Best Western Seven Seas
San Diego, 411 Hotel Circle South
7.12,284 Reviews3-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: San Diego (SAN)
7% Package Savings
$498/person
$1,073 $995 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
San Diego Car Rentals from $24/day
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Save up to 40% off rental cars with Priceline
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If a VIP member finds a better price elsewhere, we’ll refund up to 200% of the difference
Flexible Bookings
Plans change. That’s why we offer free cancellation on most rental cars
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Good to Know
Essential information to help you plan your car rental in San Diego.
Cheapest Car
$24/day
Lowest daily rate found on Priceline in San Diego for Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 days. Picked up at the airport, $4/day less than in town.
$13/day below the typical $37/day for these dates.
Supplier's Choice · 5 seats · AutomaticCheapest Free Cancellation
$24/day
Lowest rate you can cancel for free in San Diego, for the same dates.
Costs no more than the cheapest car.
Economy Car · 5 seats · AutomaticGood Deal Price
$30/day
A rental at or under $30/day is a good deal in San Diego for these dates.
75% of the rates we found cost more; only a quarter cost less.
Best Time to Book
When to book, the cheapest season, pick-up day and car type, and how rental length changes the rate in San Diego.
Low Season
January
Rentals average $27/day in January, the cheapest month to rent in San Diego.
$5/day below the yearly average of $32/day.
When to Book
Within a week
Renters who booked within a week of pick-up paid the least in San Diego, about $27/day. Reserve a free-cancellation rate now and check again closer to pick-up.
$8/day less than booking 2 to 3 months ahead ($35/day).
Rental Length
Rent for a week
7-day rentals average $30/day in San Diego, as weekly rates kick in.
$9/day less than a 1–3 day rental ($39/day).
Cheapest Car Type
Let the supplier choose
The cheapest option in San Diego is often to let the supplier pick the car from what’s available, about $24/day. You’ll usually get an economy car, but when those are taken you may drive away in a mid-size or something nicer.
$2/day less than the cheapest named type, Compact Car ($26/day).
Our Best San Diego Car Rental Deals
Peruse the best San Diego car rental deals we’ve found. Make sure to check back soon if you’re not finding what you’re looking for, as deals are updated frequently.
Compact Car
Nissan Versa or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
EconomyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$24/day
$171 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Ford Fiesta or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
EconomyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$24/day
$171 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Ford Fiesta or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
EconomyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$24/day
$171 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Nissan Versa or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
EconomyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$24/day
$171 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Nissan Versa or similar
5 people5
Unlimited mileage
U-SaveRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$25/day
$175 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Nissan Versa or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
Green MotionRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$25/day
$175 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Nissan Versa or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
Green MotionRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$25/day
$175 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Hyundai Accent or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
U-SaveRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$25/day
$175 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Kia Soul or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
BudgetRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$28/day
$198 total, incl. taxes and fees
Compact Car
Kia Soul or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
AvisRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$28/day
$198 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Chevrolet Spark or similar
4 people1
Unlimited mileage
AvisRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$28/day
$198 total, incl. taxes and fees
Economy Car
Chevrolet Spark or similar
4 people1
Unlimited mileage
BudgetRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$28/day
$198 total, incl. taxes and fees
Supplier's Choice
Vehicle determined at pick-up (may include electric, gas or hybrid vehicles) or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
EconomyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$24/day
$171 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Hyundai Elantra or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
EconomyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$24/day
$171 total, incl. taxes and fees
Supplier's Choice
Vehicle determined at pick-up (may include electric, gas or hybrid vehicles) or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
EconomyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$24/day
$171 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Hyundai Elantra or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
EconomyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$24/day
$171 total, incl. taxes and fees
Supplier's Choice
Vehicle determined at pick-up (may include electric, gas or hybrid vehicles) or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
U-SaveRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$25/day
$175 total, incl. taxes and fees
Supplier's Choice
Vehicle determined at pick-up (may include electric, gas or hybrid vehicles) or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
Green MotionRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$25/day
$175 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Hyundai Elantra or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
