Santa Monica Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Santa Monica

Renting a car in Santa Monica offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the city's attractions at your own pace. With a car, you can easily visit Santa Monica Beach, where you can enjoy sun-soaked beach experiences, and the iconic Santa Monica Pier, perfect for leisurely strolls and scenic views. The Third Street Promenade is also nearby, providing a vibrant atmosphere ideal for family and outdoor experiences. A rental car simplifies luggage management and allows for spontaneous travel plans, making it convenient for families and those seeking entertainment options. Furthermore, Santa Monica serves as a great base for exploring nearby destinations. Los Angeles, home to Universal Studios Hollywood and Six Flags Magic Mountain, is within easy reach, while the charming city of Venice, just 4 km away, boasts attractions like Muscle Beach and Venice Beach. Additionally, Marina del Rey, located 6 km from Santa Monica, features beautiful beaches and water activities. With a rental car, you can comfortably navigate these popular spots and enjoy your visit to Southern California without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car rentals in Santa Monica

• Midsize SUV: This option accommodates 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. The spacious interior provides comfort during your travels, allowing you to manage your luggage easily while exploring Santa Monica and its surroundings at your own pace.
• Standard SUV: Perfect for couples, families, or groups, this vehicle also accommodates 5 travellers with space for up to 2 medium suitcases. The standard SUV offers a balance of comfort and practicality, making it a popular choice for navigating Santa Monica's attractions while ensuring that you have enough room for your belongings.
• Premium SUV: Designed with business travellers in mind, this car option accommodates 5 travellers and has room for up to 2 medium suitcases. It provides a more luxurious experience, perfect for those who wish to travel in style and comfort while exploring Santa Monica. This choice ensures you can manage your luggage effectively while enjoying the freedom of the open road.

Top rated car suppliers in Santa Monica

• Sixt: Sixt holds a prominent position among car rental suppliers in Santa Monica, with a dedicated rental location in the area. Known for its reliable service, Sixt's most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, making it a great choice for those seeking spacious and comfortable options for their adventures. Renting from Sixt allows you to experience Santa Monica and its surroundings with ease and flexibility.
• Avis: Avis is another top supplier in Santa Monica, featuring a convenient rental location. Travellers often choose Avis for its popular vehicles, including Standard Convertibles and Midsize SUVs. Avis combines quality with a wide selection of vehicles, allowing you to enjoy the iconic Californian coastline and attractions at your own pace whilst ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride.
• Budget: Budget is well-regarded for providing excellent value for money, with a rental location situated in Santa Monica. This supplier is particularly popular for its Midsize SUVs and Luxury vehicles, catering to a variety of traveller needs. With Budget, you can expect competitive pricing and a range of choices, ensuring that your car rental experience is both economical and enjoyable as you explore the vibrant sights of the area.

Where to stay around Santa Monica

• Santa Monica: A vibrant coastal city known for its stunning beach, Santa Monica Beach is perfect for a beach holiday. Its proximity to attractions like the iconic Santa Monica Pier and a variety of restaurants makes it an excellent choice for families and those seeking entertainment. Enjoy the local shopping and dining options, making it an ideal base for exploring the wider Los Angeles area.
• Venice: Located a mere 4 km away from Santa Monica, Venice is famed for its picturesque beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere of Venice Beach and the unique charm of the boardwalk. The area is also home to attractions like Muscle Beach, making it a popular choice for families and beach lovers alike. With numerous dining options, Venice offers a laid-back vibe just a short distance from Santa Monica.
• Marina del Rey: Situated 6 km from Santa Monica, Marina del Rey boasts beautiful beaches and family-friendly outdoor spaces. This picturesque area is ideal for those looking to relax by the beach or enjoy water-based activities. With nearby attractions like Marina Beach and access to shopping areas, it provides a variety of options for visitors. The abundance of dining choices ensures that guests can indulge in delightful culinary experiences while enjoying the coastal scenery.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for the summer months, or an economical car for cost-effectiveness, 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 reserve your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you're likely to secure lower rates and benefit from better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically less expensive to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size rentals offer a good compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before 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 extra charges. This is usually the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are acceptable as well, but ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
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 you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It’s easy to include car rental insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, seek rentals with unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional costs.
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 Santa Monica

The best value period to rent a car in Santa Monica is November, when prices are typically lower and demand is more moderate. October can also be a reasonable choice, although demand tends to be higher. January and February are usually quieter, with February experiencing the lowest demand. In contrast, May sees higher prices and average demand, making it one of the most expensive months for rentals. June through August generally maintain slightly high prices and average demand, while October remains busy with elevated demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
March	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
April	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
May	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	73.6°F (23.1°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
August	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
October	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High