$45 Car Rental Santa Cruz

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Top Car Deals in Santa Cruz

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

Sun, Nov 8 to Mon, Nov 9

Mini

Hyundai Eon
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Manila, PHL
Hyundai Eon

$45

includes taxes & fees
$22 per day
found 8 hours ago
Mini Hyundai Eon
Sun, Nov 8 to Mon, Nov 9

Economy

Toyota Vios
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Manila, PHL
Toyota Vios

$54

includes taxes & fees
$30 per day
found 8 hours ago
Economy Toyota Vios
Sun, Nov 8 to Mon, Nov 9

Compact Pickup Regular Cab

  • 0 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Manila, PHL

$81

includes taxes & fees
$54 per day
found 8 hours ago
Compact Pickup Regular Cab undefined
Sun, Nov 8 to Mon, Nov 9

Midsize Van

  • 0 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Manila, PHL

$92

includes taxes & fees
$64 per day
found 8 hours ago
Midsize Van undefined
Sun, Nov 8 to Mon, Nov 9

Standard Van

Toyota Innova
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Manila, PHL
Toyota Innova

$129

includes taxes & fees
$97 per day
found 8 hours ago
Standard Van Toyota Innova
Sun, Nov 8 to Mon, Nov 9

Fullsize Van

  • 0 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Manila, PHL

$133

includes taxes & fees
$101 per day
found 8 hours ago
Fullsize Van undefined

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Lowest prices found within the past 8 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Santa Cruz car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Cruz

Renting a car in Santa Cruz provides the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. This option is ideal for those looking to enjoy outdoor scenery or a romantic getaway. With a rental car, you can easily visit Pagsanjan Falls, located only 6 miles away, perfect for adventure seekers. Caliraya Lake, situated 8 miles from Santa Cruz, offers beautiful scenery and a serene atmosphere for beach lovers. If you're interested in cultural experiences, the Kamay Ni Hesus Healing Church, located 16 miles away, is also within reach.

A rental car allows you to conveniently travel to nearby cities like Pagsanjan, just 3 miles away, or Dingin, 4 miles away, where you can further explore attractions like Laguna Lake. With your own vehicle, luggage management becomes easier, and you can maintain flexible travel plans without relying on public transportation. Whether you are traveling solo, with family, or in a romantic setting, having a rental car enhances your overall experience in and around Santa Cruz.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

  • Santa Cruz: Nestled in the heart of Calabarzon, Santa Cruz offers a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. Visitors can explore local markets and enjoy the vibrant community. The area provides easy access to nearby attractions like Pagsanjan Falls and Caliraya Lake, ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views.
  • Pagsanjan: Located 3 miles away, Pagsanjan is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Here, you can experience the famous Pagsanjan Falls, a must-see for adventure seekers. The city also features shopping centers and amusement parks, making it a great spot for both leisure and fun. Dining options are plentiful, providing a taste of local cuisine.
  • Santo Angel Norte: This village within Santa Cruz is a charming destination with attractions like Laguna Lake and Caliraya Lake, both offering opportunities for relaxation and beauty. The area is suitable for romantic getaways or family outings, with various activities that embrace the natural landscape. Don't miss visiting the iconic Pagsanjan Falls during your stay.
  • Lumban: Situated 6 miles from Santa Cruz, Lumban is known for its outdoor and romantic experiences. The city features a golf course and a private country club for sports enthusiasts. Nearby attractions include Pagsanjan Falls and Caliraya Lake, making it easy to explore picturesque scenery while enjoying local parks and beaches.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Santa Cruz

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size cars strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and specific vehicle types—including SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This policy can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions 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 generally the most convenient option. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is acceptable as well—just be sure to 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 convenience may be worth the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Rental car insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when making your reservation on Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals with 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.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santa Cruz

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Santa Cruz

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $45.

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.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$45
 