U-SaveRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$25/day
$175 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Hyundai Elantra or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
Green MotionRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$25/day
$175 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Toyota Corolla or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
AvisRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$29/day
$202 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Toyota Corolla or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
BudgetRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$29/day
$202 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Toyota Corolla or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
BudgetRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$29/day
$202 total, incl. taxes and fees
Mid-Size Car
Toyota Corolla or similar
5 people2
Unlimited mileage
AvisRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$29/day
$202 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
DollarRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$44/day
$308 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
ThriftyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$44/day
$308 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
DollarRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$47/day
$331 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
DollarRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$44/day
$308 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
ThriftyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$44/day
$308 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
DollarRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$45/day
$316 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
ThriftyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$45/day
$316 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Acura Integra or similar
5 people4
Unlimited mileage
EnterpriseRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$45/day
$318 total, incl. taxes and fees
Luxury Car
Chrysler 300 or similar
4 people1
Unlimited mileage
DollarRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$47/day
$328 total, incl. taxes and fees
Luxury Car
Chrysler 300 or similar
4 people1
Unlimited mileage
ThriftyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$47/day
$328 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
ThriftyRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$53/day
$368 total, incl. taxes and fees
Premium Car
Chevrolet Impala or similar
5 people3
Unlimited mileage
DollarRental dates
Nov 28 – Dec 5 · 7 daysPrices checked Oct 29
$53/day
$368 total, incl. taxes and fees
Available San Diego rental cars
Supplier's ChoiceVehicle determined at pick-up (may include electric, gas or hybrid vehicles) or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
2367 India Street, San Diego, USPay Now & Save $7 on total price
$25/day
$24/day
$171 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Compact CarNissan Versa or similar
55Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
2263 Pacific Highway, San Diego, US$25/day
$175 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Economy CarNissan Versa or similar
52Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
2263 Pacific Highway, San Diego, US$25/day
$175 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Compact CarKia Soul or similar
52Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
500 Hotel Cir N, San Diego, USPay Now & Save $9 on total price
$30/day
$28/day
$198 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Compact CarKia Soul or similar
52Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
500 Hotel Cir N, San Diego, USPay Now & Save $9 on total price
$30/day
$28/day
$198 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Compact SUVFord Ecosport or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego, US$33/day
$231 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Compact SUVFord Ecosport or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
3355 Admiral Boland Way, San Diego, US$34/day
$239 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Economy CarChevrolet Spark or similar
52Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
1120 West Laurel Street, San Diego, USPay Now & Save $26 on total price
$41/day
$37/day
$258 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Economy CarChevrolet Spark or similar
52Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
1120 W Laurel Street, San Diego, USPay Now & Save $26 on total price
$41/day
$37/day
$258 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Economy CarChevrolet Spark or similar
42Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
1441 Camino Del Rio South, San Diego, USPay Now & Save $26 on total price
$41/day
$37/day
$259 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Compact CarNissan Versa or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
2367 India Street, San Diego, USPay Now & Save $7 on total price
$25/day
$24/day
$171 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Economy CarFord Fiesta or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
2367 India Street, San Diego, USPay Now & Save $7 on total price
$25/day
$24/day
$171 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Mid-Size CarHyundai Elantra or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
2367 India Street, San Diego, USPay Now & Save $7 on total price
$25/day
$24/day
$171 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Economy CarFord Fiesta or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
2367 India Street, San Diego, US$24/day
$171 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Supplier's ChoiceVehicle determined at pick-up (may include electric, gas or hybrid vehicles) or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
2367 India Street, San Diego, US$24/day
$171 Total
Includes taxes and fees
Mid-Size CarHyundai Elantra or similar
53Automatic
Unlimited mileage
Pick-Up & Drop-off
2367 India Street, San Diego, US$24/day
$171 Total
Includes taxes and fees
No cars match these filters.
