$13 Car Rental Santa Monica Pier, CA

These Santa Monica Pier insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 23, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental around Santa Monica Pier

Renting a car near Santa Monica Pier offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families and those traveling with luggage, as you can easily manage your belongings while visiting various attractions. Santa Monica Beach, located less than 1 mile away, is perfect for a relaxing beach day. If you're interested in more city experiences, Rodeo Drive is only 7 miles away, while the Venice Beach Boardwalk, ideal for family outdoor activities, is a short 3 miles from the pier.

A rental car also allows you to conveniently explore nearby destinations. The bustling metropolis of Los Angeles, where Santa Monica Pier is situated, features numerous points of interest, including Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain. Additionally, Downtown Santa Monica is home to Santa Monica Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and Venice Beach, making it easy for you to discover these beautiful locations. With a rental car, you can enjoy a friendly and engaging travel experience while ensuring you make the most of your trip to Santa Monica.

Most popular car rentals near Santa Monica Pier

• Midsize SUV: This car type is a top choice for visitors around Santa Monica Pier, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for 3 large suitcases. It’s perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want to explore the area comfortably. The midsize SUV offers the versatility needed for a day at the beach or a night out, while also providing ample room for luggage and other travel essentials.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or groups, the standard SUV accommodates up to 5 travelers and can hold up to 2 medium suitcases. This option strikes a balance between comfort and space, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy the scenic routes around Santa Monica Pier. With its flexible capacity, you can effortlessly manage your belongings while enjoying the freedom of your journey.
• Compact: The compact car option is well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or families, accommodating 5 travelers and up to 3 medium suitcases. It’s a practical choice for those wanting to navigate the bustling streets near Santa Monica Pier with ease. Compact cars offer the convenience of easy parking and fuel efficiency while ensuring you can carry essential items for your day out.

Top rated car suppliers near Santa Monica Pier

• Sixt: Sixt has 2 rental locations near Santa Monica Pier, with the closest being less than 1 mile away. Travelers appreciate Sixt for its friendly service and the flexibility it offers. The most booked vehicles from this supplier are Midsize SUVs and Compacts, making it an excellent choice for those looking for comfort and agility while exploring the area.
• Avis: Avis operates 5 rental locations near Santa Monica Pier, with the nearest location also less than 1 mile away. Known for its wide selection of vehicles, Avis is a popular choice among travelers. The most sought-after rentals include Midsize and Standard SUVs, providing ample space and comfort for families or groups looking to enjoy the scenic beauty of Santa Monica.
• Budget: Budget offers 5 convenient rental locations near Santa Monica Pier, with the closest being under 1 mile away. This supplier is recognized for providing great value, making it an attractive option for travelers on a budget. The most frequently booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, ensuring that you can find the right fit for your travel needs without breaking the bank.

Where to stay near Santa Monica Pier

• Santa Monica: Staying in Santa Monica places you right next to Santa Monica Pier, a vibrant hub for entertainment and family activities. The area offers easy access to Santa Monica Beach, perfect for beach vacations, as well as nearby shopping areas and restaurants. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and explore attractions like the iconic pier itself and the surrounding tourist precinct, making it an ideal choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Venice: Located only 2 miles away from Santa Monica Pier, Venice offers a unique beach experience with its famous boardwalk and lively atmosphere. This neighborhood is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities and family-friendly environments. Venice Beach and Muscle Beach are top highlights, providing opportunities for fun in the sun. The vibrant shopping area adds to the charm, making it a great option for those wanting to explore the coastal lifestyle.
• Los Angeles: While a bit further from Santa Monica Pier, staying in Los Angeles can broaden your experience with access to various entertainment options. The city features attractions like Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain, both suitable for family vacations. Enjoy the diverse food and drink scene, along with cultural experiences at theaters and educational venues. This metropolis provides a city-themed experience that complements your coastal adventure.

10 tips to save on your car rental around Santa Monica Pier

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting specific vehicle types and features. Whether you need an SUV for added 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.
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 travel dates. Booking in advance often allows you to lock in lower rates and ensures better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars tend to be more affordable to rent and are easier to maneuver and park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance among cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. 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 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 usually the most advantageous option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car with an empty tank 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 only 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 easy to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, look for rental options with unlimited mileage to steer clear of 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 around Santa Monica Pier

The best time to rent a car around Santa Monica Pier is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. These months provide a quieter experience for visitors. April and May also present good opportunities, with average prices and slightly lower demand in May. However, March tends to be the most expensive month, with both prices and demand peaking. Following March, June through August see an increase in demand, particularly in August, which can lead to higher rental costs.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	59.0°F (15.0°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	65.3°F (18.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	69.8°F (21.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
July	74.3°F (23.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	75.7°F (24.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
October	69.6°F (20.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High