$51 Car Rental Isla Vista, CA

Search and Compare from Car Companies in Isla Vista

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
  • package illustration

    Shop smart

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

Top Car Deals in Isla Vista

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

Don't see what you're looking for?

See all car rentals in Isla Vista
View all cars
Lowest prices found within the past 2 days. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

What you need to know for your Isla Vista car rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Isla Vista

Renting a car in Isla Vista offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore this vibrant neighborhood and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create travel plans that suit your needs. Whether you are seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly activities, having a vehicle allows you to visit key destinations conveniently. For example, Isla Vista Beach is perfect for those looking to enjoy beach activities right in the area. If you're interested in city experiences, Upper State Street is only 7 miles away, while the historic Mission Santa Barbara, located 9 miles from Isla Vista, is ideal for cultural exploration. Additionally, you can venture to nearby cities like Goleta, which features El Capitan State Beach and more, or Hope Ranch, just 5 miles away, known for its scenic Santa Barbara County Courthouse. With a rental car, you can effortlessly explore these diverse locations and make the most of your trip to Isla Vista and beyond.

Most popular car rentals around Isla Vista

  • Midsize: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases—ideal for couples and families. This option provides a comfortable balance of space and fuel efficiency, making it perfect for exploring Isla Vista and its surroundings at your leisure.
  • Compact SUV: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 medium suitcases—ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families. The compact SUV offers a higher driving position and versatility, allowing you to navigate both urban streets and scenic routes with ease.
  • Fullsize: Accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases—ideal for families and groups. The fullsize car provides ample space for everyone and their luggage, ensuring a relaxed journey as you explore the attractions around Isla Vista.

Top rated car suppliers around Isla Vista

  • Enterprise: Located 2 miles away from Isla Vista, Enterprise is a highly-rated car rental supplier with an overall score of 8 out of 10. Known for its friendly service and clean vehicles, customers appreciate the short wait times when picking up their rentals. The most popular vehicles booked through Enterprise are the Midsize SUV and Standard, making it a great choice for those looking for comfort and space during their travels.
  • Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is conveniently located just 1 mile from Isla Vista and is recognized for its competitive pricing. Travelers find their rates to be as expected, making it a budget-friendly option. The most commonly rented vehicles from Thrifty include Midsize and Fullsize Pickup trucks, perfect for those needing extra cargo space or planning outdoor adventures.
  • Alamo Rent A Car: Also situated 2 miles away from Isla Vista, Alamo Rent A Car is a popular choice among travelers. While specific ratings are not highlighted, Alamo is known for offering a range of vehicles that cater to various needs. The Midsize SUV and Compact SUV are the most booked options, providing a balance of comfort and efficiency for exploring the beautiful surroundings of Isla Vista.

Where to stay around Isla Vista

  • Goleta: Nestled within Goleta, Isla Vista offers a vibrant beach experience with Isla Vista Beach and El Capitan State Beach nearby, making it ideal for beach vacations. Visitors can enjoy the stunning local scenery and partake in outdoor adventures, including exploring national state parks. The area features a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to wineries, ensuring you can indulge in delightful local cuisine during your stay.
  • North State: Located 7 miles from Isla Vista, North State is a family-friendly neighborhood that boasts a mix of outdoor activities and city-themed experiences. With Upper State Street as a key highlight, visitors can explore shopping areas and theaters. The Santa Barbara County Courthouse and Mission Santa Barbara add cultural depth to your stay. Nearby beaches and pubs offer additional options for relaxation and dining.
  • Hope Ranch: Just 5 miles from Isla Vista, Hope Ranch is a picturesque village perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and beautiful scenery. With access to stunning beaches like Goleta Beach, visitors can enjoy an array of recreational activities. The area also features shopping options and local wineries for those looking to savor regional flavors. Key attractions such as the Santa Barbara County Courthouse enhance the cultural experience during your visit.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Isla Vista

  1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best choice for your journey.
  2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to secure lower prices and enhance your options, particularly during peak travel seasons.
  3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come at a lower rental cost and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
  4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and some vehicle categories—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to making a reservation.
  5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling arrangements, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in such cases.
  6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at the airport often incurs a surcharge, but the added 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 in case of unexpected events during your trip. It’s easy to add rental car insurance when booking through Expedia.
  9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to embark on 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 vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Isla Vista

The best value period to rent a car in and around Isla Vista is February, as prices are slightly low and demand is average. January and February generally see the quietest times, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers. May also offers slightly low prices with average demand, serving as a nice shoulder month. However, October tends to be the most expensive month, with prices rising and demand remaining steady, while November follows with moderately high prices and slightly low demand.

 

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconDemandprice iconPricing
January55.6°F (13.1°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February55.0°F (12.8°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
March56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainSunnyAverageAverage
April60.3°F (15.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June68.2°F (20.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
July72.1°F (22.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
August72.9°F (22.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
September71.6°F (22.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October66.7°F (19.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
November60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
December55.2°F (12.9°C)Light RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly High

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$51
 
Our second best deal of the day
$54
 
Our third best deal of the day
$56
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

Frequently asked questions

What happens if I need to cancel my Isla Vista car reservation?
Don't stress. You should get all of your money back if you cancel at least six hours before the scheduled pickup time. Your itinerary contains information about this, as does our Customer Service Portal. Not all prepaid rentals qualify for a refund though, so you may want to read through the rental policy.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Isla Vista with Expedia?
Scoring the best deal on your Isla Vista rental car is a piece of cake with Expedia. Choose your preferred car class, add some details and compare the offers across major brands. Why not add hotels and flights to your booking? You'll unlock terrific discounts when you combine your bookings into a package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Isla Vista?
You need to be at least 21 to pick up the keys to a rental car in Isla Vista. Take note that young drivers may be restricted to renting from a few car classes, such as compact and medium size. Higher age limits generally apply for larger and luxury vehicles. Many providers will also charge a young renter fee. Read through the rules before booking and factor any extra fees into your travel budget.
What do you need to rent a car in Isla Vista?
Be prepared to present a valid driver's license and a credit card in your name at the rental counter. Prior to pickup, check with your rental provider whether anything else is needed. For example, you may also need to provide proof of insurance.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Isla Vista?
Yes, and you can find your ideal set of wheels on our long-term car rental deals page. Just enter your trip dates and we'll show you incredible offers from numerous leading companies.
Where can I find an Isla Vista car rental if I am younger than 25?
If you're a younger driver looking for a rental in Isla Vista, we recommend reading the terms and conditions of the various car rental companies you're interested in. Some may rent to drivers under 25, some may not. There may be additional costs if you're between 21 and 24 years old. To avoid any unpleasant surprises at the rental desk, make sure you know what to expect.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Isla Vista?
After meticulously planning your road trip, don't skimp on safety — purchase collision protection while booking your Isla Vista rental vehicle with Expedia. There are many advantages to this plan, including up to $35,000 in primary coverage for accident damage, theft and vandalism. Plus, with no deductible and round-the-clock emergency help, you'll be able to breathe a little easier should the unexpected occur.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia