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.

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Santa Cruz, Nayarit, MEX
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Santa Cruz, Nayarit, MEX
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Santa Cruz, Nayarit, MEX
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Santa Cruz, Nayarit, MEX
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

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What you need to know for your Santa Cruz car rental

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

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 .

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

Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
Car suppliers available
Our best deal of the day
Our second best deal of the day
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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?
Affordable car rentals started at per day in Santa Cruz, based on prices within the past seven days. With rates like this, we make it easy to pick up some keys and hit the road for less.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Cruz car reservation?
We all have times when plans suddenly change. That's why we offer a full refund on many prepaid bookings if you let us know a minimum of six hours before the scheduled collection time. Be sure to double-check your rental policy — there are some instances where it's not included. Can't find anything there? Our Customer Service Portal has more information.
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 more sightseeing magic. Pick up a set of wheels and you can wander around the greater area at your own pace. Add these fantastic destinations to your travel plan:
  • Make tracks to Puerto Vallarta for an excellent sightseeing adventure. Around 55 miles from Santa Cruz, it has numerous amazing sights, including Malecon.
  • Around 50 miles away, Nuevo Vallarta is also a favorite with travelers. Be sure to get to Nuevo Vallarta Beach while you're in town. It's one of the reasons people love staying a while in this vibrant city.
  • Venture into nature and breathe in some fresh air at Olas Altas Beach. It's about 140 miles from Santa Cruz.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
It's easy to find an amazing deal with Expedia. Simply choose your car type, select your dates and preferred pickup and drop-off locations, and compare offers from trusted brands. Make even bigger savings when you combine your Santa Cruz car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Santa Cruz?
Usually, the requirement is 21 years of age and over in Santa Cruz. It should be noted that most outlets will charge additional fees for young renters. Do your research before you book, as rules may differ between rental car providers. Keep in mind that if you want to rent a specialty vehicle or a large car like an SUV, drivers may need to be older than 21.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Cruz?
While booking conditions may differ between outlets, the essentials are a valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name. You don't need to take out the company's insurance plan. However, proof of your own coverage may be necessary.
What side of the road do you drive on in Santa Cruz?
Cruising around Santa Cruz may feel like second nature to drivers from the States. This destination, and the rest of Mexico, sticks to the right.
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Cruz?
and were the cheapest daily prices picked up by car renters in Santa Cruz within the past seven days. 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. Expedia partners with quality suppliers that offer long-term rentals for a wide range of cars. Pick up one of our long-term car rental deals and discover every turn of Santa Cruz — or beyond!
Where can I find a Santa Cruz car rental if I am younger than 25?
This depends on the car rental companies that operate in Santa Cruz. They often have different policies when it comes to minimum ages. If you've found a supplier that does cater to drivers under 25, take note that additional fees may apply. Conduct some research into what those charges could be before picking up the keys to your vehicle.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Santa Cruz?
It's a good idea to add collision damage protection while reserving your Santa Cruz car rental with Expedia. This covers your vehicle against theft, vandalism and collision damage throughout your vacation. Offering up to $35,000 in primary coverage and round-the-clock emergency help, you can get into the driver's seat knowing you'll be covered for possible mishaps. It's easy to opt in to this plan while making your booking.
Can I drive in Santa Cruz with my current driver's license?
If you don't have a driver's license issued in Mexico, then you may need to apply for an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your place of residence to be allowed to rent a car. It's also important to note that if an IDP is required, it won't be valid on its own. You'll be asked to show your driver's license from your home country 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 driver's license and passport. Some other requirements to rent a car internationally are:
  • Age restrictions: You'll need to be at least 25 in many countries to rent a car. If you're younger than that, 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 you drive away. Typically, you can't cross country borders, drive onto ferries or go off-roading with your rental car.

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