$45 Car Rental Balboa Island, CA

These Balboa Island insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 16, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Balboa Island

Renting a car in and around Balboa Island offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. As a neighborhood situated in Newport Beach, Balboa Island provides easy access to key attractions such as Balboa Beach, which is less than 1 mile away, perfect for a relaxing beach experience. For outdoor enthusiasts, Crystal Cove State Park is only 4 miles away, offering scenic views and adventure opportunities. Additionally, Huntington Beach Pier is a short 7 miles from Balboa Island, making it convenient for a day trip to enjoy the iconic pier and local activities.

A rental car is especially beneficial for families, allowing for easy luggage management and comfortable travel with children. You can also explore nearby destinations like Laguna Beach, located 8 miles away, or enjoy the amenities of Newport Beach, which features its own pier and beautiful coastal scenery. With a rental car, your travel plans are flexible, enabling you to visit these attractions without the constraints of public transportation. Overall, having a car enhances your experience and ensures you make the most of your time in this charming coastal area.

Most popular car rentals around Balboa Island

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for families, couples, or small groups. This car type is perfect for those looking to enjoy the scenic views around Balboa Island while having enough space for luggage and comfort during your drives.
• Standard SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 2 medium suitcases—ideal for couples, families, or groups. With a balance of comfort and space, this vehicle is a great choice for exploring the area at your own pace, allowing for easy management of your belongings as you travel.
• Fullsize: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases—ideal for families or groups. This option offers ample room for passengers and luggage, making it an excellent choice for those traveling with more gear or planning longer trips around Balboa Island.

Top rated car suppliers around Balboa Island

• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is a popular choice among travelers, located 5 miles away from Balboa Island. With an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, it is known for its friendly service and short wait times. Most customers favor renting Midsize SUVs and Premium SUVs, making it a reliable option for those looking for comfort and space during their travels.
• Budget: Budget has two rental locations, with the nearest being 3 miles from Balboa Island. This supplier is favored for its competitive pricing and offers a selection of Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, making it a great option for travelers seeking a balance between affordability and vehicle options. Budget is well-regarded for its efficient service, ensuring a smooth rental experience.
• Hertz: With three rental locations and the closest being 4 miles away from Balboa Island, Hertz provides a diverse range of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options. This supplier is recognized for its extensive selection and customer-friendly service, making it a solid choice for those wanting to explore the beautiful surroundings of Newport Beach at their own pace.

Where to stay around Balboa Island

• Balboa Island: A charming destination within Newport Beach, Balboa Island offers a unique experience with its scenic waterfront and quaint shops. Enjoy the local beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. You can easily access attractions like the Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier, making it an ideal base for exploring the coastal delights of the area.
• Newport Beach: As a vibrant city just a stone's throw from Balboa Island, Newport Beach presents a blend of outdoor activities and urban experiences. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local centers and dining at diverse restaurants. The nearby Crystal Cove Beach is perfect for a beach vacation, while attractions like golf courses provide additional recreational options.
• Laguna Beach: Located 8 miles from Balboa Island, Laguna Beach is renowned for its stunning beaches and artistic community. This area is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Key highlights include Treasure Island Beach and Thousand Steps Beach, both excellent choices for sunbathing and swimming. The local dining scene also features a variety of restaurants and wineries.
• Huntington Beach: Situated 7 miles from Balboa Island, Huntington Beach is a lively destination ideal for family and entertainment experiences. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant pier, visitors can explore attractions such as the Disneyland® Resort for a touch of adventure. The area also boasts numerous shopping centers and dining options, making it a great spot for a fun-filled stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Balboa Island

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or a compact car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's wise to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are often more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a solid compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just make sure to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience might justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most 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 if unforeseen issues arise during your trip. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to sidestep extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Balboa Island

The best time to rent a car in and around Balboa Island is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February follows closely, offering low demand and similar pricing. As spring arrives, prices and demand remain steady through April and May. However, June through August see a rise in both prices and demand, with August being the most expensive month. September offers a slight reprieve, with lower prices and demand returning before October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	57.9°F (14.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	61.3°F (16.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.3°F (17.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	66.9°F (19.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	68.9°F (20.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average