Car Rental at Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO)

Reasons to book a car rental at Santa Monica Airport

Renting a car at Santa Monica Airport is an excellent choice for those looking to explore the vibrant attractions surrounding the area with ease. The freedom of having your own vehicle allows beachgoers, outdoor enthusiasts, and road trippers to travel at their own pace, manage luggage conveniently, and adapt their travel plans as desired. Just three miles from the airport, you can soak up the sun at Santa Monica Beach or enjoy the iconic Santa Monica Pier. If you're in the mood for a scenic drive, Hollywood, featuring the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, is only nine miles away. Additionally, Beverly Hills, known for its luxurious Rodeo Drive, is a mere five miles from the airport, while the eclectic Venice Beach and its boardwalk are just two miles away. With a rental car, accessing these popular destinations becomes effortless, making it an appealing option for travelers seeking artistic experiences and adventure. Whether you’re planning a day of beach fun or a cultural outing, renting a car opens up a world of possibilities right from Santa Monica Airport.

Most popular car rentals near Santa Monica Airport

• Midsize SUV: This option comfortably fits 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. Renting a midsize SUV at Santa Monica airport allows you to enjoy the flexibility of space while exploring the scenic attractions around the area, especially for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts eager to carry their gear with ease.
• Economy: Designed to accommodate 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases, the economy car is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families. This option offers great fuel efficiency and is a popular choice among visitors at Santa Monica airport who are looking for a practical and budget-friendly vehicle to navigate the local sights and attractions.
• Fullsize: Offering ample space for 5 travelers with the ability to hold either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, the fullsize car is an excellent fit for families and groups. This option provides a comfortable ride for those renting from Santa Monica airport, allowing for easy luggage management and the freedom to explore the vibrant surroundings at your own pace.

Top rated car suppliers near Santa Monica Airport

• Sixt: Sixt is a popular choice for travelers at Santa Monica airport, offering 2 rental locations within 2 miles of the airport. Known for its selection of vehicles, the most booked cars with Sixt are the Midsize SUV and Luxury SUV, making it an excellent option for those looking for comfort and style while exploring the area.
• Avis: Avis boasts over 5 rental locations near Santa Monica airport, ensuring convenience for travelers. With a focus on providing quality service, Avis's most popular vehicles include Midsize and Standard SUVs, perfect for families or groups seeking space and versatility during their journey.
• Budget: Budget also features more than 5 rental locations within 2 miles of Santa Monica airport, providing easy access for travelers. Known for its affordability, Budget's most frequently rented vehicles include Midsize and Standard SUVs, making it an attractive option for those looking to balance cost and comfort on their trip.

Where to go near Santa Monica Airport

• Hollywood: Located 9 miles away from Santa Monica, Hollywood is a vibrant neighborhood offering a rich blend of culture, entertainment, and family experiences. Popular attractions include the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you can stroll along the famous street, and Universal Studios Hollywood, a theme park that provides thrilling entertainment options for families. Visitors can also explore Hollywood Boulevard, a bustling area known for its shops, theaters, and arena entertainment facilities. The best times to visit are typically March, July, and September.
• Beverly Hills: Situated 5 miles from Santa Monica, Beverly Hills is a prestigious city renowned for its upscale shopping and beautiful surroundings. Key highlights include Rodeo Drive, a famous shopping street that attracts visitors from around the world. The area also offers access to cultural experiences and educational opportunities. Universal Studios Hollywood can be conveniently reached from here as well. Peak visitor arrivals occur from March to April and in July, making it an ideal time for travelers seeking a classy getaway.
• Venice: Only 2 miles away from Santa Monica, Venice is a lively city famous for its beach culture and outdoor activities. Key attractions include Venice Beach, a popular destination for sunbathing, and the Santa Monica Pier, which features various entertainment options. The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a vibrant tourist precinct perfect for family outings and outdoor experiences. Visitor numbers peak during April and June to July, creating a lively atmosphere for those looking to enjoy the beach and local events.

9 tips to save on your Santa Monica Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for extra luggage, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your trip.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure lower rates and a wider selection, it's advisable to book your SMO car rental as early as possible. Ideally, aim to make your reservation 1-3 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. 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 have restricted availability. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles like economy or compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is generally the most favorable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just remember to return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you prevent unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from Santa Monica Airport

The best value period to rent a car from Santa Monica Airport is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. May also offers a great opportunity, with both prices and demand remaining slightly low. However, as summer approaches, July and August become the most expensive months, characterized by high prices and high demand. After that, September and October return to average prices, while November shows slightly low demand with average pricing.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	69.8°F (21.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High