Best San Diego Hotel + Car Packages
San Diego packages
EZ 8 Motel Old Town
San Diego, 4747 Pacific Highway
5.92,533 Reviews2.5-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: San Diego (SAN)
15% Package Savings
$386/person
$904 $772 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Sheraton San Diego Resort
San Diego, 1380 Harbor Island Drive
8.11,678 Reviews4-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: San Diego (SAN)
27% Package Savings
$830/person
$2,264 $1,660 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Crowne Plaza San Diego Mission Valley By IHG
San Diego, 2270 Hotel Circle North
7.81,129 Reviews3.5-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: San Diego (SAN)
20% Package Savings
$612/person
$1,531 $1,223 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Heritage Inn San Diego
San Diego, 3333 Channel Way
6.11,396 Reviews2-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: San Diego (SAN)
13% Package Savings
$376/person
$867 $751 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Alcala Hotel Mission Valley/SeaWorld - Free Breakfast
San Diego, 2484 Hotel Circle Place
62,501 Reviews2.5-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: San Diego (SAN)
22% Package Savings
$480/person
$1,230 $960 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Super 8 by Wyndham San Diego Hotel Circle
San Diego, 445 Hotel Cir S
6.21,365 Reviews2-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: San Diego (SAN)
16% Package Savings
$392/person
$931 $783 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
The Sofia Hotel
San Diego, 150 West Broadway
7.7522 Reviews3.5-Star Hotel
Car rental
Pick-up: San Diego (SAN)
43% Package Savings
$618/person
$2,168 $1,236 total
Incl. Hotel + Car
Which days have the lowest car rental rates?
Cheapest on Tuesdays at about $29/day
Tuesday pick-ups average $29/day in San Diego, the lowest of any day of the week.
Show the data
| Day | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| Mon | $29 |
| Tue | $29 |
| Wed | $29 |
| Thu | $29 |
| Fri | $29 |
| Sat | $30 |
| Sun | $30 |
Which month has the best car rental rates?
Cheapest in January at about $27/day
Rentals average $27/day in January, the cheapest month to rent in San Diego. March is the priciest at about $37/day.
Show the data
| Month | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| Jan | $27 |
| Feb | $33 |
| Mar | $37 |
| Apr | $33 |
| May | $31 |
| Jun | $35 |
| Jul | $35 |
| Aug | $32 |
| Sep | $30 |
| Oct | $34 |
| Nov | $30 |
| Dec | $28 |
How far in advance should I book?
Cheapest booked within a week of pick-up at about $27/day
Renters who booked within a week of pick-up paid the least in San Diego, about $27/day. Reserve a free-cancellation rate now and check again closer to pick-up.
Show the data
| Days before pick-up | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| 90 days | $37 |
| 88 days | $37 |
| 86 days | $36 |
| 82 days | $34 |
| 78 days | $35 |
| 74 days | $35 |
| 70 days | $33 |
| 66 days | $35 |
| 62 days | $34 |
| 58 days | $34 |
| 54 days | $33 |
| 50 days | $32 |
| 46 days | $32 |
| 42 days | $31 |
| 38 days | $31 |
| 34 days | $31 |
| 30 days | $30 |
| 26 days | $29 |
| 22 days | $28 |
| 18 days | $28 |
| 14 days | $27 |
| 10 days | $27 |
| 6 days | $27 |
| 4 days | $26 |
| 2 days | $27 |
| 0 days | $27 |
How does the daily rate change with rental length?
A week averages about $30/day
7-day rentals average $30/day in San Diego, against $39/day for 1 to 3 days.
Show the data
| Rental length | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| 1 day | $42 |
| 5 days | $38 |
| 9 days | $31 |
| 13 days | $26 |
| 17 days | $26 |
| 21 days | $22 |
| 25 days | $21 |
| 29 days | $23 |
| 33 days | $23 |
| 37 days | $26 |
| 41 days | $24 |
| 45 days | $27 |
| 49 days | $28 |
| 53 days | $23 |
| 57 days | $23 |
| 61 days | $21 |
| 65 days | $24 |
| 69 days | $25 |
| 73 days | $22 |
| 77 days | $24 |
| 81 days | $23 |
| 85 days | $21 |
| 89 days | $20 |
| 90 days | $21 |
How much do rentals cost by car type?
Letting the supplier choose is cheapest at about $24/day
The cheapest option in San Diego is often to let the supplier pick the car from what’s available, about $24/day. You’ll usually get an economy car, but when those are taken you may drive away in a mid-size or something nicer.
Show the data
| Car type | Average daily rate |
|---|---|
| Supplier Choice Car | $24 |
| Compact Car | $26 |
| Mid Size Car | $27 |
| Economy Car | $27 |
| Standard Car | $28 |
| Full Size Car | $30 |
| Compact SUV | $31 |
| Mid Size SUV | $32 |
| Standard SUV | $39 |
| Mini Van | $52 |
Methodology: learn how we calculate these charts
The charts “Which days have the lowest car rental rates?”, “Which month has the best car rental rates?”, “How far in advance should I book?”, “How does the daily rate change with rental length?” and “How much do rentals cost by car type?” are built from the daily rates Priceline customers actually paid for rental cars in San Diego, grouped by pick-up month, day of the week, how far ahead they booked (up to 90 days), how many days they rented and the type of car. A city’s charts include rentals picked up at its airports.
