$35 Car Rental Salinas, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Salinas

Renting a car in Salinas offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as the California Rodeo Grounds and the National Steinbeck Center, both located in the city. For those seeking adventure, the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is only 8 miles away, making it convenient to enjoy a day of motorsport excitement. A rental car also allows you to venture into nearby destinations like Prunedale and Corral de Tierra, where you can experience the beauty of Monterey Bay and other local highlights. Travelers looking to take in scenic views will appreciate the ease of accessing outdoor areas and beach experiences. Additionally, managing luggage becomes hassle-free, allowing you to focus on your sightseeing plans without the stress of public transportation schedules. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or friends, renting a car provides a practical solution for enjoying all that Salinas and its surroundings have to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Salinas

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for travelers in Salinas, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for an economical and efficient way to explore the area, while also managing their luggage with ease.
• Mini Van: Perfect for larger groups, the Mini Van accommodates up to 8 travelers and provides room for up to 6 large suitcases. This vehicle is great for families or groups traveling together, ensuring everyone has ample space for both passengers and luggage while enjoying their adventures in and around Salinas.
• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups, as it comfortably seats 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases. This option combines spaciousness with versatility, making it perfect for those looking to navigate the scenic routes and attractions in Salinas with comfort and convenience.

Top rated car suppliers in Salinas

• Hertz: With a rental location conveniently situated in Salinas, Hertz is a top choice for travelers seeking flexibility during their trip. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers an impressive selection of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles being the most booked options. This supplier is perfect for those who want to explore the stunning attractions around Salinas at their own pace, making it an excellent choice for your adventure.
• Enterprise: Enterprise also has a rental location in Salinas, providing travelers with exceptional convenience. This supplier is highly regarded for its customer service and offers a diverse fleet of vehicles, including Midsize and Premium SUVs. Whether you are planning a leisurely drive along the coast or need a reliable vehicle for a longer journey, Enterprise is well-equipped to meet your needs during your stay in Salinas.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another fantastic option with a rental location in Salinas. This supplier is known for its affordability and value, making it a popular choice among travelers. Thrifty offers a variety of vehicles, with Midsize and Fullsize pickups being the most popular among customers. This flexibility allows you to manage your luggage easily while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Salinas and its surroundings.

Where to stay in and around Salinas

• Seaside: Located 11 miles from Salinas, Seaside offers a wonderful mix of outdoor experiences and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views at Fort Ord Dunes State Park, perfect for adventure seekers. The vibrant Cannery Row provides a lively atmosphere for city exploration, while the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca appeals to motorsports enthusiasts. With plenty of dining options nearby, including restaurants and wineries, Seaside is a great choice for those looking to enjoy both relaxation and excitement.
• Marina: Just 8 miles from Salinas, Marina is an excellent destination for outdoor lovers and beachgoers. The Marina Dunes Preserve showcases beautiful coastal scenery, while Marina State Beach invites visitors to unwind by the ocean. For those interested in city life, Cannery Row is also accessible. The area is rich in dining choices, from local restaurants to wineries, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking a blend of nature and culinary experiences.
• Oldtown Salinas: Situated around the Salinas area, Oldtown Salinas is a charming neighborhood perfect for those seeking outdoor activities and scenic views. The National Steinbeck Center offers a glimpse into the region's cultural heritage, while the nearby WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca caters to motorsport fans. With a variety of nearby dining options, Oldtown Salinas is a convenient base for exploring the local attractions and enjoying the vibrant community atmosphere.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to find the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're more likely to access lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver 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 fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges. This is usually the most cost-effective option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well—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 a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the 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 help protect you from unexpected costs and provide peace of mind during your trip. It's easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional expenses.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Salinas

The best value time to rent a car in and around Salinas is April, when prices are at their lowest and demand is slightly high. March and January also offer good options, with slightly low prices and average demand. However, the busiest and most expensive period tends to be in July, when demand peaks. August also sees higher prices, although demand returns to average levels. Following these months, October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	50.9°F (10.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	53.8°F (12.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
May	56.3°F (13.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	60.6°F (15.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
October	60.8°F (16.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	54.7°F (12.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Salinas

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Salinas

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $35.

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.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals