Title: Santa Maria Car Rental - Free Cancellation Options - Expedia.com [Santa Maria Travel Guide](https://expedia.com/Santa-Maria.dx6084955)[Hotels in Santa Maria](https://expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Hotels.d6084955.Travel-Guide-Hotels)[Flights to Santa Maria](https://expedia.com/Cheap-Flights-To-Santa-Maria.d6084955.Travel-Guide-Flights)[Things to do in Santa Maria](https://expedia.com/Things-To-Do-In-Santa-Maria.d6084955.Travel-Guide-Activities)[Santa Maria Vacation Packages](https://expedia.com/Santa-Maria.d6084955.Destination-Travel-Guides) ![](https://images.trvl-media.com/place/6084955/a6b54605-e079-42ee-a9d8-859dc61cfb30.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=1200&h=300&q=medium) # Car Rental Santa Maria ## Search and Compare from Car Companies in Santa Maria ## Featured car rental suppliers Compare from agencies ![car suppliers logo](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2022/02/16/car-suppliers-logo-desktop.jpg) - ![protection illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__protection.svg) ### Change your mind Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals - ![trophy illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__trophy.svg) ### Treat yourself One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals [Learn about One Key](https://www.expedia.com/welcome-one-key) - ![package illustration](https://a.travel-assets.com/travel-assets-manager/pictogram-bex/light__package.svg) ### Shop smart Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save ## Top Car Deals in Santa Maria \* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices. ### Economy Chevrolet Spark or similar - 4 people Santa Maria, CPV ![Chevrolet Spark](//images.trvl-media.com/media/content/shared/images/car/Common_90X50/US_EC.png) [](https://expedia.com/carsearch?paandi=true&fdrp=1&styp=2&dagv=1&subm=1&locn=Santa%20Maria,%20Sal,%20Cape%20Verde&dpln=6084955&date1=4/10/2026&date2=4/12/2026&crfrr=defaultFlex&SearchType=Place&selCC=[%22economy%22]) ### Compact Ford Focus or similar - 4 people Santa Maria, CPV ![Ford Focus](//images.trvl-media.com/media/content/shared/images/car/Common_90X50/US_CC.png) [](https://expedia.com/carsearch?paandi=true&fdrp=1&styp=2&dagv=1&subm=1&locn=Santa%20Maria,%20Sal,%20Cape%20Verde&dpln=6084955&date1=4/10/2026&date2=4/12/2026&crfrr=defaultFlex&SearchType=Place&selCC=[%22compact%22]) ### Midsize Toyota Corolla or similar - 5 people Santa Maria, CPV ![Toyota Corolla](//images.trvl-media.com/media/content/shared/images/car/Common_90X50/US_IC.png) [](https://expedia.com/carsearch?paandi=true&fdrp=1&styp=2&dagv=1&subm=1&locn=Santa%20Maria,%20Sal,%20Cape%20Verde&dpln=6084955&date1=4/10/2026&date2=4/12/2026&crfrr=defaultFlex&SearchType=Place&selCC=[%22midsize%22]) ### SUV Jeep Compass or similar - 5 people Santa Maria, CPV ![Jeep Compass](//images.trvl-media.com/media/content/shared/images/car/Common_90X50/US_SF.png) [](https://expedia.com/carsearch?paandi=true&fdrp=1&styp=2&dagv=1&subm=1&locn=Santa%20Maria,%20Sal,%20Cape%20Verde&dpln=6084955&date1=4/10/2026&date2=4/12/2026&crfrr=defaultFlex&SearchType=Place&selCC=[%22suv%22]) ### Don't see what you're looking for? See all car rentals in Santa Maria [View all cars](https://expedia.com/carsearch?paandi=true&fdrp=1&styp=2&dagv=1&subm=1&locn=Santa%20Maria,%20Sal,%20Cape%20Verde&dpln=6084955&date1=4/10/2026&date2=4/12/2026&crfrr=defaultFlex&SearchType=Place) ## What you need to know for your Santa Maria car rental ### **Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Maria** Renting a car in Santa Maria, [Sal](https://www.expedia.com/Sal-Hotels.d3164.Travel-Guide-Hotels), Cape Verde, is an excellent choice for those who want to experience the area with freedom and flexibility. With a rental car, beachgoers can easily access the stunning [Santa Maria Beach](https://www.expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Beach-Hotels.0-l6101592-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels), perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. Adventure seekers can explore the vibrant [Santa Maria Town Square](https://www.expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Town-Square-Hotels.0-l6326952-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels), where cultural experiences await, or take a stroll along the [Santa Maria Pier](https://www.expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Pier-Hotels.0-l553248635975607508-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) for picturesque views. The convenience of a car allows travelers to manage their luggage effortlessly and tailor their travel plans to suit their preferences. Moreover, a rental car provides the opportunity to visit nearby destinations like [Sal Rei](https://www.expedia.com/Sal-Rei-Hotels.d6123505.Travel-Guide-Hotels) and [Boa Ventura](https://www.expedia.com/Boa-Ventura-Hotels.d3000001194.Travel-Guide-Hotels), both located 29 miles from Santa Maria. These cities feature beautiful spots such as Estoril Beach and the Viana Desert, enriching your outdoor experience. Whether you're interested in city life or outdoor adventures, having a car at your disposal makes it easy to explore the diverse attractions in and around Santa Maria at your own pace. Enjoy the journey and make the most of your Cape Verde experience with the flexibility that a rental car offers. ### **Most popular car rentals in Santa Maria** - **[Compact SUV](https://www.expedia.com/compact-car-rentals-in-santa-maria.d6084955-tcompact.car-rental-guide-class):** This is the most booked car option in Santa Maria, accommodating up to 5 travelers and 3 medium suitcases. It's perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking to explore the beach and cultural attractions at their own pace. With the flexibility to manage luggage and travel plans, the Compact SUV is ideal for both city experiences and outdoor adventures in the area. ### **Top rated car suppliers in Santa Maria** - **[Hertz](https://www.expedia.com/Hertz-Car-Rentals-In-Santa-Maria.d6084955-c40.Car-Rental-Guide-Suppliers):** Hertz is the most popular car rental supplier in Santa Maria, offering one convenient rental location in the area. Travelers appreciate the flexibility of renting a car to explore local attractions at their own pace. The most booked vehicle is the Compact SUV, ideal for navigating both urban and rural settings. With a focus on customer satisfaction and well-maintained vehicles, Hertz provides an excellent option for those looking to enhance their travel experience in Cape Verde. ### **Where to go in Santa Maria** - **Santa Maria:** Located in the city of [Sal](https://www.expedia.com/Sal-Hotels.d3164.Travel-Guide-Hotels), Santa Maria is known for its beautiful beach, outdoor activities, and vibrant local culture. Key highlights include the Santa Maria Town Square, perfect for immersing yourself in the local atmosphere, and the Santa Maria Pier, a picturesque spot for relaxation. The nearby Ponta Preta beach offers stunning views and a chance to unwind by the ocean. The best time to visit is from January to March when traveler arrivals peak. - **[Sal Rei](https://www.expedia.com/Sal-Rei-Hotels.d6123505.Travel-Guide-Hotels):** Situated 29 miles away from Santa Maria, Sal Rei is a charming village that attracts visitors for its beautiful beaches and cultural experiences. Notable attractions include Estoril Beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming, and the Chapel of Our Lady of Fatima, which offers insight into local culture. The Viana Desert nearby provides a unique adventure experience. Like Santa Maria, the peak visiting season occurs between January and March. - **[Boa Ventura](https://www.expedia.com/Boa-Ventura-Hotels.d3000001194.Travel-Guide-Hotels):** Also 29 miles from Santa Maria, Boa Ventura is another quaint village worth exploring. This area is recognized for its stunning beaches and cultural sites. The Estoril Beach here is a popular spot for relaxation, while the Chapel of Our Lady of Fatima provides a glimpse into the local culture. The Viana Desert, offering scenic beauty and outdoor adventures, is a must-see. Visitor numbers peak from December to February, making this a great time to visit. ### **10 tips to save on your Santa Maria car hire** 1. **Use filters to find the right car:** Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey. 2. **Book in advance to help lower costs:** Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower prices and better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons. 3. **Consider a smaller car for savings:** Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded 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 certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over 70\. Always verify the 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 additional charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Other policies may allow full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which is also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario. 6. **Save on city and airport pickups:** Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may justify the extra cost. 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 prevent unexpected expenses and provide 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’re planning extensive road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra fees. 