Where a location has too few rentals to fill every point in a chart, we borrow the shape of the curve from nearby locations with similar prices and fit it to the rates booked here.
Because past rates don’t reflect today’s market, each chart is then fitted to the rates found in this page’s current search: its value at the search’s own pick-up month, day, booking lead time and rental length is set to the current good-deal rate.
The Good to Know deal cards and the cars listed on this page come directly from that recent search, not from historical bookings.
San Diego Car Rental Agency Directory
Addresses, phone numbers, reviews and ratings for all the rental agencies in San Diego.
Enterprise Rent-A-Car9.4
152 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$155/day
Find similarAlamo Rent a Car9.4
299 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$86/day
Find similar
National Car Rental9.2
80 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$116/day
Find similarSixt Rent a Car9.1
265 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$111/day
Find similarHertz Corporation9
241 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$72/day
Find similarDollar Rent A Car8.7
421 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$37/day
Find similarBudget Rent a Car8.4
410 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$71/day
Find similarAvis Rent a Car8.3
123 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$28/day
Find similarThrifty Car Rental8.3
425 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$68/day
Find similarFox Rent-A-Car8.1
358 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$33/day
Find similarGreen Motion8.1
67 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 2263 Pacific Highway
$25/day
Find similarEuropcar7.9
46 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$34/day
Find similarEconomy Rent-A-Car7.7
295 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 2367 India Street
$24/day
Find similar
Payless Car Rental6.9
676 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 3355 Admiral Boland Way
$40/day
Find similar
NÜ Car Rentals6.8
169 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 2305 Pacific Hwy San Diego Intl Airport
$140/day
Find similar
Priceless Car Rental6.3
109 reviews
Typical Wait Time0-15 Minutes
San Diego, 1025 W Laurel Street Ste 101
$84/day
Find similar
NextCar8.6
4 reviews
Typical Wait Time15-30 Minutes
San Diego, 1025 W Laurel Street Ste 101
$85/day
Find similarCar Rental Locations in San Diego
Go to map viewCar Rental Legend
Budget
12 locations
Avis
12 locations
Enterprise
9 locations
Hertz
6 locations
Dollar
6 locations
Thrifty
5 locations
Sixt
3 locations
Fox
1 location
Europcar
1 location
National
1 location
U-Save
1 location
Payless
1 location
NÜ
1 location
Priceless
1 location
Alamo
1 location
NextCar
1 location
Green Motion
1 location
Economy
1 location
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I rent a car for my San Diego trip?
Renting a car in San Diego gives you the ultimate freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, from stunning beaches to vibrant neighborhoods. It's your ticket to effortlessly experiencing everything Southern California has to offer.
What's the typical cost for car rentals in San Diego?
Renting a car in San Diego typically costs about $56 per day. January is the cheapest month at $47 per day, while March is the priciest at $65 per day. The cheapest car type is a Supplier Choice Car at $41 per day, with Mid Size Car being the most popular choice. Rates barely change by day of week, ranging from $55 on Tuesday to $57 on Sunday.
Which car types are popular for San Diego adventures?
Many travelers opt for compact or mid-size cars for city driving and parking convenience. However, if you're planning trips up the coast or with more gear, an SUV or a convertible for that classic California feel might be just what you're looking for.
Where can I pick up my rental car in San Diego?
You'll find most major car rental agencies conveniently located at San Diego International Airport (SAN). Downtown San Diego also offers several pick-up spots, giving you flexibility no matter where you start your adventure.
What documents do I need to rent a car in San Diego?
To pick up your rental, you'll generally need a valid driver's license, a major credit card in the renter's name, and proof of your reservation. If you're an international traveler, an International Driving Permit (IDP) might also be required alongside your home country's license.
Do I need car rental insurance in San Diego?
While your personal auto insurance or credit card may offer some coverage, it's wise to understand what's included and what's not. Rental agencies offer options like Loss Damage Waiver (LDW) or Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and liability insurance, providing peace of mind. Consider what makes you feel most secure on the road.
