Car Rental Santa Monica

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Santa Monica

Photo by Botak Jon
I have a discount code

Featured car rental suppliers

Compare from agencies

car suppliers logo

  • protection illustration

    Change your mind

    Penalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    One Key members save 10% or more on over 1 million car rentals
    Learn about One Key
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

    Compare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save

Top Car Deals in Santa Monica

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

Economy

Chevrolet Spark
  • 4 people
Santa Monica, Caraga, PHL
Chevrolet Spark
Economy Chevrolet Spark

Compact

Ford Focus
  • 4 people
Santa Monica, Caraga, PHL
Ford Focus
Compact Ford Focus

Midsize

Toyota Corolla
  • 5 people
Santa Monica, Caraga, PHL
Toyota Corolla
Midsize Toyota Corolla

SUV

Jeep Compass
  • 5 people
Santa Monica, Caraga, PHL
Jeep Compass
SUV Jeep Compass

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Santa Monica
View all cars

What you need to know for your Santa Monica car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Monica

Renting a car in Santa Monica offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental, you can easily manage your luggage and adjust your travel plans as needed. This convenience is especially beneficial for those looking to enjoy the beach-related experiences that Santa Monica has to offer. You can visit Magpupungko Beach, located 12 miles away, or Alegria Beach, just 3 miles from the city, both perfect for a day of sun and relaxation. Additionally, the San Isidro Municipal Building, situated 7 miles away, provides a glimpse into local civic life. Beyond Santa Monica, you can venture to nearby cities like Burgos, which is just 1 mile away, or Alegria and San Isidro, both offering similar attractions. Having a car allows you to navigate these popular destinations easily, making it convenient for families or groups wanting to explore various sites without the hassle of public transport. Renting a car truly enhances your travel experience in and around Santa Monica, allowing you to create your own itinerary and enjoy the local scenery with ease.

Where to stay in and around Santa Monica

  • Burgos: Located 1 mile away from Santa Monica, Burgos is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and outdoor scenery. Travelers can enjoy the beautiful Magpupungko Beach and Alegria Beach, both ideal for a relaxing beach vacation. In addition to the scenic coastline, visitors can explore the San Isidro Municipal Building, which offers a glimpse into local civic life. Burgos is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in natural beauty while enjoying various activities.
  • Alegria: Situated in the vicinity of Santa Monica, Alegria is a charming village that attracts visitors seeking a beach and outdoor experience. The area is home to the famous Magpupungko Beach and Alegria Beach, making it a great destination for sunbathing and swimming. Alegria also showcases local attractions, including the San Isidro Municipal Building. This village is an excellent choice for travelers looking to unwind in a picturesque coastal setting.
  • San Isidro: Approximately 6 miles from Santa Monica, San Isidro offers a delightful blend of beach and outdoor activities. Visitors can engage in fishing and various sports while enjoying the nearby urban park and scenic beaches. The local landmarks, including Magpupungko Beach and Alegria Beach, provide ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment. San Isidro also boasts dining options for travelers looking to experience local cuisine after a day of exploration.

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

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summertime fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the best 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically cost less to rent and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between expense, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This also applies 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, requiring you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is typically the best choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs an extra fee, but it may be worth it for the added convenience.
  7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only 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 rental insurance when booking through Expedia is straightforward.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, look for rental options 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.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santa Monica

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Santa Monica into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Santa Monica and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Santa Monica

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Santa Monica. 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 Monica

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.

We all love being rewarded

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
Our third best deal of the day
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 Monica?
Follow your own road in Santa Monica, with car rental prices starting at just a day. That's based on prices found within the past seven days. With rates like this, it'll be a piece of cake to find a ride that meets your needs.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Monica car reservation?
If you have to switch up your plans, nearly all rentals qualify for a full refund. You'll just need to let us know at least six hours prior to the pickup time. Have a thorough scan of your agreement for any exemptions. Your confirmation will have more details, or you can visit our Customer Service Portal for more information.
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Monica?
Santa Monica is full of adventures, but don't restrict yourself to only one place. Grab a set of wheels and hit the open road to explore the surrounding area. We've pulled together these great options:
  • Ormoc is 120 miles from Santa Monica. Well-known tourist attractions like Ormoc City Superdome deserve to be high on your must-see list while you're in town.
  • Your next pit stop? Consider Surigao, which is around 40 miles away. Surigao City Hall is one local draw card you really shouldn't miss.
  • Get out into nature and inhale the fresh air at Alona Beach. It's approximately 160 miles from Santa Monica.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Monica with Expedia?
Whatever kind of wheels you want, Expedia will help you find the best deal. Simply compare offers from leading rental suppliers and book the option that works for you. Love to drive away with even more in your wallet? Bundle your Santa Monica car rental with hotel or flight bookings.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Santa Monica?
Drivers with a valid license aged 21 and over can rent a vehicle in Santa Monica. While some providers may be willing to accommodate drivers younger than 21, you can expect additional fees. Find out what ages the young renter fee applies to, and associated costs, before making your reservation. Outlets also restrict the types of cars young drivers can rent. Higher limits are in place for large vehicles like premium SUVs and luxury models.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Monica?
Be prepared to present your driver's license and a credit card when you get to the rental counter. Prior to the pickup date, check with your chosen rental company whether anything else is needed. For example, you may also need to provide proof of insurance.
What side of the road do you drive on in Santa Monica?
In Santa Monica and around Philippines, people drive on the right side of the road. While this is the same as in the U.S, remember that there's likely to be different traffic rules.
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Monica?
According to prices found within the past seven days, the lowest daily rate for a cheap car rental in Santa Monica was . The next best price was per day. 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 Monica?
Yes, and you can find your perfect ride among our long-term car rental deals. Simply enter your trip dates and we'll show you excellent options from a range of quality companies.
Where can I find a Santa Monica car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Santa Monica outlets will rent cars to drivers under 25 years of age, and others won't. Age policies differ between suppliers, so you'll want to do your homework. Also, find out if there are any extra costs. Some businesses will pass on a surcharge to young customers between the ages of 21 and 24. Always look through the terms and conditions so you know what to expect.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Santa Monica?
You'll want to add collision protection while reserving your Santa Monica rental car with Expedia. This covers your ride against accident damage, theft and vandalism throughout your vacation. Offering up to $35,000 in primary coverage and 24/7 emergency support, you can drive away knowing you're covered for most mishaps. Simply opt in to this plan during the checkout process.
Can I drive in Santa Monica with my current driver's license?
If you don't hold a driver's license issued in Philippines, then you might need to acquire an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country to be allowed to rent a car. Also consider that if you do need an IDP, it won't be valid on its own. You'll need to show your current driver's license your passport and other forms of documentation as well. Lastly, it's important that the credit card used to book the rental matches the name on your driver's license and passport. Some other requirements for international car rentals are:
  • 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 what kinds of cars you can rent.
  • Driving limitations: Be sure to read the fine print before sliding behind the wheel. Usually, you can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or off road with a rental vehicle.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia