Car Rental San Mateo

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Top Car Deals in San Mateo

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

Economy

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

Compact

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

Midsize

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

SUV

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

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What you need to know for your San Mateo car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Mateo

Renting a car in San Mateo offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful attractions in and around the village at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit nearby Playa Santa Marianita, located just 2 miles away, perfect for enjoying beach experiences. If you're interested in sports, the Umiña Tennis Club, situated 4 miles from San Mateo, provides a great opportunity to engage in tennis activities. For those who appreciate culture, the Museo del Banco Central, located 6 miles away, is an excellent destination to dive into the local history. A rental car also makes it convenient to explore the vibrant city of Manta, featuring attractions like Avenida Malecón and the Central Bank Museum. You can also venture to nearby Santa Marianita and Buena Vista, both offering unique experiences, from Cerro El Cabuya to Murciélago Beach. Traveling with family or friends? You’ll find it easy to manage your luggage and plan spontaneous outings. Renting a car in San Mateo is ideal for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting to take in the stunning scenery without the constraints of public transport.

Where to stay around San Mateo

  • San Mateo: Located within the vibrant city of Manta, San Mateo is an ideal spot for those seeking beach and outdoor adventures. With close proximity to key attractions like Avenida Malecón and Playita Mía Artisanal Shipyard, visitors can easily enjoy the local culture and scenic views. The area is perfect for families looking to explore the beach and enjoy outdoor activities.
  • Santa Marianita: Just 4 miles away from San Mateo, Santa Marianita is a charming seaside destination popular for its beautiful beach and outdoor family experiences. Travelers can visit attractions such as Umiña Tennis Club and Cerro El Cabuya for scenic views. This neighborhood offers a relaxed atmosphere, making it a great choice for those looking to unwind by the ocean.
  • Parroquia Tarqui: Situated 7 miles from San Mateo, Parroquia Tarqui is known for its beachfront access and outdoor activities. The area features local landmarks like Avenida Malecón and Playita Mía Artisanal Shipyard, which are perfect for cultural exploration. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty and laid-back vibe, making it a wonderful choice for those seeking a tranquil getaway.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best option 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to secure better rates and a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old 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 70 years old. 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 favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can be convenient as well. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may encounter a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but this added convenience might be worth 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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is simple.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra charges.
  10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in San Mateo

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in San Mateo

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

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.

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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

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SUV, Full Size, Economy
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Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in San Mateo?
Rental cars in San Mateo had a low daily rate of just within the past seven days. At prices like this, you'll be zipping around in your own set of wheels with money to spare.
Can I rent a car from Eloy Alfaro Intl. Airport (MEC)?
Avis is a short commute from the terminal and the only car rental option. Book your vehicle as soon as you can to avoid missing out.
What happens if I need to cancel my San Mateo car reservation?
Canceling a prepaid car booking with at least six hours notice should allow for your money back. However, this is not always a given. It's a good idea to scan your itinerary and cancellation policy. Still need help? Jump onto our Customer Service Portal.
Where can I go on a road trip from San Mateo?
Once you've been to all of the great places in San Mateo, there's heaps more to explore in the region. Grab the keys to a rental car, toss your luggage in the trunk and get on the road. We've come up with some drives we think you'll enjoy:
  • You'll discover El Paseo Shopping La Peninsula and lots more intriguing attractions in La Libertad. From San Mateo, it's roughly 90 miles away.
  • Why not see everything on offer in Quevedo too? Notable attractions in this colorful city include Quevedo Shopping Center. Quevedo is approximately 95 miles from San Mateo.
  • El Panecillo is approximately 170 miles from San Mateo and is one of the region's most scenic nature spots. Stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh air here.
How do I find the best car rental deals in San Mateo with Expedia?
Whatever type of ride you're after, Expedia will help you nab the best deal. Simply compare offers from reliable rental suppliers and book the option that's perfect for you. Want to drive away with even bigger savings? Bundle your San Mateo car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
What do you need to rent a car in San Mateo?
Be prepared to present a valid driver's license and a credit card when you get to the rental counter. Before pickup, check with your rental supplier whether other documentation is needed. For example, you may also need to provide proof of insurance.
What is the cheapest car rental in San Mateo?
The lowest rate for a car rental in San Mateo within the past seven days was per day. The second best deal snapped up by happy travelers was . 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 Mateo?
Yes, and you'll find your perfect ride on our long-term car rental deals page. Just enter your trip dates and we'll show you awesome options from various quality providers.
Where can I find a San Mateo car rental if I am younger than 25?
You'll need to look up the age policy of the San Mateo rental suppliers you're interested in. If you're under 25 years old, be mindful that some will charge additional costs. It's good to know this ahead of time so you can tailor your budget accordingly. Every rental car company has its own terms and conditions for young drivers, so be sure to do your research.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in San Mateo?
For a smooth, stress-free adventure, add Expedia's collision protection to your rental car booking. This insurance covers your vehicle against collision damage, theft and vandalism. It also provides customers with 24-hour emergency help in times of need. Opt in to this plan while finalizing your San Mateo ride with Expedia and save time and money at the rental desk.
Can I drive in San Mateo with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license issued in Ecuador, then it's likely you'll need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your place of residence to be able to rent a car. It's also important to note that if an IDP is required, it has no validity on its own. You'll need to show your current driver's license your passport and other forms of ID as well. Lastly, make sure the credit card you used to book the rental vehicle matches the name on your license and passport. A few other things to note for international car rentals are:
  • Age restrictions: You must be at least 25 in most countries to rent a car. If you're younger, 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 what kinds of cars you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Make sure you read the rules and regulations before getting behind the wheel. Typically, you can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or on off-road areas with a rental vehicle.

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