$37 Car Rental Santa Cruz

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Cruz

Renting a car in Santa Cruz offers unparalleled freedom and flexibility for exploration. This vibrant city serves as an excellent base for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and families eager to discover the stunning landscapes of Madeira at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily transport your luggage and adjust your travel plans on a whim. Within close proximity, you can visit the beautiful Palmeiras Beach, located only 0.1 miles away, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. A short drive of 6 miles takes you to the enchanting Madeira Botanical Garden, ideal for family outings and romantic strolls. For breathtaking views, Ponta da Oliveira is right in the area, offering scenic beach experiences. Additionally, you can venture to nearby cities such as Machico, just 3 miles away, which features its own beach and stunning points of interest. Canico and Gaula, both in the vicinity, provide further opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. With a rental car, you can maximize your time and create unforgettable memories as you explore the diverse attractions around Santa Cruz.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Cruz

• Compact: The compact car is a popular choice for travelers in Santa Cruz, accommodating up to 5 passengers and offering space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families looking to navigate the city and surrounding areas easily. Its smaller size allows for effortless maneuvering through tight streets and convenient parking, making it perfect for those wanting to explore at their own pace.
• Economy: The economy car option also fits up to 5 travelers, with room for up to 2 medium suitcases. This choice is particularly appealing for solo travelers and couples, as well as families seeking a budget-friendly vehicle. With its efficient fuel consumption and compact design, the economy car allows for flexible travel plans while providing a comfortable ride for those wanting to explore the beautiful landscapes around Santa Cruz.
• Midsize SUV: For those needing a bit more space, the midsize SUV fits up to 5 passengers and can accommodate up to 3 large suitcases. This option is great for families, couples, or small groups who desire extra comfort and room for luggage. Midsize SUVs are particularly suited for outdoor adventures or beach trips, providing the versatility needed for various travel experiences in and around Santa Cruz.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Cruz

• Sixt: With a rental location in the Santa Cruz area, Sixt is a popular choice for travelers seeking flexibility and convenience. They offer a range of vehicles, with the Compact SUV and Midsize SUV being the most booked options. Sixt is known for its friendly service, making your car rental experience enjoyable and efficient.
• Guerin: Also located in Santa Cruz, Guerin provides a solid selection of vehicles for your journey. Their most popular rentals include Compact and Midsize SUVs, catering to those who prefer a little extra space and comfort. Travelers appreciate Guerin for its reliable service and straightforward booking process, ensuring you can hit the road with ease.
• Europcar: Europcar's rental location in Santa Cruz makes it a convenient option for tourists. They specialize in Economy and Compact cars, perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly yet comfortable ride. With a reputation for excellent customer service and a streamlined rental process, Europcar is a great choice for exploring the beautiful Madeira region.

Where to go in and around Santa Cruz

• Machico: Located 3 miles from Santa Cruz, Machico is a charming city known for its outdoor activities and beautiful beach experiences. Visitors can enjoy the stunning Machico Beach, perfect for relaxation, or explore the scenic Sao Lourenco Point. Families will appreciate the Palheiro Gardens, offering a lovely botanical setting. The area's attractions, including a marina and various parks, make Machico a great destination for a family vacation. The best months to visit are June to July and September when traveler numbers peak.
• Canico: Situated within the Santa Cruz area, Canico is a parish that attracts travelers seeking outdoor adventures and beach activities. With highlights such as Reis Magos Beach, this location is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The Madeira Botanical Garden provides a picturesque spot for families and couples alike, while Ponta da Oliveira offers stunning scenery. Canico's amenities also include golf courses and a casino, ensuring a variety of activities. Peak visitor months are March to April and September, making it a lively spot during those times.
• Gaula: Gaula is another parish in the Santa Cruz region, known for its eco-friendly and outdoor experiences. Travelers can unwind at Palmeiras Beach or enjoy the beautiful surroundings at the Madeira Botanical Garden. Ponta da Oliveira is also nearby, providing scenic views. This area features parks and mountains, making it suitable for families and nature enthusiasts. Gaula sees an increase in visitors during April, July, and September, making it a great destination to explore during these months.

10 tips to save on your Santa Cruz car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and features. Whether you need an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for cost-effectiveness, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices vary with demand, so it's wise to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're more likely to secure lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars typically have lower rental rates and are easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size options strike a good balance between affordability, 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 not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
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 is typically the best choice. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for picking up your rental car at the airport, but the added convenience may justify the cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies exclusively 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 of unforeseen events 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, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Santa Cruz

The best value period to rent a car in and around Santa Cruz is February, when both prices and demand are low. January and February are generally the quietest months, making them ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Following that, April offers average prices and demand, while May and June see a slight increase in both. The most expensive period arrives in August, where demand spikes and prices are at their highest, alongside slightly high demand in July and September.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	62.6°F (17.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	61.3°F (16.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
March	61.7°F (16.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
June	68.4°F (20.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
July	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	73.0°F (22.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	72.7°F (22.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	71.2°F (21.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	64.9°F (18.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Santa Cruz

Using our Search Wizard

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

Renting a car in Santa Cruz

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

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $37.

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