$14 Car Rental Santa Monica

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Monica

Renting a car in Santa Monica offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. This is especially beneficial for those seeking business-themed activities or outdoor experiences. Key attractions are conveniently accessible; for example, Rosarito Beach is located only 3 miles away, perfect for a day of sun and sand. Culture enthusiasts can visit the Baja Gallery, situated 4 miles from Santa Monica, while families may enjoy a trip to Baja Studios, just 7 miles away. Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore the vibrant cities surrounding Santa Monica, including Tijuana, Rosarito, and Playas de Rosarito. Each of these destinations features various attractions, like the bustling Av Revolución in Tijuana and the scenic La Misión Beach in Playas de Rosarito. Overall, renting a car provides a convenient way to experience the diverse offerings of Santa Monica and its surroundings, catering to leisure seekers and those on business alike.

Most popular car rentals around Santa Monica

• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is a popular choice among travelers, accommodating up to 5 passengers comfortably. With space for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, this vehicle is ideal for families or groups looking to explore Santa Monica and its surroundings. The ample luggage capacity allows you to manage your belongings easily, ensuring that your travel plans remain flexible.
• Standard SUV: If you're traveling with family or friends, the Standard SUV is a fantastic option. This vehicle also accommodates 5 travelers and provides room for up to 2 medium suitcases. Its versatile space makes it suitable for couples or groups who want to enjoy the scenic drives around Santa Monica while having enough room for luggage and beach gear. Experience the comfort and convenience this SUV has to offer.
• Midsize: The Midsize car option is well-suited for couples or small families, accommodating 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option strikes a balance between comfort and practicality, making it perfect for those who want to explore Santa Monica and nearby attractions without feeling cramped. The Midsize car allows for easy luggage management, ensuring your travel experience is enjoyable and stress-free.

Top rated car suppliers around Santa Monica

• Budget: With a rental location situated 12 miles away from Santa Monica, Budget is a popular choice for travelers seeking affordability and value. Known for offering competitive rates, Budget specializes in Fullsize and Standard SUVs, making it an excellent option for those needing extra space while exploring the area.
• Enterprise: Located 9 miles from Santa Monica, Enterprise is favored for its convenience and excellent customer service. This supplier features a selection of vehicles, including Fullsize and Compact SUVs, catering to various traveler needs. With a focus on flexibility and reliability, renting from Enterprise can enhance your travel experience in and around Santa Monica.
• National Car Rental: Also positioned 9 miles from Santa Monica, National Car Rental is a great choice for those looking for a range of vehicle options. This supplier is particularly popular for its Fullsize SUVs and Midsize vehicles, making it suitable for families or groups. National's commitment to customer satisfaction ensures a smooth car rental experience as you explore Santa Monica and beyond.

Where to stay in Santa Monica

• Tijuana: Located within Tijuana, Santa Monica offers easy access to various attractions suited for family and city-themed experiences. Within proximity, travelers can explore Rosarito Beach, ideal for a beach vacation, as well as Av Revolución, a vibrant street perfect for urban exploration. The area also features shopping centers and recreational areas, making it a convenient base for those seeking both relaxation and activity.
• Rosarito: Nestled in Rosarito, Santa Monica is close to beautiful beaches, including the popular Rosarito Beach, which is perfect for outdoor activities and family fun. The nearby Club Campestre Golf Course caters to golf enthusiasts, while the Christ of the Sacred Heart statue offers a cultural touch. With resorts and shopping centers in the vicinity, this neighborhood is excellent for travelers looking to enjoy beach life and local attractions.
• Playas de Rosarito: Situated in Playas de Rosarito, Santa Monica is surrounded by stunning beaches and family-friendly venues. Noteworthy highlights include Baja Studios, a film studio that appeals to movie buffs, and La Misión Beach, another beautiful spot for beach goers. With access to resorts and campgrounds, this area is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in outdoor experiences while enjoying the scenic coastal views.

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 vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best fit 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 vehicle well ahead of your travel date. By booking early, you’re more likely to lock in lower prices and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Generally, smaller cars are more affordable to rent and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
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 additional charges. This is usually the most economical option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be convenient. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge; however, the convenience might make it worthwhile.
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 prevent unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If your travel plans include long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Santa Monica

The best value period to rent a car in and around Santa Monica is February, as prices are slightly low while demand remains steady. March also offers slightly low prices, but demand tends to be high. May continues this trend with similar pricing and average demand. However, July and August see prices rise to slightly high levels, coinciding with increased demand. December is typically the most expensive month, with prices also being slightly high and average demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
February	56.1°F (13.4°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	57.7°F (14.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
April	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	66.9°F (19.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	71.4°F (21.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	73.2°F (22.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
September	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	68.0°F (20.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	62.1°F (16.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High