Car Rental San Clemente

Search and Compare from Car Companies in San Clemente

I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

Top Car Deals in San Clemente

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
San Clemente, Manabí, ECU
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
San Clemente, Manabí, ECU
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
San Clemente, Manabí, ECU
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
San Clemente, Manabí, ECU
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in San Clemente
View all cars

What you need to know for your San Clemente car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Clemente

Renting a car in San Clemente offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create travel plans that suit your needs. This is especially beneficial for those seeking beach and outdoor adventure experiences. Within a short drive, you can visit San Jacinto Beach, located only 2 miles away, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. For a cultural experience, head to Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Church, just 8 miles from San Clemente. If you're interested in artisanal crafts, Playita Mía Artisanal Shipyard is 19 miles away and worth the trip. Additionally, you can explore nearby cities such as San Jacinto, 1 mile away, and El Pueblito, 5 miles away, both featuring attractions like the scenic Baha de Caraquez Beach. Renting a car makes it convenient to visit these destinations and enjoy everything the region has to offer without the constraints of public transportation. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or solo, having a rental car enhances your sightseeing experience in and around San Clemente.

Where to stay around San Clemente

  • San Clemente: Nestled within Charapoto, San Clemente offers a serene beach experience perfect for relaxation. The nearby family beaches provide ideal spots for families looking to enjoy the sun and sand. Additionally, visitors can explore local shopping options at nearby shopping centers to enrich their stay.
  • Charapoto: As the city where San Clemente is situated, Charapoto is a gateway to stunning outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. You can visit the famous San Jacinto Beach or Baha de Caraquez Beach, both renowned for their suitability for beach vacations. Cultural enthusiasts can explore Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Church, adding a layer of history to your trip.
  • Crucita: Located 7 miles from San Clemente, Crucita is known for its adventurous beach experiences. Travelers can partake in outdoor activities and visit the beautiful San Jacinto Beach. The Playita Mía Artisanal Shipyard is another local attraction worth checking out, providing an insight into the region's culture and craftsmanship.
  • Bahia de Caraquez: Situated 13 miles away from San Clemente, Bahia de Caraquez is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and outdoor adventures. With a plethora of beaches like Canoa Beach and Baha de Caraquez Beach, you can enjoy vibrant beach life. The area is also known for birdwatching and offers various coffee spots to relax after a day of exploration.

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’re in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often secures lower rates and provides better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver 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 surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure the car is returned 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: Many 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 in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra 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 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 .

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.

