$42 Car Rental Santa Cruz

These Santa Cruz insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 18, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Cruz

Renting a car in Santa Cruz provides the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Plaza 24 de Septiembre and San Lorenzo Cathedral, both rich in cultural experiences. The flexibility of having a car allows you to manage your luggage conveniently and plan your travel itinerary without the constraints of public transportation. Families will find it especially beneficial, as you can leave behind strollers and other necessities in the trunk while you enjoy the sights. Beyond the city, destinations like Colinas del Urubo, just a short drive away, offer additional cultural experiences with attractions like the Ethno-folkloric Museum. For those looking to venture further, Warnes is located 19 miles away, featuring Play Land Amusement Park and other family-friendly spots. El Torno, 20 miles from Santa Cruz, invites you to explore Lomas de Arena Regional Park and more. Overall, renting a car in Santa Cruz enhances your travel experience with convenience, flexibility, and the ability to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Cruz

• Economy: This car type accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. It's an ideal choice for solo travelers, couples, or families looking to explore Santa Cruz comfortably and affordably. The Economy option allows for easy maneuvering through the city while providing adequate space for your luggage, making it a popular choice among renters.
• Midsize: Accommodating 5 travelers with room for up to 3 large suitcases, the Midsize option is perfect for couples or families who need a little extra space. This car type offers a balance between comfort and practicality, making it a favored choice for those who plan to travel around Santa Cruz with more luggage. Enjoy the freedom to explore with this versatile vehicle.
• Mini: Ideal for up to 4 travelers and capable of holding 2 small suitcases, the Mini option is best suited for solo travelers or couples. This compact car is perfect for navigating the bustling streets of Santa Cruz, providing a nimble driving experience while still accommodating your travel essentials. Its popularity stems from its efficiency and ease of use in urban settings.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Cruz

• Europcar: With 2 rental locations in the Santa Cruz area, Europcar is a popular choice among travelers seeking flexibility. Known for its reliable service, the most booked vehicles include Economy and Midsize SUVs, making it easy to navigate the city and surrounding attractions. Renting from Europcar allows you to manage your luggage with ease and adjust your travel plans as needed, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience in Santa Cruz.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

• Colinas del Urubo: This charming village offers a family-friendly, city-themed, and business-themed experience. Located within Santa Cruz, it features a shopping center and resort for your convenience. Nearby attractions include the botanical garden and cultural sites like the Ethno-folkloric Museum and the Guarani Nandereko Nomai Art and Culture Center. For those looking to immerse themselves in local culture, Plaza 24 de Septiembre is a must-see, providing a lovely piazza atmosphere for relaxation and exploration.
• Warnes: Situated 19 miles from Santa Cruz, Warnes is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The city boasts a variety of shopping centers and malls, making it a convenient choice for travelers. Highlights include the Play Land Amusement Park, perfect for adventure seekers, as well as the Ethno-folkloric Museum for culture aficionados. Don't miss the Municipal Library, a great spot for families to enjoy some quiet time. The nearby botanical garden and cathedral add to the city's charm.
• El Torno: Located 20 miles from Santa Cruz, El Torno is a captivating city known for its natural parks. Nature lovers can explore the Lomas de Arena Regional Park or enjoy the stunning Las Cuevas waterfall, both perfect for outdoor adventures and romantic getaways. For those interested in the arts, Artecampo offers cultural experiences. El Torno's serene environment makes it a wonderful retreat for travelers looking to connect with nature.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendliness, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the perfect option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary with demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and better availability, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles tend to be more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good balance of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This age restriction can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Other rentals may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may be worth it.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning extensive 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 February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average, making it a great value. Additionally, October can also offer good rates with slightly low prices and demand. As spring approaches, March sees a rise in demand and prices, while May is the most expensive month for rentals with slightly high prices and average demand. June through August generally hold steady demand and average pricing.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
April	74.5°F (23.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	70.2°F (21.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	67.8°F (19.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
July	68.5°F (20.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	72.9°F (22.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
September	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
December	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

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 $42.

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