$17 Car Rental Santa Maria

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Top Car Deals in Santa Maria

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Economy Elite

Toyota Yaris 2WD
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Toyota Yaris 2WD

$39

includes taxes & fees
$9 per day
found 17 hours ago
Economy Elite Toyota Yaris 2WD
Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Midsize Elite SUV

Toyota Raize 2WD
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Toyota Raize 2WD

$46

includes taxes & fees
$15 per day
found 17 hours ago
Midsize Elite SUV Toyota Raize 2WD
Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Mini

Hyundai i10 or Similar
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Hyundai i10 or Similar

$17

includes taxes & fees
$15 per day
found 17 hours ago
Mini Hyundai i10 or Similar
Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Compact

Toyota Yaris or Similar
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Toyota Yaris or Similar

$17

includes taxes & fees
$15 per day
found 17 hours ago
Compact Toyota Yaris or Similar
Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Economy

Hyundai Accent or Similar
  • 4 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Hyundai Accent or Similar

$17

includes taxes & fees
$15 per day
found 17 hours ago
Economy Hyundai Accent or Similar
Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Midsize

Hyundai Elantra or Similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Hyundai Elantra or Similar

$18

includes taxes & fees
$15 per day
found 17 hours ago
Midsize Hyundai Elantra or Similar
Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Standard

Toyota Corolla or Similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Toyota Corolla or Similar

$18

includes taxes & fees
$16 per day
found 17 hours ago
Standard Toyota Corolla or Similar
Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Compact Elite SUV

Toyota Rush 2WD
  • 7 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Toyota Rush 2WD

$48

includes taxes & fees
$17 per day
found 17 hours ago
Compact Elite SUV Toyota Rush 2WD
Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Fullsize Pickup Regular Cab

Isuzu D-Max or Similar
  • 5 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Isuzu D-Max or Similar

$65

includes taxes & fees
$58 per day
found 17 hours ago
Fullsize Pickup Regular Cab Isuzu D-Max or Similar
Sat, Nov 7 to Sun, Nov 8

Premium Van

Hyundai Staria or Similar
  • 11 people
  • Unlimited mileage
Quepos, CRI
Hyundai Staria or Similar

$129

includes taxes & fees
$114 per day
found 17 hours ago
Premium Van Hyundai Staria or Similar

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Lowest prices found within the past 17 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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 provides the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant area and its stunning surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Parque Nacional Los Quetzales, located only 8 miles away, or the beautiful Don Manuel Lake just 4 miles from the city. This convenience is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic experiences. You can also venture to nearby cities like San Marcos and San Rafael, both just 4 miles away, which offer similar attractions and the chance to discover more about the region's natural beauty.

A rental car is ideal for travelers with varying needs, whether you are carrying luggage or traveling with family. It allows for easy management of your gear while keeping everyone together as you explore the local sights. Additionally, a car makes it simple to plan flexible travel days, so you can spend more time enjoying the stunning landscapes and engaging in outdoor activities without the constraints of public transportation schedules.

Most popular car rental in Santa Maria

  • Mini SUV: The most booked car option in Santa Maria, the Mini SUV accommodates up to 5 travelers and can carry up to 3 medium suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for families or small groups looking to explore the area while enjoying the flexibility of managing luggage conveniently. With a Mini SUV, you can navigate the roads of Santa Maria comfortably and at your own pace.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Maria

  • Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo is the top choice for travelers in Santa Maria, boasting a rental location in the area. Known for its quick pickup process and friendly staff, Alamo provides well-maintained vehicles that enhance your travel experience. The most booked car with this supplier is the Standard model, which offers a comfortable ride for exploring the attractions around Santa Maria. Customers appreciate the cleanliness of the cars and the hassle-free returns, making Alamo a reliable option for your car rental needs.

Where to stay in and around Santa Maria

  • San Marcos: Located 4 miles from Santa Maria, San Marcos is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore attractions such as Parque Nacional Los Quetzales and Parque Nacional Tapantí-Macizo Cerro de la Muerte, both offering incredible opportunities for adventure and nature appreciation. Additionally, Don Manuel Lake provides a romantic setting for relaxation and scenic views. With nearby shopping centers and resorts, San Marcos presents a perfect blend of adventure and convenience.
  • San Rafael: This charming village is situated within Santa Maria and is great for those interested in a beach and city-themed experience. San Rafael is home to beautiful beaches and urban parks, making it a delightful spot for relaxation and exploration. Key highlights include Parque Nacional Los Quetzales and Don Manuel Lake, both offering activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The vibrant atmosphere of San Rafael provides a quaint escape while still being close to the amenities of Santa Maria.
  • Jardín: Located 5 miles from Santa Maria, Jardín is another excellent choice for travelers seeking outdoor and adventure experiences. Known for its breathtaking scenery, visitors can enjoy the Parque Nacional Los Quetzales and Parque Nacional Tapantí-Macizo Cerro de la Muerte, both perfect for hiking and exploring nature. Don Manuel Lake, suitable for scenic views and outdoor activities, adds to the charm of Jardín. This city offers a quiet retreat while still being close to various attractions.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to identify the best option 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 vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles 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 the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This may also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best option. Others might provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can be acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the vehicle empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
  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 unnecessary expenses and provide peace of mind if unexpected events occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is straightforward when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs.
  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 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 from $17.

