$56 Car Rental Santa Cruz, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Cruz

Renting a car in Santa Cruz offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With easy luggage management, you can travel comfortably, making it an ideal choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. A rental car allows you to visit popular attractions such as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Mystery Spot, both located within Santa Cruz, and Natural Bridges State Park, perfect for beach experiences.

Additionally, having a car makes it convenient to explore nearby destinations like Capitola, which is just 4 miles away and features Capitola Beach, or the Westside Santa Cruz neighborhood that includes the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Natural Bridges State Park. You can also take a short drive to Live Oak to enjoy more of the local attractions. Renting a car not only makes your travel plans more flexible but also enhances your overall experience, enabling you to discover the beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities that Santa Cruz has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Cruz

• Economy: This car option accommodates 5 travelers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. It's an ideal choice for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking to explore Santa Cruz. Renting an economy car allows for easy maneuvering through the city while providing a budget-friendly option for those who prioritize cost-effectiveness.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families or groups, the fullsize car accommodates 5 travelers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This option offers ample space, making it perfect for those traveling with extra luggage or seeking comfort during their time in Santa Cruz. It enables a relaxed driving experience while accommodating various travel needs.
• Standard Convertible: This car type is perfect for couples or business travelers, as it seats up to 4 travelers with room for 2 medium suitcases. A standard convertible allows for an enjoyable and stylish drive around Santa Cruz, providing a unique experience to soak in the area's scenic views. It's a great option for those who want a blend of comfort and a touch of luxury.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Cruz

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travelers in Santa Cruz, known for its excellent customer service and well-maintained vehicles. With one rental location in the area, they offer a range of options, with Midsize and Compact cars being the most booked. The flexibility and reliability of Enterprise make it a great option for exploring Santa Cruz and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Hertz: Hertz stands out in Santa Cruz for its commitment to customer satisfaction and a streamlined rental experience. Also featuring one rental location, Hertz is favored for its Midsize and Economy vehicles, which cater well to both leisure and business travelers. The ease of managing your itinerary and luggage with Hertz enhances your overall experience as you discover the beauty of Santa Cruz.
• Avis: Avis offers a convenient rental experience in Santa Cruz, with one rental location available. Travelers appreciate Avis for its selection of Midsize and Economy cars, making it an ideal choice for those looking for comfortable and efficient transportation. Avis is recognized for its friendly service and straightforward rental process, ensuring you can focus on enjoying your trip.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

• Westside Santa Cruz: This vibrant neighborhood is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Westside Santa Cruz offers access to attractions such as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, ideal for adventure seekers, and Natural Bridges State Park for a scenic beach experience. Nearby Capitola Beach enhances the beach vacation vibe, while local dining options include restaurants and wineries. This area is especially enjoyable in the summer, when outdoor activities abound.
• Aptos: Located 7 miles from Santa Cruz, Aptos is known for its stunning beaches and scenic views. Visitors can explore Rio Del Mar Beach for a relaxing beach day and enjoy the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for family fun. The area is rich in outdoor activities and also features local wineries and restaurants. Aptos is a fantastic choice for a summer getaway, when visitors can fully embrace the beach ambiance.
• Capitola: Just 4 miles away from Santa Cruz, Capitola is a charming destination for families seeking outdoor adventures. Capitola Beach serves as a beautiful spot for relaxation, while the nearby Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk offers exciting amusement options. The Mystery Spot adds a touch of intrigue for those interested in cultural experiences. With plenty of local eateries and wineries, Capitola shines during the warmer months, making it a delightful place to stay.

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 vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilize filters on Expedia to help you discover 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 secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a solid balance between price, 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 can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is typically the best option. Others might have full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the convenience might make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, seek rentals that offer 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.

Best time to rent a car in and around Santa Cruz

The best time to rent a car in and around Santa Cruz is January and February, when both prices and demand are slightly low. This period offers great value for travelers, allowing for a quieter experience. The months of March and May also provide moderate prices and average demand, making them good shoulder periods. However, things can get busier and pricier in July and August, which are typically the most expensive months with slightly high demand.

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 $56.

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