We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in San Diego. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Rental in San Diego in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.
- Customer benefits:
- Quality & Expertise
- Free amendments before rental start
- Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
- 24/7 customer service
- Club Member Discount
Flexible Booking Process
No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in San Diego and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.
Free Extras & Cancellation
In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in San Diego and surcharges from our partners on the final price.
Quality & Expertise
We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in San Diego so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.
Why rent a car in San Diego?
Renting a car in San Diego offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, stunning coastal views, and numerous attractions at your own pace. With a personal vehicle, you can easily access both popular tourist spots and hidden gems that may be less accessible by public transportation.
Beyond the city limits, a rental car allows you to embark on scenic drives along the Pacific Coast Highway, visit nearby beach towns, or venture into the picturesque countryside of Southern California. This freedom enhances your travel experience, enabling spontaneous detours and personalized itineraries.
Car rental tips for San Diego
San Diego International Airport hosts several car rental agencies conveniently located near the terminals. To expedite the rental process, consider making a reservation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Traffic congestion is common during weekday rush hours, particularly between 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM. Plan your travel accordingly to avoid delays, and consider using navigation apps to find the most efficient routes. If you plan to visit Mexico, be aware that most U.S. car rental agreements prohibit taking vehicles across the border. If cross-border travel is essential, inquire about specific rental agencies that offer this option and ensure you have the necessary insurance coverage. San Diego's coastal areas and downtown streets can be narrow and busy. Opting for a smaller vehicle can make parking and maneuvering through tight spaces more manageable.
FAQs about renting a car in San Diego
What is the recommended car type/category?
A mid-sized sedan or compact SUV is recommended for navigating San Diego's urban areas and coastal drives. These vehicles offer a balance of comfort and maneuverability, suitable for city streets and occasional trips to nearby attractions.
What are the parking options?
Parking in downtown San Diego can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Many attractions offer paid parking lots or garages. Street parking is available but may have time restrictions and meters. It's advisable to check parking signs carefully to avoid fines.
What's the speed limit?
In California, the maximum speed limit on most highways is 65 mph (105 km/h), with some areas allowing up to 70 mph (113 km/h). Urban areas typically have speed limits of 25-35 mph (40-56 km/h). Always adhere to posted speed limits and be cautious of school zones and residential areas where lower limits apply.
Popular attractions
San Diego Zoo: Located in Balboa Park, the San Diego Zoo is home to over 12,000 animals representing more than 650 species. It's renowned for its open-air, cageless exhibits that replicate natural habitats. Visitors can enjoy guided bus tours and the Skyfari aerial tram for unique perspectives of the zoo. Balboa Park: A 1,200-acre urban cultural park featuring 17 museums, gardens, theaters, and the San Diego Zoo. Balboa Park is a hub for arts and culture, offering a variety of experiences from art exhibits to botanical gardens. Seaport Village: A waterfront shopping and dining complex with over 70 shops, galleries, and eateries. Designed as a car-free environment, it offers winding paths and picturesque views of San Diego Bay. Maritime Museum of San Diego: Home to one of the largest collections of historic sea vessels in the U.S., including the Star of India, an 1863 iron barque. The museum offers insights into maritime history and interactive exhibits. Horton Plaza Park: An urban park in downtown San Diego featuring an amphitheater, retail stores, and a historic fountain. It's a popular spot for community events and relaxation.
More places to visit
La Jolla: A coastal neighborhood known for its rugged coastline, upscale boutiques, and the La Jolla Cove, a popular spot for snorkeling and sea lion sightings. Coronado Island: Accessible via the iconic Coronado Bridge, this island features pristine beaches, the historic Hotel del Coronado, and charming shops and restaurants. Carlsbad: A city north of San Diego known for its Flower Fields, LEGOLAND California Resort, and beautiful beaches. Tijuana, Mexico: Just across the border, Tijuana offers a vibrant cultural experience with its bustling markets, authentic Mexican cuisine, and lively arts scene.
Highly recommended by our customers
All Car Rental Brands in San Diego
Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.
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Find a car according to your needs
Small / Economy
You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!
Hybrid / Electric
A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.
Prestige Cars
Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.
Stationwagon / Minibus
You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.
The cheapest car rental deals
*Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)
Website advantages
Destinations in almost every city in the world. Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand Multilingual website
Customer benefits
Free amendments before rental start Free cancellation up to 48h before rental 24/7 customer service Club Member Discount
One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!
No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.
No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.
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