$13 Car Rental San Clemente, CA

This content is based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to highlight insights that help you plan your trip. Updated: August 13, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Clemente

Renting a car in San Clemente provides you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for travelers looking to enjoy outdoor activities, family experiences, or beach visits. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create a travel itinerary that suits your needs. Key attractions such as the San Clemente Pier, San Clemente State Beach, and Casa Romantica are all conveniently located within the city, allowing for easy access to local culture and natural beauty.

A car rental also makes it simple to visit popular nearby destinations. In just 6 miles, you can reach Dana Point, where you can explore Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach. Additionally, San Juan Capistrano is also 6 miles away, offering attractions like Mission San Juan Capistrano. If you're willing to drive a bit further, Laguna Beach is only 13 miles from San Clemente, featuring scenic spots like Treasure Island Beach and Heisler Park. With a rental car, you can enjoy these experiences without the constraints of public transportation, making your trip more enjoyable and convenient.

Most popular car rentals in San Clemente

• Fullsize: The Fullsize car is a top choice for families and groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This type of vehicle offers ample room for luggage and comfort during your travels, making it perfect for those who want to explore San Clemente and its surroundings without feeling cramped.
• Midsize: Ideal for couples and families, the Midsize option comfortably fits 5 travelers and allows for 3 large suitcases. This car type strikes a balance between space and fuel efficiency, providing a practical solution for those looking to navigate San Clemente while enjoying a bit of extra room for your belongings.
• Economy: The Economy car is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families. It accommodates up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is not only budget-friendly but also easy to maneuver, making it a great choice for exploring San Clemente while keeping your travel plans flexible and hassle-free.

Top rated car suppliers in San Clemente

• Hertz: Hertz is a popular choice for travelers in San Clemente, offering 1 rental location in the area. Known for its friendly service and clean vehicles, Hertz has an impressive overall rating of 9.2 out of 10. Customers appreciate the convenience of the location and the well-maintained fleet. The most booked vehicles with Hertz include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, making it a great option for those needing comfort and space during their travels.
• Enterprise: Enterprise boasts a strong reputation in San Clemente with 1 rental location available. Travelers often choose this supplier for its excellent customer service and flexible rental options. The most popular vehicles rented from Enterprise are Midsize and Standard cars, catering to a variety of needs for both families and solo adventurers. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Enterprise is recognized for providing a smooth and enjoyable rental experience.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another solid option for those visiting San Clemente, featuring 1 rental location in the area. Known for its competitive rates, Thrifty offers popular vehicles such as Fullsize Pickups and Midsize cars, suitable for different travel requirements. Travelers appreciate the ease of the rental process and the cleanliness of the vehicles, making Thrifty a reliable choice for your car rental needs in San Clemente.

Where to stay around San Clemente

• Laguna Beach: Located 13 miles from San Clemente, Laguna Beach is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly outdoor and beach experiences. Here, you can explore the scenic Treasure Island Beach and Thousand Steps Beach, both ideal for a relaxing beach vacation. Heisler Park offers beautiful urban park settings for family outings. The area features a variety of shopping centers and dining options, including restaurants and wineries, making it a great place to stay for beach lovers and those seeking a mix of relaxation and activities.
• Dana Point: Just 6 miles away from San Clemente, Dana Point is perfect for outdoor and family adventures. With its stunning Dana Point Harbor and tranquil Doheny State Beach, visitors can enjoy beautiful scenery while engaging in beach activities. Salt Creek Beach Park also provides excellent options for a day in the sun. The city boasts shopping centers and a range of restaurants and wineries, ensuring a well-rounded experience for travelers looking to explore Southern California's coastal charm.
• San Juan Capistrano: Situated 6 miles from San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano offers a unique blend of family, outdoor, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano and the Los Rios Historic District, both rich in cultural significance. The area also features close proximity to Dana Point Harbor, perfect for scenic views. With its shopping centers and a variety of dining options, this city is an excellent choice for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in history while enjoying family-friendly activities.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Clemente

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy 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 prices can vary based on demand, making it wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and benefit from greater availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park 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 luxury 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 rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This option is typically the most advantageous. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling 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 exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a simple process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your plans include long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid 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 San Clemente

The best time to rent a car in and around San Clemente is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. March through May see average pricing but higher demand, making them busier months. June and July are the most expensive periods, with prices rising and demand remaining steady. After July, August returns to average demand and pricing, while September tends to be less busy, with slightly high prices and lower demand.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in San Clemente

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in San Clemente

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $13.

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