Car Rental San Diego

Search and Compare from Car Companies in San Diego

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in San Diego

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

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in San Diego
View all cars

What you need to know for your San Diego car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Diego

Renting a car in San Diego is an excellent choice for those seeking adventure, culture, and nature. With a rental car, you gain the freedom to explore attractions at your own pace, making it easy to manage your luggage and maintain flexible travel plans. You can visit the Morro da Vargem Zen Monastery, located 30 miles away, or delve into history at the Historical Museum of Aimores, just 28 miles from San Diego. For nature enthusiasts, the Santa Teresa Ecotourism Park, also 30 miles away, offers a fantastic outdoor experience. Moreover, a rental car allows you to conveniently explore nearby neighborhoods like Colatina Centro and São Silvano, both within 2 miles, where you can discover more cultural and natural sights. The accessibility of these areas makes it simple to visit multiple attractions in a single day. Whether you are a cultural explorer, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, renting a car provides the convenience and flexibility to make the most of your time in and around San Diego.

Most popular car rentals around San Diego

  • Midsize SUV: This car type is highly popular among travelers in San Diego, fitting up to 5 passengers and accommodating up to 3 large suitcases. It is an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups looking for space and comfort. The midsize SUV offers the versatility needed for exploring the beautiful surroundings of San Diego while providing ample room for luggage and adventure gear. With its robust design and higher seating position, it allows for a more commanding view of the road, enhancing your driving experience.
  • Economy: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the economy car is another frequently booked option in San Diego. It fits 5 travelers and provides room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is great for those looking for a budget-friendly choice without compromising on comfort. An economy car is easy to navigate through city streets and park in tight spaces, making it a practical choice for exploring San Diego at your own pace. Enjoy the flexibility this option offers while managing your travel plans effortlessly.

Top rated car suppliers around San Diego

  • Localiza: Localiza is the most popular car rental option in and around San Diego, with a rental location just 1.0 mile away. Travelers appreciate the flexibility that comes with renting a car, allowing them to explore attractions at their own pace. The most booked vehicles with Localiza include Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, making it suitable for various travel needs. With its convenient location and a solid selection of vehicles, Localiza provides a reliable choice for visitors looking to enhance their experience in San Diego.

Where to go around San Diego

  • Colatina Centro: Located 2 miles away from San Diego, Colatina Centro is a vibrant district known for its beach experiences. Visitors often flock here for festivals and live music, especially during peak months like March, May, and December. Notable attractions include the serene Mosteiro Zen Morro da Virgem, perfect for cultural vacations, and the beautiful Santa Teresa Ecotourism Park, ideal for outdoor adventures. The Historical Museum of Aimores also offers insights into local history, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers.
  • São Silvano: A mere 0.5 miles from San Diego, São Silvano is an engaging district that sees heightened visitor numbers in January and during the summer months of July and August. Explore the cultural charm of Mosteiro Zen Morro da Virgem and learn about the region's past at the Historical Museum of Aimores. For those seeking outdoor activities, the Santa Teresa Ecotourism Park provides eco-friendly adventures, making São Silvano a fantastic base for your explorations.
  • Colatina Velha: Situated 2 miles away from San Diego, Colatina Velha is moderately seasonal with peak visits in February to March and November. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere at Mosteiro Zen Morro da Virgem or engage with nature at Santa Teresa Ecotourism Park, which is perfect for eco-conscious travelers. The Historical Museum of Aimores adds a cultural touch, offering a glimpse into the area's heritage and making Colatina Velha a worthwhile destination for your stay.

10 tips to save on your San Diego car hire

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, use the filters on Expedia to help you find the perfect match for your needs.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re likely to secure better rates and a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a great balance of 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 luxury models—might not be available. This also applies 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 additional charges. This is often the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which are also acceptable, but ensure you return the car with an empty tank in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at an airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payments.
  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 journey. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rental options that include unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary in order to rent a car.

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

How much is a rental car per day in San Diego?
Exciting road trip adventures in San Diego await, with daily car rental rates starting from as little as . That's based on prices found within the past seven days.
What happens if I need to cancel my San Diego car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours in advance of the scheduled collection time, the majority of prepaid bookings offer a complete refund. However, not every one is eligible for this, so it's important to familiarize yourself with your cancellation policy. Check your confirmation for the specifics or click through to our Customer Service Portal for more information.
Where can I go on a road trip from San Diego?
San Diego is full of fun adventures, but don't limit yourself to one place. Book a set of wheels and take to the road to see what's in the wider region. Here are some great options:

  • You'll find Garoto Chocolate Factory and countless other interesting attractions in Vitoria. From San Diego, it's around 60 miles away.
  • Roughly 95 miles away, Governador Valadares is also popular with travelers. Be sure to check out Pico Da Ibituruna Lookout while you're here. It's one of the reasons people love coming to this city.
  • Visit Serra do Cipo National Park to feel grounded in nature. Take a picnic to enjoy or just chill out in the fresh air. From San Diego, it's around 190 miles away.

How do I find the best car rental deals in San Diego with Expedia?
Whatever class of wheels you want, Expedia will help you score the best deal. Just compare the offers from top rental providers and pick the option that suits you. Want to drive away with even bigger savings? Bundle your San Diego car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in San Diego?
The youngest age you can rent a vehicle in San Diego is 21. An extra fee for young drivers typically applies, so check before you book and budget for any additional costs. There could also be restrictions on the types of cars available to young drivers. For example, some providers will only rent out small to medium-sized cars to young motorists. Rules may differ between providers, so read the fine print carefully.
What do you need to rent a car in San Diego?
In most cases, all you'll need is a driver's license and credit card in your name when collecting the keys to your vehicle. You may also need your own proof of coverage if you'd like to opt out of the company's insurance policy. These requirements may differ between rental outlets, so it's a good idea to check before you book.
What side of the road do you drive on in San Diego?
As in the U.S, stick to the right in Brazil. However, that doesn't mean that all road rules are the same. Read up on the local traffic laws before you hit the road in San Diego.
What is the cheapest car rental in San Diego?
and were the lowest daily prices picked up by rental car customers in San Diego within the past seven days. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in San Diego?
You can. We partner with trusted providers that offer long-term rentals for all types of cars. Check out our long-term car rental deals and explore every turn of San Diego — or far beyond!
Where can I find a San Diego car rental if I am younger than 25?
The ability to rent a vehicle if you are under 25 years old in San Diego often depends on the rental provider you choose. Some places apply a surcharge for customers aged between 21 and 24 years, whereas other companies may not apply any extra costs for this age range. Ensure you understand the terms and conditions of your preferred rental company to escape any surprise charges when picking up your keys.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in San Diego?
A comprehensive insurance plan is a great idea for your San Diego getaway. That's why we recommend adding collision protection while booking your rental car with Expedia. This covers your vehicle from theft, accident damage and vandalism. Some destinations may require a minimum level of liability insurance. This may already be included in your rental price or your personal auto insurance, so check what you're covered for and if you need it.
Can I drive in San Diego with my current driver's license?
If you don't possess a driver's license issued in Brazil, then you may need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country to be able to rent a car. Also consider that if you do need an IDP, it has no validity on its own. You'll have to show your current driver's license your passport and other forms of identification as well. Lastly, it's important that the credit card you used to book the rental matches the name on your license and passport. Some added requirements to rent a car internationally are:

  • Age restrictions: You need to be at least 25 in most places to rent a car. If you're younger than that, it might still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of cars you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Make sure you read the fine print before you drive away. Usually, you can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or off road with your rental car.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia