These San Clemente insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: .

Car Rental San Clemente
Search and Compare from Car Companies in San Clemente
Featured car rental suppliers
Compare from agencies

- Change your mindPenalty-free cancellation on many/select car rentals
- Shop smartCompare car suppliers and package your flight, hotel, and car to save
Top Car Deals in San Clemente
* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.
Economy
- 4 people

Compact
- 4 people

Midsize
- 5 people

SUV
- 5 people

What you need to know for your San Clemente car rental
Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Clemente
Renting a car in San Clemente offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create travel plans that suit your needs. This is especially beneficial for those seeking beach and outdoor adventure experiences. Within a short drive, you can visit San Jacinto Beach, located only 2 miles away, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. For a cultural experience, head to Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Church, just 8 miles from San Clemente. If you're interested in artisanal crafts, Playita Mía Artisanal Shipyard is 19 miles away and worth the trip. Additionally, you can explore nearby cities such as San Jacinto, 1 mile away, and El Pueblito, 5 miles away, both featuring attractions like the scenic Baha de Caraquez Beach. Renting a car makes it convenient to visit these destinations and enjoy everything the region has to offer without the constraints of public transportation. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or solo, having a rental car enhances your sightseeing experience in and around San Clemente.
Where to stay around San Clemente
- San Clemente: Nestled within Charapoto, San Clemente offers a serene beach experience perfect for relaxation. The nearby family beaches provide ideal spots for families looking to enjoy the sun and sand. Additionally, visitors can explore local shopping options at nearby shopping centers to enrich their stay.
- Charapoto: As the city where San Clemente is situated, Charapoto is a gateway to stunning outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. You can visit the famous San Jacinto Beach or Baha de Caraquez Beach, both renowned for their suitability for beach vacations. Cultural enthusiasts can explore Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe Church, adding a layer of history to your trip.
- Crucita: Located 7 miles from San Clemente, Crucita is known for its adventurous beach experiences. Travelers can partake in outdoor activities and visit the beautiful San Jacinto Beach. The Playita Mía Artisanal Shipyard is another local attraction worth checking out, providing an insight into the region's culture and craftsmanship.
- Bahia de Caraquez: Situated 13 miles away from San Clemente, Bahia de Caraquez is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and outdoor adventures. With a plethora of beaches like Canoa Beach and Baha de Caraquez Beach, you can enjoy vibrant beach life. The area is also known for birdwatching and offers various coffee spots to relax after a day of exploration.
10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Clemente
- Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you’re in need of an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to identify the ideal match for your journey.
- 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 secures lower rates and provides better availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
- Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
- 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 prior to booking.
- Check fuel policies: Some rentals implement a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the best option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure the car is returned empty in that case.
- Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience might justify the extra cost.
- Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
- Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is simple when booking through Expedia.
- Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
- Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.
Finding the cheapest car rentals in San Clemente
Using our Search Wizard
If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter San Clemente into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in San Clemente and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.
Renting a car in San Clemente
Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in San Clemente. 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 San Clemente
Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book .
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.
We all love being rewarded
One Key members save 10% or more on select hotels, cars, activities and vacation rentals. Not only that, earn OneKeyCash for every dollar spent on eligible hotels, vacation rentals, flights, car rentals, and more when you book across our family of brands: Expedia, Hotels.com and VRBO. Learn more and join today.
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 | |
Our second best deal of the day | |
Our third best deal of the day | |
From the airport to your hotel | Airport Transportation |
From popular domestic and international airports | Airport Car Rentals |
Frequently asked questions
How much is a rental car per day in San Clemente?
Can I rent a car from Eloy Alfaro Intl. Airport (MEC)?
What happens if I need to cancel my San Clemente car reservation?
Where can I go on a road trip from San Clemente?
- La Libertad is 110 miles from San Clemente. Famous tourist attractions like El Paseo Shopping La Peninsula deserve to be high on your must-see list here.
- Why not check out everything on offer in Quevedo too? Unmissable attractions here include Quevedo Shopping Center. Quevedo is approximately 75 miles from San Clemente.
- El Panecillo is 140 miles from San Clemente and is one of the region's most spectacular nature spots. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the fresh air here.
How do I find the best car rental deals in San Clemente with Expedia?
What do you need to rent a car in San Clemente?
What is the cheapest car rental in San Clemente?
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in San Clemente?
Where can I find a San Clemente car rental if I am younger than 25?
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in San Clemente?
Can I drive in San Clemente with my current driver's license?
- Age restrictions: You'll need to be at least 25 in most places to rent a car. If you're younger, it might still be possible to rent a car but you'll have to pay a Young Driver's Surcharge. Additional restrictions may also apply to the types of cars you can rent.
- Driving limitations: Be sure to read the rules and regulations before sliding behind the wheel. Usually, you can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or on certain types of rugged terrain with a rental vehicle.
Explore a world of travel with Expedia
- La Sequita Hotels
- Beach Hotels in Crucita
- Hostels in Bahia de Caraquez
- 3 Star Hotels in San Vicente
- Apartments in San Jacinto
- 3 Star Hotels in Crucita
- Hostels in San Clemente
- San Clemente Hotels
- Hotel Wedding Venues Hotels in Bahia de Caraquez
- San Jacinto Hotels
- Apartments in Jaramijó
- Condo Rentals in Bahia de Caraquez
- Bahia de Caraquez Hotels
- Pet-Friendly Hotels in Crucita
- El Pueblito Hotels
- Hotels with a Pool in Crucita
- San Vicente Hotels
- Crucita Hotels
- Rocafuerte Hotels
- Beach Hotels in Bahia de Caraquez
- Condo Rentals in Crucita
- Jaramijó Hotels