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.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$17
 
Our second best deal of the day
$18
 
Our third best deal of the day
$39
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Santa Maria?
You can find cheap car rentals in Santa Maria from $10 a day with Budget's fullsize suv. ACE Rent A Car offers midsize SUVs starting from $10 a day, while Budget has fullsize SUVs and compact elite 2 or 4 door cars also starting from $10 a day. Thrifty Car Rental provides compact elite SUVs starting from $10 a day. Comparing suppliers on Expedia helps you find a car rental in Santa Maria that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Santa Maria.
What are the best luxury car companies in Santa Maria?
For luxury car rentals in Santa Maria, you can find premium options through providers like Budget, Enterprise, and Alamo Rent A Car. Budget offers premium elite SUVs starting from $50 a day, providing a high-end experience. Enterprise has premium SUVs available from $18 a day, and special SUVs starting from $16 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also provides premium SUVs starting from $15 a day. These options offer enhanced comfort and features for a more upscale travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Santa Maria.
Can I rent a car one-way in Santa Maria?
Yes, a one-way car rental in Santa Maria is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $10 a day. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car offer flexible one-way policies, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Santa Maria and drop it off at a different location. This option is convenient for travelers planning to explore various destinations without needing to return to their original pickup point. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Santa Maria.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Santa Maria?
Yes, Santa Maria is well suited to round-trip rentals, with options starting from $10 a day. Picking up and dropping off your rental car at the same location generally helps avoid one-way drop-off fees, making it a cost-effective choice for exploring the area and returning to your starting point. Providers like Enterprise and Alamo Rent A Car offer wide round-trip availability, giving you plenty of choice for your travel plans. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Santa Maria.
What are the best car rentals in Santa Maria?
Car rentals in Santa Maria offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize SUV
  • Compact open air all terrain
  • Standard SUV
  • Compact SUV
  • Economy SUV
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, offering ease of driving. Families visiting attractions often prefer SUVs or minivans for their space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for their needs. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage requirements, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Santa Maria.

What are the best car rentals in Santa Maria for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Santa Maria for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and fuel-efficient for one person exploring at their own pace:
  • Economy SUV, starting from $12 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 2 medium suitcases, nimble on city streets and simple to slot into small parking spaces
  • Compact SUV, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a little more room for luggage while staying fuel-efficient
Both comfortably fit a solo traveler plus a bag or two. For extra comfort on longer drives, consider a midsize SUV. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Santa Maria.

What are the best car rentals in Santa Maria for couples?
The best car rentals in Santa Maria for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 large suitcases with smooth cruising for two
  • Compact SUV, starting from $11 a day—fits up to 5 people and up to 3 medium suitcases with a higher ride for day trips around the region
Both give a couple comfortable seating and trunk space without being hard to park. For a special trip, consider a compact open air all terrain vehicle for scenic drives around Santa Maria. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Santa Maria.