What's the best way to get around San Diego with my rental car?
San Diego's road network is generally easy to navigate. Major freeways like I-5 and I-8 connect key areas. Using GPS or a mapping app is highly recommended to find the quickest routes and explore neighborhoods efficiently.
Are there toll roads in San Diego I should know about?
San Diego has a few toll roads and express lanes, like portions of SR-125. Some rental companies offer toll passes, or you can often pay online after use. It's good to be aware of them, especially if you plan on covering longer distances.
What are parking options like in San Diego?
Parking in San Diego varies. Downtown and popular beach areas might have metered street parking or paid lots. Many hotels offer parking for guests. It's smart to check parking availability and costs, especially if you're visiting busy attractions.
Can I pick up my car at the airport and drop it off elsewhere?
Absolutely! One-way rentals are often available between San Diego International Airport (SAN) and other locations, even out-of-state. This flexibility can be perfect if your travel plans involve different start and end points.
What's the minimum age to rent a car in San Diego?
Most car rental companies in San Diego require renters to be at least 21 years old. If you're under 25, you might incur an additional 'underage' surcharge, so it's best to confirm with the specific rental agency.
Are there any special considerations for driving in San Diego during peak season?
During peak tourist seasons, like summer, San Diego's roads can be busier, and attractions more crowded. Booking your rental car well in advance and planning your routes to avoid peak traffic times will help ensure a smoother experience.
How can I find the best deal on a rental car for San Diego?
The savvy traveler's secret to great deals is booking in advance and comparing options. Priceline helps you do just that, giving you access to competitive rates across various rental companies so you can confidently find a deal that fits your budget.
What if I need to modify or cancel my San Diego car rental?
Priceline understands plans can change. Review the terms of your specific rental agreement, as many bookings offer free cancellation or modification up to a certain point. It's always best to check these details when you book.
Are there any scenic drives I should take with my San Diego rental car?
San Diego is a gateway to incredible drives! Consider a trip up the picturesque Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) for stunning ocean views, or explore the charming communities along the coastline. Your rental car opens up a world of discovery.
Top Tips
- Kick off your San Diego adventure right by booking your rental car well in advance, especially for summer trips or major events. This savvy move ensures you lock in better rates and secure your preferred vehicle, setting the stage for a smooth start to your journey.
- Upon arrival, head directly to the San Diego International Airport (SAN) Car Rental Center via the dedicated shuttle. Consolidating all rental agencies in one convenient location streamlines your pick-up process, getting you on the road faster to explore the city.
- Carefully review your rental agreement and understand your insurance options before driving off. Many personal auto policies or credit cards offer coverage, so check your existing benefits to potentially save on additional rental car insurance at the counter.
- Embrace the California sun and navigate San Diego like a pro using a reliable GPS or smartphone app. With well-marked freeways like the I-5 and I-8, clear navigation ensures you smoothly reach iconic destinations like Balboa Park or La Jolla Cove.
- Be aware of California's 'Slowpoke Law' on multi-lane highways; faster traffic should use the left-most lanes. Keeping right to allow others to pass contributes to a fluid and safe driving experience for everyone on San Diego's bustling roads.
- Discover convenient parking solutions throughout San Diego, often found in downtown garages, public lots, or metered street parking. Leverage parking apps for real-time availability and pricing, making it easy to explore attractions like the Gaslamp Quarter or Old Town.
- Pack your patience for San Diego's peak traffic hours, especially during morning and evening commutes on major freeways. Planning your excursions to avoid these times can transform a potentially frustrating drive into a relaxed cruise through the city.
- Familiarize yourself with California's hands-free device law; using a cell phone for calls or texting requires a Bluetooth or hands-free accessory. Prioritizing safety ensures an uninterrupted and enjoyable journey as you cruise San Diego's scenic routes.
- Consider a car with good fuel efficiency for your San Diego explorations, as gasoline prices can fluctuate. Knowing the location of gas stations near your hotel or planned routes ensures you're always ready for your next adventure.
- Before returning your rental, ensure the fuel tank meets the agreement's requirements to avoid extra charges. Many agencies require a full tank, so plan a quick stop near the airport to top off and smoothly conclude your San Diego driving experience.