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 Maria** The best value period to rent a car in and around Santa Maria is February, when prices are slightly low and demand is at its lowest. This is followed by November, which also offers slightly low prices with low demand. Mid-range months include May and August, where prices and demand are average. However, September is typically the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, making it a busy time for rentals. | **![calendar icon](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2024/03/04/calendar.png)Calendar Month** | **![temperature icon](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2024/03/04/weather__hot.png)Temperature** | **![rain icon](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2024/03/04/weather__rain.png)Precipitation** | **![mostly cloudy icon](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2024/05/21/weather__day_mostly_cloudy.png)Cloudiness** | **![occupation rate icon](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2024/10/29/peoplebex.png)Demand** | **![price icon](https://forever.travel-assets.com/flex/flexmanager/images/2024/10/29/currency_dollar.png)Pricing** | | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | | January | 72.0°F (22.2°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny | Average | Average | | February | 70.0°F (21.1°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny | Low | Slightly Low | | March | 69.8°F (21.0°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny | High | Average | | April | 70.5°F (21.4°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny | High | Average | | May | 72.0°F (22.2°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny | Average | Average | | June | 72.9°F (22.7°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny | Low | Slightly Low | | July | 74.8°F (23.8°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny | High | Average | | August | 77.7°F (25.4°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny | Average | Average | | September | 79.7°F (26.5°C) | Light Rain | Mostly Sunny | Average | Slightly High | | October | 79.2°F (26.2°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny | Average | Slightly High | | November | 77.0°F (25.0°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Mostly Sunny | Low | Slightly Low | | December | 74.1°F (23.4°C) | No Rain (Dry) | Sunny | Average | Slightly High | ### **Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santa Maria** ### **Using our Search Wizard** If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Santa Maria into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Santa Maria and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees. ### **Renting a car in Santa Maria** Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Santa Maria. 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 Maria** 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](https://www.expedia.com/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](https://www.expedia.com/welcome-one-key?langid=1033) 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. - [Compact car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/compact) - [Convertible car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/convertible) - [Economy car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/economy) - [Fullsize car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/fullsize) - [Luxury car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/luxury) - [Midsize car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/midsize) - [Mini car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/mini) - [Minivan rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/minivan) - [Pickup car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/pickup) - [Premium car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/premium) - [Sportscar rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/sportscar) - [Standard car rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/standard) - [SUV rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/suv) - [Van rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/van) ## Car Rental Information | Popular car types | [SUV](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/suv?rfrr=car.table.SUV), [Full Size](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/fullsize?rfrr=car.table.FullSize), [Economy](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/economy?rfrr=car.table.Economy) | | ------------------------------------------------ | ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Car suppliers available | | | Our best deal of the day | | | Our second best deal of the day | | | Our third best deal of the day | | | From the airport to your hotel | [Airport Transportation](https://www.expedia.com/ground-transfers?rfrr=car.table.AirportTransportation) | | From