airport, known for Muscle Beach and its picturesque coastline. Whether you're a family, a couple, or a solo traveller, renting a car enhances your sightseeing experience around Santa Monica Airport and the greater area.

Most popular car rentals near Santa Monica Airport

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for travellers at Santa Monica airport, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it ideal for families, couples, or small groups who need extra space for luggage while enjoying the comfort of a larger vehicle. With its versatile size, a Midsize SUV offers the perfect balance between spaciousness and manoeuvrability, making it great for exploring the surrounding areas.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is another well-booked option at Santa Monica airport, accommodating 5 travellers and fitting up to 2 medium suitcases. It’s a fantastic choice for couples, families, or groups looking for a vehicle that provides ample room without being overly large. This car is designed for those who want a comfortable ride while maintaining the flexibility needed to navigate the local attractions easily.
• Economy: The Economy car is an excellent option for solo travellers, couples, or families, accommodating up to 5 passengers with space for 2 medium suitcases. Known for its efficiency, this car type is perfect for those wanting a budget-friendly rental without sacrificing comfort. It’s ideal for navigating the Santa Monica area while ensuring that you have enough room for your essentials, making it a practical choice for various travel needs.

Top rated car suppliers near Santa Monica Airport

• Sixt: Sixt is a popular choice for travellers at Santa Monica airport, offering 2 rental locations within a convenient 3 km distance. Known for its premium vehicles, the most booked options with Sixt include Midsize SUVs and Luxury cars, making it ideal for those seeking a comfortable and stylish ride to explore the area.
• Budget: With over 5 rental locations situated within 3 km of Santa Monica airport, Budget is a fantastic option for cost-conscious travellers. Their fleet includes Midsize and Standard SUVs, providing great versatility for your adventures while ensuring you have ample space for luggage and passengers.
• Avis: Avis also features more than 5 rental locations within a short 3 km of Santa Monica airport. This supplier is well-regarded for its Midsize SUVs and Standard vehicles, which are perfect for enjoying a spacious and comfortable journey around Santa Monica and beyond.

Where to stay near Santa Monica Airport

• Santa Monica: Nestled near the SMO-Santa Monica Municipal airport, Santa Monica is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The famous Santa Monica Beach offers a perfect spot for relaxation, while the Santa Monica Pier provides a vibrant atmosphere with various attractions. Visitors can also explore nearby dining options and shopping areas that cater to diverse tastes. This city is best enjoyed in the warmer months when beach activities are at their peak.
• Hollywood: Located approximately 14 km from Santa Monica, Hollywood is a cultural hub that attracts families and entertainment lovers alike. Key attractions include the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Universal Studios Hollywood, which are perfect for a day of fun and exploration. The area features numerous dining establishments and is a great place to immerse yourself in the vibrant film industry culture.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Santa Monica

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for additional luggage, Expedia’s filters can help you discover the perfect fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure the lowest rates and the widest selection, it's generally advisable to book your SMO car rental as early as possible. Aim to finalize your booking 1-3 months in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to confirming your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is often the most convenient option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refueling choices, which are also acceptable, but ensure that you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car from Santa Monica Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Santa Monica Airport is December, which sees lower prices and moderate demand. The months of May and August can also offer slightly lower prices with average to moderately high demand. However, July tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand and rental rates. March follows closely as a busy month, often leading to increased costs and demand for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
February	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
March	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
April	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	69.8°F (21.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
July	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
September	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
December	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low