Costa Mesa Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Costa Mesa

Renting a car in Costa Mesa provides you with the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families, business travellers, and those seeking a city-themed experience, as a car allows for easy luggage management and adaptable travel plans. With a rental car, you can effortlessly visit key attractions such as the Orange County Fair and Events Center and the Orange County Museum of Art, both located within Costa Mesa. Additionally, the beautiful Huntington Beach Pier is a mere 8 km away, while the scenic Newport Beach, featuring its own pier and stunning beaches, is just 3 km from Costa Mesa. If you're interested in venturing a bit further, the vibrant city of Irvine is 12 km away, offering sites like the Orange County Great Park. Having a rental car makes it convenient to explore these popular destinations without relying on public transport, allowing you to make the most of your trip and discover everything the area has to offer.

Most popular car rentals in Costa Mesa

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice for those looking to travel in Costa Mesa. It accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it an ideal option for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. Its compact size enhances manoeuvrability in urban areas, ensuring you can navigate Costa Mesa’s streets with ease while enjoying the flexibility of travel.
• Compact: The Compact car is another frequently booked option in Costa Mesa, catering to groups of up to 5 travellers and offering space for up to 3 medium suitcases. This car type strikes a balance between size and efficiency, making it perfect for couples or families who want a little extra luggage capacity while still benefiting from a nimble vehicle. It’s an excellent choice for those who appreciate convenience and comfort.
• Midsize: For those needing a bit more room, the Midsize car is a well-favoured option in Costa Mesa. It can comfortably accommodate 5 travellers and has the capacity for up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for couples or families with more luggage. This car type provides a greater level of comfort for longer journeys, allowing you to explore the region at your leisure without compromising on space.

Top rated car suppliers in Costa Mesa

• Budget: Budget is a popular choice among travellers in Costa Mesa, featuring one rental location in the area. It is well-regarded for its flexibility and convenience, allowing you to manage your luggage easily while exploring local attractions. The Mini Van and Fullsize vehicles are among the most booked options, catering to various group sizes and travel needs. With its reliable service, Budget ensures that you can enjoy your journey without hassle.

Where to stay around Costa Mesa

• Newport Beach: Located 3 km from Costa Mesa, Newport Beach is a charming city ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy the scenic Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier, both offering stunning views. The nearby Crystal Cove Beach is perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. With shopping centres and a variety of restaurants, Newport Beach provides ample options for dining and entertainment.
• Huntington Beach: Situated 8 km away from Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach is synonymous with family fun and outdoor entertainment. Highlights include the iconic Huntington Beach Pier and the renowned Disneyland® Resort, perfect for family outings. The bustling Main Street offers a vibrant atmosphere with shops and eateries. Amusement parks and extensive beaches make this location a great choice for those seeking an active holiday.
• Irvine: Just 12 km from Costa Mesa, Irvine is a city that blends family-friendly activities with a business vibe. Visitors can explore the Orange County Great Park, ideal for outdoor family outings, or attend events at the Bren Events Center, which focuses on cultural experiences. The local dining scene features various restaurants and wineries, making it a pleasant destination for food lovers.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Costa Mesa

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search according to vehicle type and desired features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for enjoying summer days, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to assist you in finding the perfect 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 trip. By booking in advance, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and benefit from greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others might offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but it may be worthwhile for the added convenience.
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 unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unexpected incidents during your trip. Adding car rental insurance when booking with Expedia is straightforward.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Costa Mesa

The best value period to rent a car in and around Costa Mesa is January, when prices are low despite high demand. Following this, June offers the lowest demand and similarly low prices, making it a quiet option. March and April also provide average pricing and demand, creating a balanced opportunity for rentals. However, December is the most expensive month, with typical demand levels, while October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	High	Low
February	57.9°F (14.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
March	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
April	61.3°F (16.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	63.3°F (17.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	High
June	66.9°F (19.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Low
July	71.1°F (21.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
August	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
September	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
October	68.9°F (20.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	High
November	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Low
December	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	High