popular domestic and international airports | [Airport Car Rentals](https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/car-rental/airport) | ## Frequently asked questions ### How much is a rental car per day in Santa Maria? ### What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Maria car reservation? ### Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Maria? > - Praia is about 120 miles from Santa Maria. Well-known attractions like Quebra Canela Beach deserve to be high on your must-see list here. > - Next stop? Tarrafal, which is around 110 miles away. Tarrafal Camp is one local highlight you won't want to miss. > - Get into the outdoors and breathe in some fresh air at Laginha Beach. You'll find it about 140 miles from Santa Maria. ### How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Maria with Expedia? ### What do you need to rent a car in Santa Maria? ### What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Maria? ### Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Santa Maria? ### Where can I find a Santa Maria car rental if I am younger than 25? ### What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Santa Maria? ### Can I drive in Santa Maria with my current driver's license? > - Age restrictions: You need to be 25 or older in most countries to rent a car. If you're younger, 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 the types of vehicles available to rent. > - Driving limitations: Make sure you read the rules and regulations before getting behind the wheel. With rental cars, you usually can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or off road with a rental vehicle. ## Explore a world of travel with Expedia - Lodging - Packages - Cars - [Hotels near Santa Maria Pier ](https://www.expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Pier-Hotels.0-l553248635975607508-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) - [Hotels near Nazarene Church ](https://www.expedia.com/Nazarene-Church-Hotels.0-l553248634289843909-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) - [Hotels near Kite Beach ](https://www.expedia.com/Kite-Beach-Hotels.0-l553248635975607506-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) - [Hotels near Viveiro Botanical Garden & Zoo ](https://www.expedia.com/Viveiro-Botanical-Garden-Zoo-Hotels.0-l553248634289843227-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) - [Hotels near Santa Maria Beach ](https://www.expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Beach-Hotels.0-l6101592-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) - [Hotels near Ponta Preta ](https://www.expedia.com/Ponta-Preta-Hotels.0-l553248635975607507-0.Travel-Guide-Filter-Hotels) - [Santa Maria Pier ](https://www.expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Pier-Sal.d553248635975607508.Vacation-Attraction) - [Nazarene Church ](https://www.expedia.com/Nazarene-Church-Sal.d553248634289843909.Vacation-Attraction) - [Santa Maria Town Square ](https://www.expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Town-Square-Sal.d6326952.Vacation-Attraction) - [Santa Maria Municipal Market ](https://www.expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Municipal-Market-Sal.d553248635995343471.Vacation-Attraction) - [Santa Maria Beach ](https://www.expedia.com/Santa-Maria-Beach-Cape-Verde.d6101592.Vacation-Attraction) - [Ponta Preta ](https://www.expedia.com/Ponta-Preta-Sal.d553248635975607507.Vacation-Attraction) - [Viveiro Botanical Garden & Zoo ](https://www.expedia.com/Viveiro-Botanical-Garden-Zoo-Sal.d553248634289843227.Vacation-Attraction) - [Car rentals near Kite Beach ](https://www.expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Kite-Beach.d553248635975607506.Car-Rental-Guide) - [Car rentals near Nazarene Church ](https://www.expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Nazarene-Church.d553248634289843909.Car-Rental-Guide) - [Car rentals near Santa Maria Municipal Market ](https://www.expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Santa-Maria-Municipal-Market.d553248635995343471.Car-Rental-Guide) - [Car rentals near Santa Maria Town Square ](https://www.expedia.com/Car-Rentals-In-Santa-Maria-Town-Square.d6326952.Car-Rental-Guide) - [Midsize Car Rentals near Santa Maria Town Square ](https://www.expedia.com/Midsize-Car-Rentals-In-Santa-Maria-Town-Square.d6326952-tMidsize.Car-Rental-Guide-Class) ![](https://a.travel-assets.com/mad-service/footer/bnaBanners/BEX_Footer.jpg) ## Go further with the Expedia app Save even more - get up to 20% on select hotels when you book on the app. Our app deals help you to save on trips so you can travel more and manage it all on the go. 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