Our second best deal of the day
$54
 
Our third best deal of the day
$81
 
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 Santa Cruz?
You can find cheap car rentals in Santa Cruz from $16 a day with Thrifty Car Rental's mini 2/4 door. Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental are among the more affordable options. For example, mini 2 or 4 door cars start from $16 a day, and economy 2 or 4 door cars start from $24 a day. Compare suppliers on Expedia to find a cheap car rental in Santa Cruz that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Santa Cruz.
Can I rent a car one-way in Santa Cruz?
A one-way car rental in Santa Cruz is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $27 a day. Providers like Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental may have flexible one-way policies. These are good options for one-way car rental in Santa Cruz. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Santa Cruz.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz is well suited to round-trip rentals, with round-trip rentals starting from $16 a day. Picking up and dropping off at the same location generally avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it the most cost-effective option for exploring the area and returning to the same spot. Providers like Dollar Rent A Car and Thrifty Car Rental also offer wide round-trip availability. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Santa Cruz.
What are the best car rentals in Santa Cruz?
Car rentals in Santa Cruz offer extensive vehicle variety. The car classes available include:
  • Mini 2 or 4 door
  • Economy 2 or 4 door
  • Standard passenger van
  • Standard SUV
  • Premium passenger van
Most come with automatic transmission. Families prefer SUVs or minivans for space; couples and solo travelers do fine with economy or compact cars. Choose based on passenger count, luggage needs, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Santa Cruz.

What are the best car rentals in Santa Cruz for solo travelers?
Recommended car rentals in Santa Cruz for solo travelers are mini and economy classes—small, easy to park, and cheap to run for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Mini 2 or 4 door, starting from $16 a day — fits up to 4 people and up to 2 small suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $24 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, offering a bit more room while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you're planning longer drives, consider a standard SUV for extra comfort and stability. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Santa Cruz.

What are the best car rentals in Santa Cruz for couples?
The best car rentals in Santa Cruz for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Standard SUV, starting from $43 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, offering a comfortable ride for day trips around the region
  • Midsize passenger van, starting from $53 a day — fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases, providing more space for luggage and passengers
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Santa Cruz.

What are the best car rentals in Santa Cruz for families?
The best car rentals in Santa Cruz for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear:
  • Standard SUV, starting from $43 a day — seats up to 5 people with room for 4 large suitcases, suitable for families needing extra space and comfort
  • Standard passenger van, starting from $41 a day — seats up to 8 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and passenger vans have room for the whole family plus car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them a comfortable fit for trips around Santa Cruz. Book 4+ weeks ahead, especially for the November-December peak months, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during busy periods. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Santa Cruz.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has electric and hybrid vehicle options available. Dollar Rent A Car offers hybrid vehicles starting from $16 a day, and Thrifty Car Rental also provides hybrid options starting from $16 a day. Multiple rental companies carry electric and hybrid cars, widely available on Expedia.
What is the best time to book a car in Santa Cruz?
From August, prices in Santa Cruz are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $16 a day during this period. December tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. November and December are generally the peak months for car rental demand. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Santa Cruz?
Car rentals in Santa Cruz are available from providers like Dollar Rent A Car, Thrifty Car Rental, and Europcar, offering vehicles suited to various travel needs. Dollar Rent A Car has mini and economy options that are easy to park and fuel-efficient. Thrifty Car Rental also offers mini and economy vehicles, providing good value for exploring the area. Europcar rounds out the choices with economy cars and midsize passenger vans, which offer more space for passengers and luggage. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage needs, and planned routes. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Santa Cruz.
What are good day trip destinations from Santa Cruz by rental car?
For memorable day trips from Santa Cruz, you have several excellent options within a comfortable driving distance.
  • Pagsanjan Falls, Cavinti: Located just 8 miles away, this natural wonder is perfect for adventure-seeking families and couples. The drive takes less than 30 minutes, making it an easy escape.
  • Fort Bonifacio, Taguig: Approximately 37 miles from Santa Cruz, this modern district offers urban exploration, shopping, and dining. The drive typically takes about 1 hour, ideal for business travelers or couples looking for a city experience.
  • Santa Cruz Church, Manila: A historical and cultural landmark about 44 miles away, reachable in approximately 1 hour. This destination is well-suited for solo travelers or couples interested in local heritage.
  • SM City San Lazaro Shopping Center, Manila: For those seeking retail therapy, this shopping center is around 45 miles from Santa Cruz, with a driving time of about 2 hours. It's a great option for families or couples.
  • Hidden Valley Springs: This destination, known for its natural springs, offers a relaxing retreat for those looking to unwind.
For these excursions, a standard SUV starting from $43 a day offers ample space and comfort for families and luggage, while an economy car starting from $24 a day is a budget-friendly choice for solo travelers or couples. A standard passenger van starting from $41 a day is also available for larger groups. Always ensure your rental car has enough fuel for your journey. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Santa Cruz.

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 Santa Cruz?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Santa Cruz. 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 Santa Cruz?
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 Santa Cruz?
Budget car rental in Santa Cruz can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $45. 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 Santa Cruz?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Santa Cruz. 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 Santa Cruz car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Santa Cruz?
To rent a car in Santa Cruz, 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 Santa Cruz car rental?
If you need to cancel your Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz 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.

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