$46 Car Rental San Rafael, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around San Rafael

Renting a car in San Rafael offers travelers the freedom to explore this vibrant city and its surroundings at their own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage while visiting local attractions such as Mission San Rafael Arcangel, a cultural gem right in the heart of the city. For those seeking scenic views, the iconic Golden Gate Bridge is only 11 miles away, and Pier 39, a lovely jetty, is just 13 miles from San Rafael. The flexibility of having your own vehicle makes it easy to venture to nearby cities like San Anselmo and Ross, both just 2 miles away, where you can discover additional sights like the historic San Anselmo Town Hall and the natural beauty of Muir Woods National Monument. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy beautiful scenery, renting a car in San Rafael enhances your travel experience by allowing you to customize your itinerary. Enjoy the adventure with the convenience of a rental car, making your trip memorable and hassle-free.

Most popular car rentals in San Rafael

• Midsize: The Midsize car is a popular choice for travelers in San Rafael, accommodating up to 5 travelers and providing space for up to 3 large suitcases. This option is ideal for couples and families looking for a balance of comfort and convenience. With the ability to manage luggage easily, a Midsize vehicle allows you to explore the area at your own pace, making it a practical choice for your journey.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize car is another highly booked option, perfect for families and groups. It comfortably seats 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This flexibility makes it an excellent choice for those who need extra space for luggage or additional passengers. Renting a Fullsize vehicle in San Rafael ensures that you can enjoy your travels without feeling cramped, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.
• Standard: The Standard car type is well-suited for couples and families, accommodating up to 5 travelers with room for up to 3 large suitcases. This option offers a good balance between size and fuel efficiency, making it a smart choice for those who want to explore San Rafael while keeping their travel plans flexible. The Standard car provides the necessary space for your belongings while still being easy to navigate through the area.

Top rated car suppliers in San Rafael

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a top choice for travelers in San Rafael, with one rental location available. Customers appreciate the flexibility this supplier provides, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace. Popular vehicle options include Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it easy to manage your luggage while enjoying the scenic routes. The friendly staff and efficient service further enhance the overall rental experience.
• Hertz: With a rental location conveniently situated in San Rafael, Hertz is another preferred supplier for visitors. Known for its reliable service, Hertz offers a range of vehicles, with Midsize SUVs and Economy cars being the most booked choices. Travelers value the convenience and accessibility that Hertz provides, allowing for a smooth and enjoyable trip as you navigate the attractions in and around San Rafael.
• Avis: Avis also has a rental location in San Rafael, making it a popular option for tourists. The supplier is favored for offering a variety of vehicles, particularly Midsize SUVs and Economy cars, which cater to different travel needs. Avis is recognized for its efficient service, helping travelers easily transition from pickup to their adventures, ensuring a seamless experience as you explore the beautiful surroundings.

Where to stay in and around San Rafael

• San Anselmo: Located 2 miles away from San Rafael, San Anselmo is a charming city known for its outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Travelers can explore landmarks like the historic Golden Gate Bridge and the Robson-Harrington House. The area also offers various recreational spots, theaters, and educational venues. After a day of exploration, visitors can unwind at local wineries or drinking pubs, making it a delightful choice for accommodation.
• Santa Venetia: Situated around San Rafael, Santa Venetia is a vibrant neighborhood perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With easy access to scenic nature reserves and national parks, it offers a great backdrop for adventure seekers. Key attractions include the historic Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39, along with sweet treat options nearby. This lively area provides an excellent base for enjoying both outdoor activities and local culture.
• Ross: Just 2 miles from San Rafael, Ross is an inviting city ideal for family adventures and outdoor experiences. Visitors can explore the beautiful Muir Woods National Monument and the historic Golden Gate Bridge, which are in close proximity. The area boasts shopping centers and restaurants, along with nearby wineries. Staying in Ross allows travelers to enjoy both recreational activities and local dining options, making it a great family-friendly destination.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around San Rafael

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly options, utilize the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal choice for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's wise to secure your car well before your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy better availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. 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.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—like SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. Renters over 70 years old may also face similar restrictions. Always verify age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is usually the best. Others might provide 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: You may often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might make it worthwhile.
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. It’s easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent extra 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 San Rafael

The best value period to rent a car in and around San Rafael is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. February offers a quieter experience, with slightly low demand and average prices. March and April also provide good options, maintaining slightly low prices. However, August stands out as the most expensive month, with both high prices and high demand. June and July tend to follow closely behind, with slightly high prices and increased rental activity.

Finding the cheapest car rentals in San Rafael

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in San Rafael

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $46.

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