$59 Car Rental Port of San Diego, CA

These Port of San Diego insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 15, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around Port of San Diego

Renting a car around the Port of San Diego is a practical choice for travelers who want the freedom to explore at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage while visiting nearby attractions such as the USS Midway Museum, located less than 1 mile away, or Seaport Village, which is also less than 1 mile from the port. For those looking to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Balboa Park, it is conveniently located just 2 miles away. A rental car allows you to navigate the vibrant city of San Diego and its surrounding neighborhoods, including Downtown San Diego and the Gaslamp Quarter, which both feature numerous cultural and outdoor experiences. Whether you're traveling with family or friends, having a car gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary and explore popular destinations like Mission Bay and Mission Beach without the hassle of public transportation. This convenience is especially beneficial for those looking to enjoy a friendly atmosphere and engage with the local culture while making the most of their trip to the Port of San Diego.

Most popular car rentals near Port of San Diego

• Standard SUV: This popular choice accommodates 5 travelers comfortably with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. The Standard SUV is ideal for couples, families, or groups looking to explore the attractions around the Port of San Diego at their own pace. With ample room for both passengers and luggage, it offers the flexibility needed for a hassle-free travel experience.
• Midsize SUV: Perfect for those traveling with a bit more gear, the Midsize SUV accommodates 5 travelers and provides room for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is great for families, couples, or small groups who want the extra space without sacrificing maneuverability. It combines comfort and versatility, making it an excellent choice for your San Diego adventure.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car option is an excellent choice for larger families or groups, as it accommodates 5 travelers with the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This vehicle type ensures you have plenty of space for all your luggage while maintaining comfort throughout your journey. Whether you’re heading out for a day trip or a longer stay, the Fullsize car offers a reliable and spacious solution.

Top rated car suppliers near Port of San Diego

• Sixt: Sixt is a popular choice for car rentals near Port of San Diego, located just 1 mile away. This supplier is known for its friendly service and has an overall rating of 7 out of 10. Travelers frequently opt for their Midsize SUV and Standard SUV options, making it a great choice for those looking to explore the area comfortably.
• Fox Rental Cars: Also situated 1 mile from Port of San Diego, Fox Rental Cars offers a variety of vehicles, with Midsize and Fullsize cars being the most booked options. Their convenient location and selection cater well to travelers wanting to navigate the San Diego area with ease.
• Thrifty Car Rental: With two rental locations, the nearest Thrifty Car Rental is less than 1 mile away from Port of San Diego. This supplier is favored for its Midsize SUV and Fullsize options, providing travelers with a reliable range of vehicles to suit different needs and preferences.

Where to stay near Port of San Diego

• Coronado: Located 2 miles from the Port of San Diego, Coronado is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. This charming city features beautiful beaches, including Coronado Beach, perfect for beach vacations. Visitors can also explore historic sites and enjoy shopping at local centers. Don't miss the USS Midway Museum for a glimpse into maritime history, and Seaport Village for a delightful marina experience.
• Coronado Island: Also situated 2 miles from the Port of San Diego, Coronado Island offers a picturesque setting for outdoor and family activities. With its stunning beaches and family-friendly attractions, it’s a great spot to unwind. Key highlights include the USS Midway Museum and Coronado Beach, both suitable for a relaxing beach getaway. Seaport Village is nearby, providing various dining options and a vibrant atmosphere.
• San Diego: As the main city surrounding the Port of San Diego, San Diego is perfect for those seeking a blend of family, outdoor, and beach experiences. The city boasts popular attractions such as Mission Bay, ideal for scenic views and outdoor activities, and Mission Beach, perfect for beach vacations. Balboa Park offers a beautiful garden setting and cultural experiences, all conveniently located within the city.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Port of San Diego

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting the vehicle type and features that suit your needs. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to find the perfect option for your trip.
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. Booking in advance often allows you to secure lower rates and better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles typically come with lower rental costs and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals 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 certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This also applies to renters over the age of 70. Be sure to verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are also acceptable; just remember to return the vehicle empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind during your travels. Adding car rental insurance when booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan to take long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional fees.
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 around Port of San Diego

The best value period for renting a car around the Port of San Diego is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average to slightly high. April and May also offer moderate pricing with slightly low demand, making them good options as well. However, August tends to be the most expensive month, characterized by high demand and rental costs. March is also quite busy, with prices rising along with demand during that time.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
March	58.1°F (14.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	66.4°F (19.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
July	70.5°F (21.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
August	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	72.0°F (22.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
October	68.2°F (20.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low