Santa Cruz Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Cruz

Renting a car in Santa Cruz offers the freedom to explore this vibrant city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. With a vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Key attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, known for its adventure and family experiences, and the intriguing Mystery Spot, which provides unique cultural insights, are all accessible with ease. For beach lovers, Natural Bridges State Park is a highlight worth visiting. Additionally, a rental car allows you to venture to nearby destinations such as Capitola, located just 6 km away, where you can enjoy Capitola Beach alongside the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the Mystery Spot. Westside Santa Cruz and Live Oak are also within reach, showcasing attractions like Natural Bridges State Park and more beach experiences. With a rental car, you can navigate these popular spots comfortably, ensuring that your trip is both enjoyable and stress-free.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Cruz

• Economy: The Economy car type is a popular choice among travellers in Santa Cruz, accommodating up to 5 passengers and allowing for 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or small families who value affordability and efficiency. With its compact size, it makes navigating through the city and finding parking a breeze, while still providing enough space for your luggage.
• Fullsize: If you are travelling with a larger group or family, the Fullsize car is an excellent option. This vehicle can comfortably seat up to 5 travellers and has ample storage space for either 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. Its generous roominess makes it a great choice for those planning to explore Santa Cruz with additional gear, ensuring everyone travels in comfort without sacrificing luggage capacity.
• Compact: The Compact car type strikes a balance between size and practicality, accommodating up to 5 travellers and allowing for 3 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families looking for a vehicle that is easy to handle yet spacious enough for their essentials. Its smaller footprint makes it ideal for city driving and parking, enabling you to enjoy the freedom of exploring Santa Cruz at your own pace.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Cruz

• Hertz: Hertz is the most popular car rental supplier in Santa Cruz, with a convenient rental location in the area. Travellers appreciate the flexibility and ease of managing their luggage while exploring the stunning attractions around Santa Cruz. The most booked option with Hertz is the Economy car, which offers a great balance of affordability and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy their trip at their own pace.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

• Westside Santa Cruz: This vibrant neighbourhood offers a fantastic outdoor and beach experience, with attractions like the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Natural Bridges State Park nearby. Families will appreciate the mix of amusement parks and educational venues. Food enthusiasts can enjoy a range of restaurants and wineries. Westside Santa Cruz is ideal for those looking to explore beaches and bays, making it a great base for a beach holiday.
• Aptos: Located 11 km away from Santa Cruz, Aptos is perfect for beach lovers and those seeking scenic views. Key attractions include Rio Del Mar Beach and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, both suitable for family outings. Aptos features various dining options including restaurants and wineries, offering a delightful experience for visitors. The outdoor activities and beautiful landscapes enhance its appeal for a relaxing stay.
• Capitola: Just 6 km from Santa Cruz, Capitola is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and stunning beach scenery. Visitors can enjoy Capitola Beach and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, which serve as excellent spots for outdoor fun. With an array of restaurants and wineries in the vicinity, Capitola also offers cultural experiences such as the Mystery Spot exhibit. This charming city is a wonderful choice for those looking to immerse themselves in a picturesque coastal setting.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Santa Cruz

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filtering options on Expedia to identify the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary depending on demand, so it's advisable to reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are likely to secure more competitive rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in congested 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 some vehicle categories—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 making a booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fuelling choices, which can be convenient as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car from airports often incurs a surcharge, but it might be worth it 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 any unexpected incidents during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a vehicle.