Santa Barbara Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Barbara

Renting a car in Santa Barbara provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families and those with outdoor interests, as a rental car allows for easy luggage management and flexible travel plans. You can effortlessly visit key attractions such as the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse, which offers cultural experiences, and the Santa Barbara Harbor, perfect for outdoor adventures and beach outings. With a car, you can also access beautiful locations like Butterfly Beach, known for its scenic views.

Additionally, having a rental car makes it convenient to explore popular neighbourhoods like Santa Barbara Beach, Montecito, and Downtown Santa Barbara. These areas feature attractions like Stearns Wharf and beautiful beaches, all easily reachable by car. With so much to see and do, renting a vehicle ensures you can make the most of your trip while enjoying the stunning coastal scenery and attractions without the constraints of public transport schedules.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Barbara

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is a popular choice for travellers in Santa Barbara, accommodating up to 5 people and offering space for 3 large suitcases. This vehicle is perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for comfort and versatility. With the ability to navigate both city streets and scenic coastal drives, a midsize SUV provides the freedom to explore Santa Barbara at your own pace, making it an ideal option for those needing extra room for luggage and beach gear.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is another highly sought-after choice, also accommodating 5 travellers with the capacity to hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it perfect for families or larger groups who require ample space for passengers and their belongings. The fullsize option offers a blend of comfort and practicality, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Santa Barbara while having the flexibility to carry everything you need for your trip.
• Economy: The Economy car is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travellers, accommodating up to 5 people with enough space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small families looking for an economical way to explore Santa Barbara. With its compact size, the economy car is easy to manoeuvre through the city and find parking, making it a convenient choice for those who want to experience all that Santa Barbara has to offer without breaking the bank.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Barbara

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a leading car rental supplier in Santa Barbara, offering a convenient rental location in the area. Known for its exceptional customer service, Enterprise provides a wide selection of vehicles, making it a popular choice among travellers. The most booked cars with Enterprise are Midsize SUVs and Standard Vans, catering to various needs, whether you're travelling with family or require extra space for luggage. Their flexible rental options allow you to explore Santa Barbara at your own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz stands out in Santa Barbara with its reliable car rental services and a single rental location in the area. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Economy and Midsize SUVs, which are perfect for navigating the scenic routes and landscapes of the region. Customers appreciate Hertz for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, making it an excellent option for both short trips and extended stays. Enjoy the freedom to manage your itinerary as you explore the beautiful surroundings of Santa Barbara.
• Budget: Budget is a popular choice for car rentals in Santa Barbara, providing travellers with a convenient rental location. Known for its competitive rates, Budget offers a selection of vehicles that include Fullsize and Midsize SUVs, ideal for those seeking comfort and space. Customers often highlight the value and affordability of Budget's services, making it a solid option for families and groups. With Budget, you can easily explore attractions and manage your luggage without hassle.

Where to stay in Santa Barbara

• Santa Barbara Beach: Located near a vibrant beach atmosphere, Santa Barbara Beach is ideal for families seeking outdoor fun. The area offers access to Santa Barbara Harbor, providing opportunities for adventure and beach holidays. Nearby attractions include the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse, perfect for culture enthusiasts, and Stearns Wharf, a scenic jetty. With numerous restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, it serves as a great base for a beach-centric holiday.
• Montecito: Renowned for its upscale charm, Montecito attracts visitors looking for a blend of beach and outdoor experiences. Notable highlights include Butterfly Beach, which is perfect for a relaxing beach day. The area also features the Santa Barbara County Courthouse for culture lovers and Santa Barbara Harbor for those interested in outdoor adventures. With various shopping centres and dining options, Montecito offers a delightful stay close to nature and luxury.
• Downtown Santa Barbara: This bustling neighbourhood is a hub for family-friendly activities and urban exploration. Downtown Santa Barbara features landmarks like the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse and the scenic Santa Barbara Harbor, both within easy reach. Visitors can enjoy a variety of theatres and shopping areas, alongside numerous restaurants and breweries. Its vibrant atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in the city life while still enjoying easy access to beach attractions.

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

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 economical 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 secure your car well ahead of your travel dates. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size cars offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years of age may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This policy can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age restrictions prior to making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in these 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 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 unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unexpected events during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s licence is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Santa Barbara

The best value period to rent a car in and around Santa Barbara is June, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This month offers a great balance for those looking to explore the area. April and May also present moderate prices with average demand, making them solid shoulder options. In contrast, February is the most expensive month, as it sees high demand and slightly higher prices. March and August follow closely behind, also experiencing increased demand and average pricing.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	55.6°F (13.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
February	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Slightly High
March	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Average
April	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	72.1°F (22.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
September	71.6°F (22.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
December	55.2°F (12.9°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Low	Average