$34 Car Rental Santa Cruz, CA

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Top Car Deals in Santa Cruz

* Price found within the past 6 days. Click for updated prices.

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Lowest prices found within the past 11 hours. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Frequently asked questions

How much is a rental car per day in Santa Cruz?
Daily rental prices were as low as $34 within the past seven days. With rates like this, getting around Santa Cruz in your own set of wheels is an affordable and convenient way to see the sights.
Can I rent a car from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC)?
You sure can. Once you get to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC), you'll locate the rental outlets directly across from Terminal B. Arrange a ride with Dollar, Enterprise or Alamo. Thrifty and Fox are also worth having a look at.
What happens if I need to cancel my Santa Cruz car reservation?
When you cancel at least six hours prior to collecting the car, the majority of prepaid bookings qualify for a complete refund. However, not every one is eligible for this, so it's important to understand your cancellation policy. Read through your itinerary for the details or visit our Customer Service Portal to find out more.
Where can I go on a road trip from Santa Cruz?
Once you've been to all of the interesting attractions in Santa Cruz, there's plenty more to discover in the surrounding area. Grab the keys to a rental car, stow your luggage in the trunk and take to the open road. We've pulled together some drives you're sure to enjoy:

  • You'll find Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Concord and loads of other intriguing sights in Concord. From Santa Cruz, it's about 70 miles away.
  • Your next pit stop? Make it San Francisco, which is around 60 miles away. Pier 39 is one local hot spot you shouldn't miss.
  • Venture into the outdoors and inhale the fresh air at Glacier Point. It's 140 miles from Santa Cruz.

How do I find the best car rental deals in Santa Cruz with Expedia?
Nabbing an amazing deal on your Santa Cruz rental car is a breeze with Expedia. Choose your preferred ride, add some details and compare prices across popular suppliers. Why not add flights and hotels to your booking? You'll unlock even more savings when you create a vacation package.
How old do you have to be to rent a car in Santa Cruz?
Anyone with a valid driver's license 21 and over can rent a vehicle in Santa Cruz. While some suppliers may be willing to rent to drivers younger than 21, a fee will be added. Find out what ages the young renter fee applies to, and what it costs, before booking your ride. Suppliers also restrict the categories of cars available to young drivers. Higher age limits apply for luxury and specialty vehicles.
What do you need to rent a car in Santa Cruz?
A valid driver's license and a credit card in the same name are essentials. Don't want to take out the company's insurance plan? If that's the case, you may need proof of other coverage. Rules can differ between rental suppliers, so have a thorough read of your policy.
What is the cheapest car rental in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has no doubt had some very happy rental car drivers lately. Daily rates within the past seven days were as low as $34 and $35. These rates were available on Expedia, with a rental starting date within the next year. Prices and availability are subject to change and additional terms apply.
Can I rent a car for a month or longer in Santa Cruz?
You can rent a car for a month or even longer in Santa Cruz, so go ahead and extend your getaway! Simply enter your trip information into our long-term car rental deals page and find your perfect ride.
Where can I find a Santa Cruz car rental if I am younger than 25?
Some Santa Cruz outlets will rent cars to drivers under 25 years old, and others won't. Policies differ between suppliers, so you'll have to do your homework. Also, find out if there are extra costs. Some businesses will pass on a surcharge to young customers between 21 and 24. Always look through the terms and conditions so you know what to expect.
What insurance should I choose for my car rental in Santa Cruz?
For a stress-free getaway, add Expedia's collision damage protection to your car rental reservation. This insurance covers your vehicle against collision damage, theft and vandalism. It also offers round-the-clock emergency support in times of need. Opt in to this plan while finalizing your Santa Cruz ride with Expedia and save time and money at the rental counter.

Car Rental Information

 
Popular car types
SUV, Full Size, Economy
 
Car suppliers available
 
Our best deal of the day
$34
 
Our second best deal of the day
$35
 
Our third best deal of the day
$36
 
From the airport to your hotel
Airport Transportation
 
From popular domestic and international airports
Airport Car Rentals

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 $34.

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 2025

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.