What are the best car rentals in Santa Maria for families?
The best car rentals in Santa Maria for families are the ones with room for everyone and their gear. Thrifty Car Rental is a popular choice for families. Consider these options:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $11 a day—seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases and a car seat
  • Fullsize passenger van, starting from $36 a day—seats up to 10 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and full luggage
SUVs and passenger vans offer ample space for the whole family, car seats, strollers, and luggage, making them comfortable for trips around Santa Maria. Book 4+ weeks ahead, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during peak periods like December and March, and consider adding GPS if you are new to the area. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Santa Maria.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Santa Maria?
Yes, several car rental companies in Santa Maria provide electric and hybrid vehicle options. Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, and Budget all offer electric vehicles starting from $10 a day. Thrifty Car Rental also provides electric vehicles starting from $10 a day, and hybrid options starting from $12 a day. These environmentally friendly choices are widely available through Expedia.
What is the best time to book a car in Santa Maria?
Booking your car rental in Santa Maria during October, the lowest demand month, can often lead to more competitive rates, with rentals starting from as little as $11 a day. Demand tends to be higher during December and March, which are peak months for travel, and prices may rise accordingly. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup, so you can book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Santa Maria?
Car rentals in Santa Maria are available from reputable providers like Enterprise, Alamo Rent A Car, ACE Rent A Car, Budget, and Thrifty Car Rental, offering vehicles suited to various local driving conditions. Enterprise provides midsize SUVs and compact open air all terrain vehicles, which are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Alamo Rent A Car offers midsize SUVs and compact SUVs, providing more space and stability for highways. ACE Rent A Car has midsize SUVs and standard SUVs, while Budget offers fullsize SUVs and compact elite 2 or 4 door cars. Thrifty Car Rental rounds out the choices with compact elite SUVs and fullsize crossovers. For varied terrain, consider a vehicle with automatic 4WD or AWD, which are available from several providers, to offer good grip and traction. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Santa Maria.
What are good day trip destinations from Santa Maria by rental car?
Exploring the beautiful surroundings of Santa Maria by rental car offers many rewarding day trip opportunities for families, couples, and solo travelers. For convenient and comfortable travel, consider renting an SUV, such as a midsize SUV or a fullsize SUV, which provides ample space and handles varied terrain well. Larger groups or families might prefer a fullsize passenger van for extra room.
  • Don Manuel Lake: Located just 5 miles from Santa Maria, this serene lake is perfect for a relaxing outing. The short drive, less than 15 minutes, makes it an ideal spot for families looking for a quick escape into nature.
  • Parque Nacional Los Quetzales: Drive approximately 11 miles, about 20-30 minutes, to reach Parque Nacional Los Quetzales. This national park is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers, offering opportunities to spot the elusive quetzal. It's a great option for couples and solo adventurers seeking hiking and wildlife.
  • Poás Volcano National Park: Journey about 52 miles, roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, to Poás Volcano National Park. This iconic destination allows visitors to witness a stunning volcanic crater and explore surrounding trails. A midsize SUV or standard SUV would be well-suited for this drive, offering comfort for the longer journey.
  • Jacó Beach: For a coastal adventure, Jacó Beach is approximately 55 miles away, a drive of about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. This vibrant beach town is popular for surfing, swimming, and enjoying the Pacific coast. A compact SUV or economy SUV provides good value for this trip, balancing fuel efficiency with comfort.
Before heading out, always ensure your rental car is fueled up, and consider packing water and snacks, especially for longer drives to national parks or beaches. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Santa Maria.

Are there any hidden fees when renting a car on Expedia?
Expedia aims to show the key price and important rental details clearly during booking, so you know what to expect before you reserve. In some cases, car rental companies may apply additional charges at pick-up or during the rental, such as security deposits, tolls, fuel charges, extra driver fees, or local requirements, so it's worth checking the supplier's rental terms before you book.
Are there any long-term car rentals in Santa Maria?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Santa Maria. Whether you're planning an extended holiday with the family, relocating temporarily, or simply need a vehicle for several weeks or months, many car rental providers offer flexible long-term rental plans tailored to your needs. Click on our long-term car rental deals page, enter your trip information and then book a ride that suits.
Do you need insurance to rent a car in Santa Maria?
No, you don't need personal auto insurance to rent a car in most cases. You will, however, be required to purchase some insurance to cover the duration of the rental. Rental companies will offer this insurance when you rent the car. Certain personal car insurance policies can also be applied to rental cars, and travelers can even use non-owner car insurance if they rent cars often but don't have a car of their own. Additionally, some car rentals simply include rental car insurance within the price of the rental.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Santa Maria?
Budget car rental in Santa Maria can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $17. To find some of the cheapest options, sort your search results by price and use filters to match your budget and travel needs. For added flexibility, it's also worth exploring one-way car rentals.
What are the top car rental deals in Santa Maria?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Santa Maria. The easiest way to get a good deal on a rental car is to use our filters. At the top of the filter list, you'll find a section featuring our best car rental offers. Check the filter for "Great Deal," and your search results will be filled with specials. Compare offers from trusted rental providers, choose the option that fits your trip, and book with confidence. For even more value, bundle your Santa Maria car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Santa Maria?
To rent a car in Santa Maria, a current driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essential. If you're opting out of the company's insurance plan, then you may also need proof of other coverage. Rules may differ between rental companies, so read through your policy.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Maria car rental?
If you need to cancel your Santa Maria car rental, read over the policy to be sure, but almost all prepaid rentals are eligible for a complete refund if you notify us at least six hours prior to the pickup time, though there may be some exclusions so check your itinerary for more information, or just click through to our Customer Service Portal.
Why should I rent a car in Santa Maria with Expedia?
Booking your car rental on Expedia makes it easier to get more out of your trip from the start. With a wide choice of car rentals, you can compare prices, suppliers and deals all in one place, then bundle your car with a hotel which could help you save even more. Join our free One Key™ travel rewards program to instantly unlock additional savings.