$35 Car Rental Half Moon Bay, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Half Moon Bay

Renting a car in Half Moon Bay provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit attractions like Miramar Beach and Pillar Point Harbor, both ideal for enjoying beach and scenic experiences. The convenience of having your own vehicle allows for easy luggage management and the ability to create flexible travel plans, making it a great choice for families or travelers with gear.

Additionally, exploring nearby neighborhoods such as El Granada and Princeton is simple with a rental car. These areas feature stunning views of San Francisco Bay and access to more beach experiences. If you're interested in urban exploration, San Francisco Bay is only 16 miles away, making it easy to plan a day trip. For those venturing slightly farther, Highlands-Baywood Park, located just 6 miles from Half Moon Bay, is another excellent destination to consider. Overall, a rental car enhances your travel experience, allowing you to make the most of your time in and around Half Moon Bay.

Where to stay in and around Half Moon Bay

• El Granada: Nestled near Half Moon Bay, El Granada offers a picturesque experience for travelers seeking outdoor activities and scenic views. Enjoy the nearby Pillar Point Harbor, perfect for beachside relaxation, or visit Miramar Beach for sun and surf. The area is also home to local wineries and restaurants, providing excellent dining options. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to national state parks and the stunning San Francisco Bay, making El Granada a great choice for a memorable stay.
• San Mateo: Located 9 miles from Half Moon Bay, San Mateo is an ideal destination for families and outdoor lovers. Explore Coyote Point Park for family-friendly activities or enjoy shopping at local centers. The city's landmarks include event venues and historic colleges, offering a blend of education and leisure. With various dining options, including wineries and restaurants, San Mateo is a vibrant place to stay while still being close to the coastal charm of Half Moon Bay.
• Burlingame: Burlingame, also situated 9 miles from Half Moon Bay, is perfect for visitors looking for a blend of city life and outdoor experiences. The area features shopping malls and sports facilities, providing ample entertainment options. Highlights include Topgolf Burlingame for some fun and Bay Club Broadway for sports enthusiasts. With its selection of wineries and restaurants nearby, Burlingame serves as a convenient and lively base for exploring the scenic beauty of the Half Moon Bay region.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Half Moon Bay

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect match 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 trip. By booking early, you're likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between 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 luxury models—may be off-limits. This could also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most cost-effective choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in those cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience it provides may outweigh the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s easy to add insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that include unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Half Moon Bay

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Half Moon Bay

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Half Moon Bay. 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 Half Moon Bay

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $35.

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.

We all love being rewarded

One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.

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