Santa Maria Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Maria

Renting a car in Santa Maria offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and surrounding attractions at your own pace. This convenience allows you to manage your luggage easily and adapt your travel plans as needed. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, or family outings, a rental car is a practical choice. You can visit key attractions like the Santa Maria Fairpark, ideal for family experiences, and the Santa Maria Country Club for a round of golf. Additionally, the scenic Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area is only 25 km away, providing an excellent opportunity for outdoor exploration.

A rental car also facilitates visits to nearby destinations such as Nipomo, situated 11 km from Santa Maria, where you can enjoy the Santa Maria Speedway and other local sites. Orcutt, located within Santa Maria, features attractions like the Santa Maria Museum of Flight. For further exploration, Casmalia, 13 km away, offers access to the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes. Overall, having a rental car enhances your travel experience by providing comfort, convenience, and the ability to discover more of what the region has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Maria

• Economy: The most popular choice for travellers in Santa Maria, the Economy car accommodates up to 5 passengers and can carry 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking to explore the area at their own pace while enjoying easy luggage management.
• Premium SUV: Ideal for business travellers, the Premium SUV also accommodates up to 5 passengers and has space for 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle combines comfort with utility, making it a great option for those who need a reliable vehicle for work-related travel while still enjoying the flexibility of exploring Santa Maria.
• Standard SUV: The Standard SUV is another excellent choice for groups, couples, and families, accommodating 5 passengers and 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle provides ample space and comfort, making it ideal for those who want to travel together while enjoying the convenience of a versatile SUV for their adventures around Santa Maria.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Maria

• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Santa Maria, making it a convenient choice for travellers. Known for its economical options, the most booked cars include Economy and Compact vehicles. This supplier is an excellent option for those seeking affordability while enjoying the freedom to explore the area at their own pace.
• Enterprise: With 1 rental location in Santa Maria, Enterprise is a popular choice for those looking for a premium experience. Customers frequently choose Premium SUVs and Standard SUVs from their fleet, which are ideal for families or groups needing extra space. Enterprise is praised for its reliable service and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a smooth rental experience.
• Avis: Avis also boasts 1 rental location in Santa Maria and offers a variety of vehicles tailored to different needs. The most booked options are Economy and Midsize cars, making it a suitable choice for both solo travellers and small groups. Avis is recognized for its efficient service and commitment to customer satisfaction, enhancing the overall rental experience.

Where to stay in and around Santa Maria

• Arroyo Grande: Located 23 km from Santa Maria, Arroyo Grande is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. Visitors can enjoy activities at local venues like golf courses and recreational areas. Key points of interest include the Heritage House Museum and Gardens, Pismo Beach Pier, and the Clark Center for the Performing Arts. With a variety of nearby wineries and restaurants, Arroyo Grande offers a delightful mix of culture and relaxation.
• Nipomo: Situated 11 km from Santa Maria, Nipomo is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and sports lovers. The area features stunning natural landscapes and opportunities for golfing. Notable attractions include the Santa Maria Speedway, Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area, and Santa Maria Fairpark. With numerous wineries and restaurants nearby, Nipomo provides a great balance of adventure and culinary experiences.
• Orcutt: Located within Santa Maria, Orcutt is a charming village perfect for outdoor activities and romantic getaways. The area offers access to golf courses and private clubs, as well as beautiful valleys and nearby national parks. Key attractions include the Santa Maria Country Club, Santa Maria Fairpark, and the Santa Maria Museum of Flight. With various local wineries and dining options, Orcutt is a lovely spot for a relaxed holiday.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and features that suit your needs. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilise the filters on Expedia to find the ideal vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to access lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—like SUVs or premium models—may 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 rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which can also be acceptable. 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, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies 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 should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extended road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring 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 Maria

The best time to rent a car in and around Santa Maria is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is high. March offers the lowest demand and reasonably priced rentals, making it a quiet choice. April to June also provide average prices and demand, creating a balanced experience. However, October tends to be the most expensive month, with moderately high prices and steady demand. September and November follow closely, maintaining average prices with consistent demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	53.8°F (12.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Moderately Low
February	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Average
March	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
April	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
June	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
July	65.7°F (18.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
August	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
September	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
November	57.9°F (14.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	53.2°F (11.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High