$48 Car Rental Woodside, CA

These Woodside insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: August 30, 2026.

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Woodside

Renting a car in Woodside offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for scenic experiences. With a rental car, you can conveniently manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans. Within a short drive, you can visit key attractions such as the San Francisco Bay and California's Great America, both located 16 miles away, or the Computer History Museum, just 10 miles from Woodside.

Additionally, exploring nearby destinations like Sunnyvale, 13 miles away, allows you to experience Historic Murphy Avenue and the Winchester Mystery House. Neighborhoods such as West of the Alameda and Farm Hills, both 2 miles away, also feature outdoor activities and attractions like Filoli. A rental car ensures you can easily navigate these areas, making it an ideal choice for travelers eager to discover the diverse offerings around Woodside without relying on public transportation.

Most popular car rentals around Woodside

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travelers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it a great choice for families, couples, or small groups. Midsize SUVs offer a comfortable ride and ample storage space, perfect for those who want to explore the scenic areas around Woodside while ensuring everyone and their luggage fit comfortably.
• Standard SUV: Ideal for couples, families, or groups, this vehicle comfortably seats 5 travelers and has space for up to 2 medium suitcases. Standard SUVs provide a balance of comfort and versatility, allowing you to navigate both urban and rural settings around Woodside with ease. Enjoy a spacious interior while having the flexibility to explore on your own schedule.
• Compact: With the capacity to accommodate 5 travelers and up to 3 medium suitcases, the Compact car is perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families. This option is especially suitable for those who prefer a smaller vehicle that can easily maneuver through city streets and offer convenient parking solutions while still providing enough space for your belongings during your trip in and around Woodside.

Top rated car suppliers around Woodside

• Hertz: With 3 convenient rental locations, Hertz is a top choice for travelers in Woodside. Located only 4 miles away, it offers a wide selection of vehicles, making it easy to find the perfect ride for your adventure. The most booked cars include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, ideal for exploring the scenic beauty of the area while ensuring comfort and space for your luggage.
• Enterprise: Situated 4 miles from Woodside, Enterprise features 1 rental location, making it a reliable option for those seeking convenience. Known for excellent customer service, they provide a variety of vehicles, with Midsize and Compact SUVs being the most popular choices. This allows you to navigate the beautiful surroundings of Woodside with ease.
• Thrifty Car Rental: Thrifty Car Rental is another great option, with 1 location just 4 miles from Woodside. This supplier is popular among travelers for its selection of vehicles, particularly the Midsize SUVs and Fullsize Pickups. Thrifty's offerings ensure that you can enjoy your trip with the right vehicle, allowing you to comfortably explore the attractions around Woodside.

Where to stay around Woodside

• Redwood City: As Woodside is situated within Redwood City, this area is perfect for those seeking a blend of outdoor, family, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore attractions such as the historic Filoli estate, which offers a glimpse into the area's rich history. The scenic San Francisco Bay is also nearby, providing stunning views and recreational opportunities. With various restaurants and wineries, Redwood City is an ideal base for travelers looking to enjoy both nature and culture.
• Palo Alto: Located 6 miles from Woodside, Palo Alto is a vibrant city known for its cultural and family-friendly atmosphere. Key attractions include the Palo Alto Art Center, where visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts scene, and the historic Stanford Memorial Church, a beautiful example of architecture and history. With ample shopping options and dining establishments nearby, Palo Alto makes for a convenient and enjoyable stay for travelers.
• Sunnyvale: Situated 13 miles from Woodside, Sunnyvale is a great destination for family-oriented and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the thrills at California's Great America amusement park or take a stroll along Historic Murphy Avenue, which offers a charming city vibe. With attractions such as the Winchester Mystery House and various shopping centers, Sunnyvale provides a mix of adventure and leisure, complemented by nearby wineries and restaurants for dining options.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Woodside

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer joyrides, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize filters on Expedia to discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. Reserving in advance often results in lower prices and increased availability, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years old may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and some vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which requires you to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favorable option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
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: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. 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 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 avoid incurring 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 Woodside

The best time to rent a car in and around Woodside is January, as it offers slightly low prices and average demand. Following that, February and March are also good options, with prices at average levels and slightly low demand. However, June through August sees increased prices and high demand, making it the most expensive period for rentals. July, in particular, tends to be the busiest month, while demand remains steady in October and November with average pricing.