$48 Car Rental Petaluma, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Petaluma

Renting a car in Petaluma offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions like the Petaluma Arts Center for cultural experiences, the Sonoma County Wildlife Rescue for outdoor adventures, and the Petaluma Historical Library & Museum to delve into local history. The convenience of having your own vehicle allows for easy luggage management and the ability to create flexible travel plans. You can also venture to nearby cities such as Santa Rosa, located 15 miles away, where you can find the Sonoma County Fairgrounds and the Charles M. Schulz Museum. A short drive of 11 miles takes you to Sonoma, home to Sonoma Plaza and the Napa Valley Wine Train. Additionally, Rohnert Park, just 9 miles from Petaluma, features attractions like the Spreckels Performing Arts Center. Whether you are seeking outdoor scenery or cultural experiences, renting a car in and around Petaluma enhances your travel experience by providing the convenience to explore a variety of destinations effortlessly.

Most popular car rentals in Petaluma

• Midsize: This car option accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. It's an ideal choice for couples or families looking to explore Petaluma at their own pace. The midsize car offers a balance of comfort and space, making it perfect for those who want flexibility in their travel plans while managing luggage easily.
• Luxury: If you're seeking a premium experience, the luxury car option is a fantastic choice. It accommodates 5 travelers and offers space for up to 4 large suitcases. This option is ideal for business travelers, couples, or small groups who appreciate comfort and style during their journeys around Petaluma. With a luxury vehicle, you can enjoy a sophisticated ride while exploring the region.
• Fullsize: The fullsize car option is perfect for families or groups, accommodating 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for those needing extra luggage capacity while enjoying their travels. With the fullsize car, you have the room to comfortably navigate the attractions and scenic drives around Petaluma.

Top rated car suppliers in Petaluma

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice for travelers in Petaluma, offering a convenient rental location in the area. Known for its reliable service, Hertz provides a selection of vehicles that cater to different needs. The most booked options include Midsize and Economy cars, which are perfect for those looking to explore the city and surrounding attractions with comfort and efficiency. With a strong reputation for quality and customer satisfaction, Hertz is a solid option for your car rental needs.
• Enterprise: Enterprise stands out for its commitment to customer service, boasting a rental location in Petaluma. Travelers appreciate the friendly staff and flexible rental options available. The most popular vehicles among customers are Midsize and Fullsize cars, ideal for families or groups needing extra space. Enterprise is known for smooth check-in processes and a wide selection of well-maintained vehicles, making it a reliable choice for those looking to enjoy their trip without hassle.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another excellent supplier in Petaluma, featuring a rental location that makes access easy for travelers. This supplier is favored for its competitive offerings, particularly Fullsize Pickup and Midsize vehicles, which are well-suited for those planning outdoor adventures or traveling with larger groups. Thrifty is appreciated for its straightforward rental process and customer-friendly service, ensuring that your car rental experience is enjoyable and efficient during your stay.

Where to stay around Petaluma

• Santa Rosa: Located 15 miles from Petaluma, Santa Rosa offers a delightful outdoor and romantic experience, showcasing stunning scenery. Travelers can explore attractions such as the Sonoma County Fairgrounds, perfect for family outings, and the Charles M. Schulz Museum, ideal for culture enthusiasts. The Petrified Forest provides a unique adventure opportunity, while nearby wineries and restaurants enhance the local culinary scene. This city is particularly charming in the spring and fall when outdoor activities are most enjoyable.
• Sonoma: Situated 11 miles from Petaluma, Sonoma is known for its outdoor, city-themed, and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of Sonoma Plaza, a cultural hub, or enjoy the thrill of the Sonoma Raceway for some motor racing excitement. The Napa Valley Wine Train offers a historic glimpse into the region's wine culture. With an array of wineries and restaurants, Sonoma's vibrant scene is best experienced during the warmer months when outdoor dining is at its peak.
• Rohnert Park: Only 9 miles away from Petaluma, Rohnert Park combines city charm with romantic outdoor experiences. The Spreckels Performing Arts Center provides cultural events, while the nearby Sonoma County Fairgrounds is suited for family fun. The Charles M. Schulz Museum also draws visitors interested in culture. With plenty of wineries and restaurants nearby, this city is a great spot for those looking to explore local flavors, especially in the spring and summer when outdoor events flourish.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Petaluma

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy 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 vary with demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in lower rates and improves your chances of availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Typically, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to navigate in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Other agreements may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well. Just remember to 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 may make it worthwhile.
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 unexpected costs and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's easy to add rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take 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 license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Petaluma

The best time to rent a car in and around Petaluma is January, when prices and demand are both slightly low, making it a great value. February also offers similar conditions, with slightly low prices and average demand. April and May can be good options as well, as they feature average prices and slightly low demand. However, July and August tend to be the most expensive months, with high demand and higher prices overall.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	51.1°F (10.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	52.5°F (11.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	59.7°F (15.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	65.8°F (18.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	66.6°F (19.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	62.8°F (17.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.0°F (12.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	49.8°F (9.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Petaluma

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Petaluma

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $48.

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