Car Rental in Santa Monica | Compare Cheap Car Hire Santa Monica
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Showing 20 cars available in Santa Monica
Hyundai Venue or similar Economy
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Kia Soul or similar Compact
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Toyota Corolla or similar Intermediate
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Volkswagen Jetta or similar Standard
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Toyota Camry or similar Fullsize
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BMW 2 Series or similar Standard
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Intermediate Elite (BMW 2 SERIES) or similar Standard
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Kia Rio or similar Economy
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Kia Soul or similar Compact
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Toyota Corolla or similar Intermediate
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Mini Countryman or similar Standard
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Compact Elite (MINI COUNTRYMAN) or similar Standard
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Chevrolet Equinox or similar Standard
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Kia Rio or similar Economy
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Toyota RAV4 or similar Intermediate
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Kia Soul or similar Compact
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Toyota Corolla or similar Intermediate
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Toyota Camry or similar Fullsize
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Volkswagen Jetta or similar Standard
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Standard (Chevrolet Blazer) or similar Standard
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Car Rental Information for Santa Monica
About Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a vibrant coastal city known for its iconic beach, lively pier, and laid-back California charm. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, urban sophistication, and cultural attractions. Visitors are drawn to its wide sandy beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, alongside the historic Santa Monica Pier which features an amusement park, aquarium, and restaurants. The city’s bustling Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining district filled with street performers and local boutiques. Santa Monica’s Mediterranean climate ensures pleasant weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. Its proximity to Los Angeles also makes it a convenient base for exploring Southern California. The city’s commitment to sustainability and wellness is reflected in its numerous parks, bike paths, and organic eateries. Whether you seek relaxation on the beach, cultural experiences, or vibrant nightlife, Santa Monica offers a compelling mix that appeals to a wide range of travelers.
Rental Requirements
- Valid driver's license
- Credit card in driver's name
- Minimum age: 21 (25 for some vehicles)
Popular Rental Companies
- Hertz
- Avis
- Enterprise
- Budget
Driving in Santa Monica
Major car rental companies in Santa Monica include Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, and Budget. Typical daily rental costs range from $40 to $80 depending on the season and vehicle type; weekly rentals offer better rates. Drivers must have a valid driver’s license; an International Driving Permit is recommended for foreign visitors. The minimum age is usually 21, with additional fees for drivers under 25. Roads are generally well-maintained but can be congested during peak hours. Parking in key areas like the pier and downtown is limited and often metered or in paid lots. Using public transport or biking is often more convenient.
Do you need to rent a car for Santa Monica?
From a tourist’s perspective, renting a car is not essential if you plan to stay within Santa Monica and nearby beach areas due to excellent walkability, bike paths, and public transit. However, if you want to explore greater Los Angeles or nearby attractions like Malibu or the Santa Monica Mountains, a car rental can provide flexibility and convenience.
Explore Santa Monica
Things to Do in Santa Monica
Visitors can enjoy surfing, paddleboarding, and swimming at the beach. Biking along the beachfront bike path is popular, as is rollerblading and jogging. Cultural experiences include visiting local art galleries, attending live music events, and exploring farmers markets. Shopping and dining on Third Street Promenade offer a lively urban experience. Outdoor yoga classes and wellness activities are common. For adventure seekers, nearby hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains provide scenic views and nature exploration.