$22 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.

Midsize

Nissan Sentra
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Nicoya, CRI
Nissan Sentra

$22

includes taxes & fees
$18 per day
found 20 hours ago
Midsize Nissan Sentra

Standard

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Nicoya, CRI
Toyota Corolla

$23

includes taxes & fees
$18 per day
found 20 hours ago
Standard Toyota Corolla

Special

Compact or Larger
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Nicoya, CRI
Compact or Larger

$22

includes taxes & fees
$18 per day
found 20 hours ago
Special Compact or Larger

Mini

Toyota Agya
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Nicoya, CRI
Toyota Agya

$22

includes taxes & fees
$18 per day
found 20 hours ago
Mini Toyota Agya

Compact

Hyundai Elantra
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Nicoya, CRI
Hyundai Elantra

$22

includes taxes & fees
$18 per day
found 20 hours ago
Compact Hyundai Elantra

Economy

Suzuki Swift
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Nicoya, CRI
Suzuki Swift

$22

includes taxes & fees
$18 per day
found 20 hours ago
Economy Suzuki Swift

Fullsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Nicoya, CRI
Toyota Corolla

$23

includes taxes & fees
$19 per day
found 20 hours ago
Fullsize Toyota Corolla

Premium SUV

Toyota Prado
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Nicoya, CRI
Toyota Prado

$71

includes taxes & fees
$61 per day
found 20 hours ago
Premium SUV Toyota Prado

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Lowest prices found within the past 20 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, Guanacaste, offers you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Tamarindo Beach, located 18 miles away, or the Monkey Park, just 11 miles from Santa Cruz. Additionally, the Nicoya Colonial Church, a cultural site, is conveniently situated 12 miles away. This flexibility is particularly appealing for families, allowing for easy luggage management and accommodating all your travel needs.

Moreover, a rental car enables you to explore nearby cities like Diriá, only 4 miles away, which features beautiful beaches such as Playa Potrero and Flamingo Beach. You can also visit Veintisiete de Abril, 9 miles away, known for Playa Negra and Avellanas Beach, or El Guapote, located 10 miles from Santa Cruz, offering access to Tamarindo Beach and Junquillal Beach. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly activities, renting a car makes it convenient to discover the rich offerings in and around Santa Cruz without the limitations of public transportation.

Where to stay around Santa Cruz

  • Diriá: Located 4 miles from Santa Cruz, Diriá offers a great blend of outdoor and family-friendly experiences. With nearby attractions like Tamarindo Beach, Playa Potrero, and Flamingo Beach, it's an excellent spot for beach vacations. Diriá also features resorts and golf courses, making it ideal for those seeking adventure. The local dining scene includes various restaurants that cater to different tastes, ensuring you'll have plenty of options after a day of exploration.
  • Veintisiete de Abril: Situated 9 miles from Santa Cruz, Veintisiete de Abril is perfect for families and couples seeking a romantic getaway. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, including Playa Negra, Tamarindo Beach, and Avellanas Beach, all suitable for relaxing vacations. With resorts and golf courses nearby, you'll find various activities to enjoy. The local restaurants offer a mix of dining options, including fresh seafood, making it a delightful place to stay.
  • Tempate: Located 14 miles from Santa Cruz, Tempate is a vibrant destination for adventure seekers. With easy access to stunning beaches like Coco Beach, Playa Potrero, and Flamingo Beach, it’s an ideal spot for beach lovers. The area also boasts golf courses and resorts for those looking to unwind after a day of outdoor activities. Additionally, Tempate's dining scene features several restaurants, providing a variety of food and drink options to enhance your 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 selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to pinpoint the best fit 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 in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower rates and better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested 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 some vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Certain rentals may require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is typically the most favorable option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is also acceptable. Just remember 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; however, the convenience may justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for transactions.
  8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking with Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional fees.
  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 $22.

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
$22
Our second best deal of the day
$23
Our third best deal of the day
$71
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 Santa Cruz?
The daily price of rental cars in Santa Cruz within the past seven days was as low as $22. With your own affordable set of wheels, the sights in and around this place are easily within your reach.
Can I rent a car from Daniel Oduber Intl. Airport (LIR)?
Payless and Economy are within a quick commute of Daniel Oduber Intl. Airport (LIR). After landing, it won't be long before you're hitting the open road.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Cruz car reservation?
Browse through the cancellation policy to be certain, but the majority of rentals qualify for a complete refund if you notify us more than six hours ahead of pickup. There are some exceptions though. Your booking will have more information, or just visit our Customer Service Portal.
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Cruz?
There are so many things to do in Santa Cruz, but venture farther afield and you'll find even more magic. Book a set of wheels and you can explore the surrounding region at your own speed. Add these awesome destinations to your itinerary:
  • San José is about 100 miles from Santa Cruz. Well-known sights like National Museum of Costa Rica should be high on your list here.
  • About 55 miles away, Puntarenas is also popular with wanderers. Allow time to get to Puntarenas Pier while you're here. It's one of the reasons people love this colorful city.
  • Corcovado National Park is around 180 miles from Santa Cruz and is one of the region's most scenic nature spots. Go for a wander around and enjoy the fresh air here.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
Pick up an amazing deal with Expedia. Simply choose your wheels, select your dates and pickup and drop-off locations, and browse offers from top rental brands. Save even more when you bundle your Santa Cruz car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Cruz?
Generally, all that's required is a driver's license and a credit card in the same name when collecting your vehicle. You may also need proof of coverage if you'd like to opt out of the company's insurance plan. Rules often differ between rental providers, so it's always wise to read the fine print.
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Cruz?
Based on prices within the past seven days, you could've sat in the driver's seat of your own rental car for just $22 per day. The second lowest daily rate in Santa Cruz was $23. 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 Santa Cruz?
Yes, so you won't need to rebook a rental vehicle mid-vacation. Head over to our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and secure a set of wheels to call your own for the length of your break.
Where can I find a Santa Cruz car rental if I am younger than 25?
Age policies are different between rental companies, so you'll have to do a little research. Found a Santa Cruz supplier that does rent to drivers under 25 years of age? Awesome! Just take note that extra charges often apply to drivers aged between 21 and 24. The terms and conditions of each rental car you're interested in should have all the details you need.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Santa Cruz?
For a stress-free road trip, add Expedia's collision protection to your rental car booking. This insurance covers your ride against collision damage, theft and vandalism. It also provides 24-hour emergency assistance in times of need. Opt in to this insurance while finalizing your Santa Cruz ride with Expedia and save money and time at the rental counter.
Can I drive in Santa Cruz with my current driver's license?
If you don't possess a driver's license issued in Costa Rica, then it's likely you'll need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country to be able to rent a car. Please also consider that if you do need an IDP, it won't be valid on its own. You'll be asked to show your current license your passport and other forms of identification as well. Lastly, make sure the credit card you used to book the rental matches the name on your driver's license and passport. Some other requirements for international car rentals are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be 25 or over in many countries to rent a car. If you're younger, it may 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 vehicles you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the fine print before you drive away. Typically, you can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or off road with your rental car.

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