$10 Car Rental Costa Mesa, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Costa Mesa

Renting a car in Costa Mesa offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. Whether you are traveling with family, managing multiple pieces of luggage, or seeking a convenient way to navigate business-related activities, a rental car makes it easy to get around. You can visit key attractions such as the Orange County Fair and Events Center and the Orange County Museum of Art, both located within Costa Mesa. Additionally, the Huntington Beach Pier is only 5 miles away, providing a great spot for a day at the beach. With a car, you can also easily reach nearby destinations like Newport Beach, just 2 miles away, and Huntington Beach, 5 miles away, which are both known for their scenic piers and beautiful coastlines. Irvine is another option, located 8 miles from Costa Mesa, offering attractions like the Orange County Great Park. A rental car simplifies your travel plans, allowing you to explore these wonderful areas without the constraints of public transport or rideshares.

Most popular car rentals in Costa Mesa

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice among travelers in Costa Mesa, accommodating up to 5 passengers and up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for an affordable and efficient way to explore the area. Its compact size makes it easy to navigate through city streets while providing the flexibility to manage luggage comfortably.
• Midsize: For those needing a bit more space, the Midsize car is a great option. It also accommodates up to 5 travelers but can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it perfect for couples or families who require extra room for their belongings. This vehicle strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, ensuring a pleasant driving experience around Costa Mesa.
• Compact: The Compact car is another highly booked option, designed to fit 5 travelers and carry up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice is versatile and well-suited for solo travelers or couples, offering a good mix of space and efficiency. Its smaller size facilitates ease of parking and maneuverability, making it a practical choice for exploring Costa Mesa and beyond.

Top rated car suppliers in Costa Mesa

• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Costa Mesa, providing a convenient option for travelers seeking flexibility. This supplier is popular for its Midsize SUV and Economy vehicles, catering to various travel needs. Many customers appreciate Budget for its straightforward booking process and reliable service, making it a solid choice for those looking to explore the area at their own pace.
• Hertz: With 1 rental location in Costa Mesa, Hertz is another favored option for car rentals. Travelers often choose Hertz for its Midsize and Economy vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the city and surrounding attractions. Customers value Hertz for its efficient service and well-maintained fleet, ensuring a pleasant driving experience during your visit.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out with 2 rental locations in Costa Mesa, giving travelers more accessibility. Known for its Midsize and Standard vehicles, Enterprise is favored for its commitment to customer service and a seamless rental experience. Many customers highlight the helpful staff and diverse vehicle selection, making it a top choice for families and solo travelers alike.

Where to stay around Costa Mesa

• Newport Beach: Located 2 miles from Costa Mesa, Newport Beach is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. This city offers a vibrant shopping scene, featuring shopping centers and malls, along with access to beautiful beaches like Crystal Cove Beach. Key attractions include the Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier, ideal for leisurely strolls and seaside activities. Visitors can also enjoy nearby restaurants and wineries, making it a well-rounded destination for your stay.
• Huntington Beach: Situated 5 miles from Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach is known for its family-friendly and entertainment-oriented experiences. Outdoor lovers can explore the Huntington Beach Pier or visit the famous Disneyland® Resort, which is a short distance away. The area boasts an array of shopping venues and an amusement park, along with ample dining options. Main Street is another highlight, offering a lively atmosphere that enhances your stay in this coastal city.
• Irvine: About 8 miles from Costa Mesa, Irvine is an excellent choice for those seeking a mix of family, business, and urban experiences. This city features landmarks such as the Orange County Great Park, which is perfect for outdoor activities. Visitors can also explore the Bren Events Center for cultural events or visit Tanaka Farms for a unique outdoor experience. With various dining options and shopping centers, Irvine offers a diverse selection for travelers in the area.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Costa Mesa

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to find the best option for your trip.
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 in advance, you're likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a nice balance of cost, 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 premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, though the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra costs.
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 Costa Mesa

The best time to rent a car in and around Costa Mesa is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is slightly high. April and May are also good options, as they see average prices with slightly low demand. However, September stands out as the most expensive month, with slightly high demand, making it a busier time for rentals. June through August can also be pricier, with average to slightly high demand levels.

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

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Costa Mesa

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Costa Mesa into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Costa Mesa and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Costa Mesa

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Costa Mesa. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Costa Mesa

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $10.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals