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 offers the freedom and flexibility to explore both the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is especially beneficial for families and those with multiple pieces of luggage, as it allows for easy management of your belongings while travelling. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit several key attractions within Costa Mesa, such as the Orange County Fair and Events Center and the Orange County Museum of Art, both located in the area. You are also just 8 km away from Huntington Beach Pier, ideal for enjoying the coastal scenery.

Additionally, a car allows you to explore nearby popular destinations effortlessly. Newport Beach is a mere 3 km from Costa Mesa, featuring beautiful spots like Newport Beach Pier and Crystal Cove Beach. If you venture 12 km to Irvine, you can discover attractions like the Orange County Great Park. Having your own vehicle ensures that you can create flexible travel plans, whether for a family outing, a business trip, or a leisurely exploration of the local culture. Overall, a rental car enhances your experience in and around Costa Mesa, making your trip more enjoyable and convenient.

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 the most popular car rental supplier in Costa Mesa, featuring one convenient rental location. Travellers appreciate the flexibility Budget provides, allowing for easy exploration of local attractions. The Mini Van and Fullsize vehicles are the most frequently booked options, catering well to families and groups. Customers find the process straightforward, making it an excellent choice for those looking to manage their itinerary with ease.

Where to stay around Costa Mesa

• Newport Beach: Located 3 km from Costa Mesa, Newport Beach offers a delightful family and outdoor experience. Visitors can explore attractions like the Newport Beach Pier and Balboa Pier, perfect for leisurely strolls. The local beaches, including Crystal Cove Beach, are ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Newport Beach also features shopping centres and a variety of restaurants, making it a convenient base for travellers seeking both relaxation and city activities.
• Huntington Beach: Situated 8 km from Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach is known for its vibrant entertainment scene and family-friendly atmosphere. Highlights include the iconic Huntington Beach Pier and the nearby Disneyland® Resort, which is perfect for family holidays. The area offers numerous shopping centres and amusement parks, catering to a wide range of interests. With its beautiful beaches, Huntington Beach is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities alongside urban conveniences.
• Irvine: Located 12 km from Costa Mesa, Irvine provides a mix of city and family experiences, alongside a business-friendly environment. The Orange County Great Park is a notable attraction, ideal for outdoor enjoyment and family outings. Visitors can also explore Tanaka Farms for a unique eco-friendly experience. With various shopping options and dining venues, Irvine serves as a great location for those who appreciate a blend of urban charm and green spaces.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by specifying vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover 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 in advance of your trip. By booking early, you’re more likely to obtain lower rates and better 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 offer a good compromise between price, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements prior to 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 fees. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may have full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure that you return the car empty in that instance.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience it offers may make it worthwhile.
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 should something unforeseen occur during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is necessary 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