Car Rental Information

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
Our second best deal of the day
Our third best deal of the day
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in San Clemente?
You can find cheap car rentals in San Clemente from $14 a day with Fox Rental Cars's mini 4-5 door cars. Europcar has economy 4-5 door cars starting from $14 a day and mini 4-5 door cars starting from $15 a day. Avis also offers compact 4-5 door cars starting from $14 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a car rental deal in San Clemente that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in San Clemente.
What are the best luxury car companies in San Clemente?
For luxury car rental in San Clemente, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Europcar and Avis. Europcar offers luxury SUVs starting from $70 a day, providing comfort and advanced features for your travels. Avis also offers premium SUVs starting from $153 a day, which are ideal for those seeking a higher-end driving experience. These luxury vehicles offer enhanced comfort and features for a more sophisticated trip. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in San Clemente.
Can I rent a car one-way in San Clemente?
Yes, a one-way car rental in San Clemente is available and can be an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $16 a day. This allows you to pick up your vehicle in San Clemente and drop it off at a different location, offering flexibility for your travel plans. Providers like Europcar and Avis often have flexible one-way policies, making it convenient to plan your journey. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in San Clemente.
Can I rent a car round-trip in San Clemente?
Yes, San Clemente is well-suited for round-trip car rentals, with options starting from $14 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location generally helps you avoid one-way drop-off fees, making it a cost-effective choice for exploring the area. This is ideal for visiting nearby attractions such as San Jacinto Beach, Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Church, and Los Frailes Beach, and then returning to San Clemente. Providers like Europcar and Avis offer wide round-trip availability for your convenience. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in San Clemente.
What are the best car rentals in San Clemente?
Car rentals in San Clemente offer a wide variety of vehicle types to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Economy 4-5 door
  • Mini 4-5 door
  • Compact 4-5 door
  • Midsize 4-5 door
  • Midsize crossover
These options provide flexibility for various trips. For instance, economy and compact cars are great for easy city navigation and fuel efficiency, while midsize cars and midsize SUVs offer more space and comfort for families or longer journeys. Many vehicles come with manual transmission, and you can choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and your preferred driving experience. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in San Clemente.
What are the best car rentals in San Clemente for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in San Clemente for solo travelers are typically smaller, more agile vehicles that are easy to manage and fuel-efficient.
  • Economy 4-5 door cars, starting from $14 a day—these are nimble for city streets and simple to park, fitting up to 5 people and 2 medium suitcases
  • Compact 4-5 door cars, starting from $16 a day—offering a bit more room for luggage with space for up to 5 people and 3 medium suitcases, while remaining fuel-efficient
Both options provide comfortable seating for a solo traveler and their belongings. If you plan on longer scenic drives to destinations like Los Frailes Beach, consider sizing up to a midsize crossover, starting from $28 a day, for enhanced comfort and a higher ride. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in San Clemente.
What are the best car rentals in San Clemente for couples?
The best car rentals in San Clemente for couples offer a balance of comfort and practicality for two people exploring the area.
  • Midsize 4-5 door cars, starting from $17 a day—these provide smooth cruising and ample space for up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases
  • Midsize crossover vehicles, starting from $28 a day—offering a higher ride and comfortable seating for up to 5 people and 3 large suitcases, ideal for day trips
Both options ensure a comfortable journey with enough trunk space for a couple's luggage. For a special experience, consider a luxury SUV, starting from $70 a day, for enhanced comfort and features on your adventures around San Clemente. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in San Clemente.
What are the best car rentals in San Clemente for families?
The best car rentals in San Clemente for families prioritize space, comfort, and convenience for everyone and their luggage.
  • Fullsize SUVs, starting from $31 a day—these vehicles comfortably seat up to 6 people and can accommodate 3 large or 5 medium suitcases, along with car seats
  • Midsize SUVs, starting from $52 a day—offering seating for up to 5 people and space for 3 large suitcases, perfect for families with children and their gear
SUVs are popular with families and provide ample room for passengers, car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them ideal for exploring San Clemente and beyond. It is wise to book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the peak months of December and July, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during these busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in San Clemente.
What is the best time to book a car in San Clemente?
From January, prices for car rentals in San Clemente are typically lower, with economy 4-5 door cars starting from as little as $14 a day during this period. December and July tend to be the busiest months, when higher demand can lead to increased prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Demand often climbs as travelers head to popular spots and activities such as:
  • San Jacinto Beach
  • Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Church
  • Los Frailes Beach
Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so you can book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in San Clemente?
Car rental suppliers in San Clemente include well-known providers like Europcar, Avis, and Alamo Rent A Car, each offering a range of vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Europcar provides options such as economy 4-5 door cars starting from $14 a day, which are great for city driving, and fullsize SUVs starting from $31 a day for more space. Avis offers compact 4-5 door cars starting from $14 a day, along with standard SUVs starting from $74 a day for those needing more robust vehicles. Alamo Rent A Car features economy 2 or 4 door cars starting from $17 a day and compact SUVs starting from $37 a day. Choosing a vehicle with higher clearance or an SUV can be beneficial for exploring diverse terrains, while compact cars offer better maneuverability and fuel efficiency for urban exploration. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in San Clemente.
What are good day trip destinations from San Clemente by rental car?
San Clemente offers several excellent day trip destinations reachable by rental car, catering to various interests.
  • San Jacinto Beach, approximately 5 miles away, is perfect for a relaxing coastal visit
  • Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Church, about 6 miles away, offers a cultural stop
  • Los Frailes Beach, approximately 60 miles away, is a beautiful natural escape
  • Mindo Cloud Forest Private Tour: Chocolate, Coffee, Birds, Nature, provides an immersive nature experience
  • Quilotoa Lagoon Full-Day Tour from Quito with Entrance Fees daily, offers a scenic adventure
These destinations are easily accessible with most car types, though an SUV might offer more comfort for longer drives or unpaved sections. Always fuel up before heading out and consider bringing water and snacks for your journey. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in San Clemente.
Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in San Clemente?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in San Clemente. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in San Clemente?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in San Clemente?
Budget car rental in San Clemente can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days . To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in San Clemente?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in San Clemente. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your San Clemente car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in San Clemente?
To rent a car in San Clemente, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my San Clemente car rental?
If you need to cancel your San Clemente car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in San Clemente with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia