$36 Car Rental Seaside, CA

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Top Car Deals in Seaside

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What you need to know for your Seaside car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Seaside

Renting a car in Seaside offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly appealing for those interested in outdoor activities, beach experiences, and scenic views. With a rental car, you can easily visit key attractions such as Fort Ord Dunes State Park, which is perfect for outdoor adventures and is located nearby. Additionally, Cannery Row and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca are only 3 and 5 miles away, respectively, making them easily accessible for city experiences and motorsport enthusiasts.

A rental car also allows you to explore nearby cities like Monterey and Pacific Grove, located just 3 and 4 miles away, where you can enjoy attractions like Fisherman's Wharf and the Point Pinos Lighthouse. For families or travelers with luggage, a rental vehicle simplifies transportation and provides comfort during your journey. Overall, having a car in Seaside enhances your travel experience, allowing for convenient visits to attractions and the flexibility to create your own itinerary.

Most popular car rental in Seaside

  • Economy: The most booked car option in Seaside, the Economy car accommodates 5 travelers and can carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families looking to explore the area at their own pace. With its compact size, the Economy car offers easy maneuverability and parking in Seaside, allowing for a convenient and flexible travel experience.

Top rated car suppliers in Seaside

  • Enterprise: Enterprise is the top choice for car rentals in Seaside, with one convenient location. Travelers appreciate its excellent customer service, which includes helpful staff and a smooth check-in process. The most popular vehicle options are Midsize and Fullsize cars, making it suitable for a variety of travel needs. With a strong reputation for flexibility and reliability, Enterprise allows you to explore Seaside and its surroundings at your own pace.

Where to stay in and around Seaside

  • Monterey: Located 3 miles from Seaside, Monterey offers travelers a scenic experience with its beautiful beaches and vibrant outdoor spaces. Key attractions include Cannery Row, a bustling street ideal for city vacations, and Fisherman's Wharf, a picturesque jetty. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the nearby WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for motor racing. With a variety of restaurants and wineries, Monterey is perfect for food lovers seeking a delightful culinary experience.
  • Pacific Grove: Just 4 miles away from Seaside, Pacific Grove is a charming city known for its stunning scenery and outdoor recreational areas. Visitors can explore the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse and the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary, a beautiful reserve. The area also offers access to golf courses and shopping areas, making it a well-rounded destination. With its inviting beaches and national state park, Pacific Grove is ideal for those seeking a relaxing getaway.
  • Mescal Corridor NW: Situated around Seaside, Mescal Corridor NW is a neighborhood that offers a blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Travelers can explore attractions like Cannery Row and enjoy motor racing at the nearby WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. The area is also home to beautiful beaches and a vibrant boardwalk, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a lively atmosphere while enjoying the natural coastline.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Seaside

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer fun, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to help you discover 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 car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re likely to secure lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are usually more affordable 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 can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making your reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most cost-effective option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure to return the car empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience might justify the extra cost.
  7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily 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 something unforeseen occurs during your trip. Adding car rental insurance while booking with Expedia is a simple process.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals 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.

Best time to rent a car in and around Seaside

The best value period to rent a car in and around Seaside is November, when prices are at their lowest and demand is moderate. October also offers slightly lower prices with average demand. May can be a good shoulder month as prices are slightly low, and demand remains moderate. However, July and August tend to be the most expensive months, with higher demand making rentals pricier during that time.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly High
February52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April54.5°F (12.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May56.7°F (13.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
June60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighAverage
July63.0°F (17.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August63.9°F (17.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September64.0°F (17.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately LowAverage
October61.3°F (16.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
November55.9°F (13.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Seaside

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Seaside

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $36.

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
$36
 
Our second best deal of the day
$37
 
Our third best deal of the day
$39
 
From the airport to your hotel
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Frequently asked questions

What are the best cheap car rental companies in Seaside?
You can find cheap car rentals in Seaside from $10 a day with Fox Rental Cars's midsize 2/4 door. Dollar Rent A Car offers special cars starting from $11 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars also starting from $11 a day. Thrifty Car Rental provides compact SUV cars starting from $11 a day and special cars starting from $11 a day. Comparing these suppliers on Expedia can help you find a car rental in Seaside that fits your budget. For more options, explore Economy Car Rentals in Seaside.
What are the best luxury car companies in Seaside?
For luxury car rentals in Seaside, you can find premium options through providers on Expedia like Sixt and Alamo Rent A Car. Sixt offers fullsize elite 2 or 4 door vehicles starting from $16 a day and fullsize elite SUV options starting from $24 a day. Alamo Rent A Car also specializes in premium vehicles, with premium crossover cars starting from $30 a day and premium elite SUV options starting from $36 a day. These luxury rentals provide enhanced comfort and features for a more upscale travel experience. For more options, explore Luxury Car Rentals in Seaside.
Can I rent a car one-way in Seaside?
A one-way car rental in Seaside is an excellent option for regional road trips, with prices starting from $11 a day. This allows you to pick up your vehicle in Seaside and drop it off at a different location, offering flexibility for your travel plans. You can compare various options on Expedia to find a one-way car rental that suits your itinerary. For more options, explore Standard Car Rentals in Seaside.
Can I rent a car round-trip in Seaside?
Seaside 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 avoids one-way drop-off fees, which can make it a cost-effective choice for exploring the area and returning to your starting point. You can easily find and compare round-trip car rental options on Expedia. For more options, explore Fullsize Car Rentals in Seaside.
What are the best car rentals in Seaside?
Car rentals in Seaside offer extensive vehicle variety to suit different travel needs. The most popular car classes available include:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door
  • Standard 2 or 4 door
  • Fullsize 2 or 4 door
  • Compact 2 or 4 door
  • Midsize SUV
Most vehicles come with automatic transmission, offering ease of driving. Families often prefer SUVs or minivans for ample space and comfort, while couples and solo travelers might find economy or compact cars more suitable for city navigation and fuel efficiency. Choose a vehicle based on your passenger count, luggage requirements, and budget. For more options, explore Minivan Car Rentals in Seaside.

What are the best car rentals in Seaside for solo travelers?
The best car rentals in Seaside for solo travelers are economy and compact classes—small, easy to park, and efficient for one person exploring at their own pace. Consider these options:
  • Economy 2 or 4 door, starting from $18 a day—this car fits up to 2 medium suitcases and is nimble for city streets and easy parking.
  • Compact 2 or 4 door, starting from $15 a day—this car fits up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a bit more room for luggage while remaining fuel-efficient.
Both options provide comfortable seating for a solo traveler plus a bag or two. If you plan longer drives, a compact SUV, starting from $18 a day, could offer extra highway comfort and space. For more options, explore Compact Car Rentals in Seaside.

What are the best car rentals in Seaside for couples?
The best car rentals in Seaside for couples balance comfort and easy handling for two. Consider these options:
  • Midsize 2 or 4 door, starting from $12 a day—this car fits up to 3 large suitcases, providing smooth cruising for two.
  • Compact SUV, starting from $18 a day—this car fits up to 3 medium suitcases, offering a higher ride for day trips around the region.
Both options provide comfortable seating and trunk space for a couple without being difficult to park. For a special trip, a standard convertible, starting from $42 a day, could enhance scenic drives around Seaside. For more options, explore Midsize Car Rentals in Seaside.

What are the best car rentals in Seaside for families?
The best car rentals in Seaside for families are those with ample room for everyone and their belongings. Thrifty Car Rental is popular with families and offers suitable options. Consider these choices:
  • Midsize SUV, starting from $16 a day—this vehicle seats up to 5 people with room for 3 large suitcases, accommodating car seats and luggage.
  • Mini passenger van, starting from $17 a day—this vehicle seats up to 10 people with room for 6 large suitcases, ideal for larger families with strollers and extensive luggage.
SUVs and minivans provide the space and comfort needed for family trips around Seaside. Booking 4+ weeks ahead is advisable, as family-sized vehicles can have lower availability during the July peak. For more options, explore SUV Car Rentals in Seaside.

Are there any car rental companies that provide electric cars in Seaside?
Yes, Seaside offers electric and hybrid vehicle options from several rental companies. Sixt provides hybrid vehicles starting from $10 a day, and Dollar Rent A Car offers electric options starting from $10 a day. Thrifty Car Rental also has hybrid vehicles starting from $10 a day and electric options starting from $10 a day. These eco-friendly choices are widely available on Expedia, offering a great way to save on fuel costs during your trip.
What is the best time to book a car in Seaside?
From February, prices in Seaside are typically lower—rentals can start from as little as $11 a day during this period. July tends to be the busiest month, when high demand can lead to higher prices. During major holidays and special events, rates may also fluctuate. Booking 3-4 weeks ahead can help with availability and pricing. Many bookings allow free cancellation 24+ hours before pickup—book early and rebook if rates drop.
What are the best car companies in Seaside?
Car rentals in Seaside are available from providers like Sixt, Enterprise, and Dollar Rent A Car, offering vehicles suited to local roads and conditions. Sixt has midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $12 a day and standard 2 or 4 door cars starting from $14 a day, which are easy to park and fuel-efficient for city streets. Enterprise offers midsize 2 or 4 door cars starting from $16 a day and compact SUV vehicles starting from $18 a day, providing more space and stability. Dollar Rent A Car rounds out the choices with special cars starting from $11 a day and midsize 2 or 4 door cars also starting from $11 a day. Vehicles with automatic all-wheel drive are available, which can offer reliable grip and traction for varying conditions. For more options, explore Premium Car Rentals in Seaside.
What are good day trip destinations from Seaside by rental car?
Exploring the scenic California coast and nearby attractions from Seaside is easy with a rental car, offering flexibility for families, couples, and solo travelers. You can visit several popular destinations within an hour's drive. For these trips, a midsize car starting from $12 a day offers excellent value and easy navigation. For more space and comfort, especially for families or those with extra luggage, consider a midsize SUV starting from $16 a day or a fullsize SUV starting from $24 a day. Top day trip destinations from Seaside include:
  • Cannery Row in Monterey, just 4 miles away, is perfect for couples and families interested in historic waterfronts, unique shops, and dining.
  • WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, about 7 miles from Seaside, is a great spot for sports enthusiasts and solo travelers to catch racing events.
  • Carmel Beach in Carmel, approximately 8 miles away, offers a beautiful natural setting for relaxation, ideal for couples or families looking for a serene beach day.
  • Monterey Bay, located about 17 miles from Seaside, is a hub for nature lovers and families, offering opportunities for scenic drives and marine life viewing.
  • Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, around 32 miles away, is an excellent choice for families and couples seeking amusement park thrills and beachside fun.
Before heading out, remember to fuel up your rental car and check for any local traffic conditions to ensure a smooth journey. For more options, explore Convertible Car Rentals in Seaside.

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 Seaside?
Yes, there are several long-term car rental options available in Seaside. 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 Seaside?
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 Seaside?
Budget car rental in Seaside can be easy to find, with prices based on rates seen within the past seven days from $36. 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 Seaside?
No matter what kind of vehicle you're looking for, Expedia makes it easy to find a great car rental deal in Seaside. 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 Seaside car rental with a hotel or flight to unlock additional savings.
What do I need to rent a car in Seaside?
To rent a car in Seaside, 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 Seaside car rental?
If you need to cancel your Seaside 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 Seaside 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.

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