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

Car Rental Santa Cruz
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Top Car Deals in Santa Cruz
* 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 Santa Cruz car rental
Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Cruz
Renting a car in Santa Cruz offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and embark on spontaneous adventures without the constraints of public transportation. If you’re looking for beach and outdoor experiences, you can easily visit Potipot Island, located 10 miles away, or enjoy the scenic views from Mapita Viewdeck, also 10 miles from Santa Cruz. For those who appreciate nature, Coto Waterfalls, located 18 miles away, is another great option. Additionally, a rental car allows you to explore nearby cities like Candelaria, 13 miles away, where you can find attractions such as Masinloc Oyon Bay Marine Reserve, or Infanta, just 10 miles away, known for its outdoor spots. You can also venture to Dasol, 17 miles away, for more beach and cave experiences. Whether you are traveling with family, friends, or as a couple, having a car enhances your sightseeing experience, making it easier to visit multiple locations and enjoy the stunning scenery of Central Luzon.
Where to stay around Santa Cruz
- Candelaria: Located 13 miles from Santa Cruz, Candelaria offers a vibrant city experience for travelers seeking family-friendly activities. Enjoy the local beach, explore historic civic buildings, or visit the Coto Waterfalls and Masinloc Oyon Bay Marine Reserve for a taste of nature. Families can also delight in the shopping centers and water parks available in the area. Candelaria is an excellent base for those looking to combine city life with outdoor adventures.
- Dasol: Situated 17 miles from Santa Cruz, Dasol is a picturesque city that attracts visitors looking for beach and outdoor scenery. The stunning Potipot Island and Bolo Beach offer beautiful spots for relaxation and recreation. Adventure seekers can explore the Arasass Caves, while shopping areas provide local goods. Dasol is ideal for travelers aiming to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy coastal vistas.
- Aguilar: Only 15 miles from Santa Cruz, Aguilar is perfect for those who appreciate outdoor activities and scenic views. With attractions like Lingayen Beach and the Urduja House, there's a mix of relaxation and cultural exploration. The Mapita Viewdeck offers breathtaking lookouts for romantic getaways or adventure seekers. Aguilar combines tranquil beach experiences with local history, making it a great option for diverse traveler interests.
10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Santa Cruz
- Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the best option for your journey.
- Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s wise to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
- Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are generally more affordable to rent and easier to navigate 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 fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
- 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. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can be acceptable too—just ensure the car is returned empty in that case.
- Save on city and airport pickups: You may incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but the added convenience might justify the cost.
- Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
- Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to add rental car insurance when booking through Expedia.
- Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra fees.
- Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is necessary to rent a car.
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 .
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.
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 Santa Cruz?
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Cruz car reservation?
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Cruz?
- You'll discover SM Mall of Asia and many more interesting sights in Manila. From Santa Cruz, it's around 100 miles away.
- Located 55 miles away, Baguio is also popular with travelers. Make sure you check out Camp John Hay while you're here. It's one of the reasons people love this colorful city.
- Make your way to Sabang Beach for a day out in nature. Pack a picnic to enjoy or just recharge your batteries in the fresh air. From Santa Cruz, it's approximately 170 miles away.
How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Santa Cruz?
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Cruz?
What side of the road do you drive on in Santa Cruz?
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Cruz?
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Santa Cruz?
Where can I find a Santa Cruz car rental if I am younger than 25?
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Santa Cruz?
Can I drive in Santa Cruz with my current driver's license?
- Age restrictions: You must 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 what kinds of cars you can rent.
- Driving limitations: Make sure you read the rules and regulations before sliding behind the wheel. You typically can't cross country borders, drive on ferries or on certain types of rugged terrain with a rental vehicle.