$27 Car Rental Santa Ana, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Ana

Renting a car in Santa Ana offers travelers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace. This is particularly beneficial for business travelers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts, as it allows for easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans. With a rental car, you can visit key attractions like Disneyland® Resort and Anaheim Convention Center, both located just 5 miles away, or venture to Knott's Berry Farm, which is 10 miles away for a day of adventure.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to explore nearby cities such as Anaheim, just 7 miles away, which features the same attractions, or Newport Beach, located 9 miles from Santa Ana, where you can enjoy the pier and nearby beaches. Irvine, only 6 miles away, offers educational and recreational sites like the University of California, Irvine. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, having your own vehicle ensures that you can make the most of your visit to Santa Ana and its vibrant surroundings.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Ana

• Midsize SUV: This option is a popular choice for families, couples, or small groups traveling in and around Santa Ana. With the capacity to comfortably fit 5 travelers and accommodate up to 3 large suitcases, the midsize SUV offers ample space for both passengers and luggage. Its versatility makes it ideal for exploring various attractions at your own pace, ensuring that you have the freedom to enjoy your trip without feeling cramped.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, and groups of up to 5 travelers, the standard SUV is a great option for your rental needs in Santa Ana. It can hold up to 2 medium suitcases, providing a balance between passenger comfort and luggage capacity. This vehicle is well-suited for those who want to enjoy a city-related experience while having the flexibility to venture out into the surrounding areas with ease.
• Fullsize: Ideal for families and larger groups, the fullsize vehicle fits 5 travelers and can accommodate up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. This makes it a great choice for those who need extra space for luggage or want to travel comfortably with a group. The fullsize option provides the freedom to explore Santa Ana and its surroundings, making it an excellent selection for travelers seeking both convenience and comfort.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Ana

• Enterprise: Enterprise has established itself as a leading car rental supplier in Santa Ana, boasting 3 rental locations throughout the area. With an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, it’s recognized for its friendly service and customer satisfaction. Travelers often choose this supplier for its popular Midsize SUV and Premium SUV options, making it an excellent choice for those looking to explore Santa Ana and its surroundings comfortably.
• Sixt: Sixt operates 1 rental location in Santa Ana and has an overall rating of 7 out of 10. Known for its friendly service, this supplier provides a reliable option for travelers seeking quality vehicles. The Midsize SUV and Standard SUV are among the most booked vehicles, offering flexibility and comfort for your journey around Santa Ana and the beautiful California coast.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental features 4 rental locations in Santa Ana, providing ample access for travelers in the area. This supplier is popular for its selection of Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, perfect for families or groups. While specific ratings are not mentioned, Thrifty is recognized for its convenient locations, making it a practical choice for those looking to explore the vibrant city and nearby attractions.

Where to go in and around Santa Ana

• Anaheim: Located 7 miles from Santa Ana, Anaheim is a vibrant city known for its family-friendly attractions. Key points of interest include the iconic Disneyland® Resort, perfect for entertainment and family vacations, and the Anaheim Convention Center, which caters to business travelers. For adventure seekers, Knott's Berry Farm offers an exciting amusement park experience. The best time to visit Anaheim is from March to April and July, as visitor numbers peak during these months.
• Newport Beach: Situated 9 miles away from Santa Ana, Newport Beach is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Notable attractions include the Newport Beach Pier, a picturesque jetty, and Crystal Cove Beach, which is perfect for a beach vacation. Visitors also enjoy the beautiful scenery and recreational activities available at this coastal city. Peak visitor numbers occur in April and June to July, making it an excellent time to explore this beachside paradise.
• Irvine: Just 6 miles from Santa Ana, Irvine is a city that blends family, business, and educational experiences. Visitors can explore the modern University of California, Irvine, or enjoy outdoor activities at the Orange County Great Park, which is suited for families and city vacations. Tanaka Farms provides an eco-friendly experience, showcasing local agriculture. The best times to visit Irvine align with Anaheim, peaking from March to April and July.

10 tips to save on your Santa Ana car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle types 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 Expedia's filters to discover the best option 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 early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and benefit from a wider selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in busy areas. Mid-size cars 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 categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might be restricted. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the 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 fees. This is generally the most economical option. Other rentals may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which can also be acceptable. Just remember to 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 convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
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 Santa Ana

The best time to rent a car in and around Santa Ana is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is slightly high. February also offers good value, as prices remain low with average demand. April is another quieter month with slightly low demand, making it an excellent shoulder period. However, August is the most expensive month, characterized by slightly high prices and high demand. July follows closely with similar trends, making summer a busier time for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
February	57.4°F (14.1°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	59.4°F (15.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
April	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
May	65.1°F (18.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	75.9°F (24.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	69.8°F (21.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
November	63.1°F (17.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	56.8°F (13.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santa Ana

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Santa Ana

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $27.

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