Costa Mesa car rental information
| Pick-up location | Costa Mesa |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact, Economy, Full-size, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Minivan, Passenger van, Premium, Standard, Standard SUV, Supplier choice |
| Rental locations | 17 |
| Airport locations | 8 |
| Popular agencies | Turo, Budget, Hertz |
Cheap car rentals in Costa Mesa
| Economy | $22/day |
| Compact | $22/day |
| Intermediate | $24/day |
| Standard | $23/day |
| Full-size | $24/day |
| Minivan | $35/day |
| Premium | $37/day |
| Passenger van | $35/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $24/day |
| Supplier choice | $26/day |
| Standard SUV | $32/day |
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Costa Mesa
- Picking up a cheap rental car in Costa Mesa will help you tour around comfortably at your own pace and in an affordable way. Visit several attractions in the surrounding areas at your pleasure and even go for different road trips and view what Costa Mesa has to offer in less than an hour.
- You can start your expeditions any minute once you get to John Wayne Airport (JWA), which lies 4 minutes away from the city center. The airport is the perfect area to pick up a cheap car rental in Costa Mesa. It has several car rental businesses that have cars that best fit your budget and needs. The agencies have help desks directly at the airport terminal just outside baggage claim.
- Driving in Costa Mesa can be hectic due to a lot of traffic on the streets. There can be congestion during rush hour. Be aware of heavy traffic during summer time and weekends. Orange County has given permits to the bus services and shuttle services of Costa Mesa to get around the city. The morning and evening hours can be hectic due to rush hour traffic. Drive carefully while driving Costa Mesa cheap car rental, double checking for cyclists and pedestrians and observing traffic rules.
- You’ll want to consider a car rental in Costa Mesa to check out all that Orange County has to offer, as nearly all travel in Southern California is done by car. You can spend time in Newport Beach, walking around the harbor or lazing on the beach. Be sure to check out the first permanent settlement in the area at the Mission San Juan Capistrano, a little over a 20min drive away. Maybe Disneyland is on your agenda, and with your car rental, you’ll be just a 15min drive away. Take a drive up the coast along Highway 1 to Seal Beach in Long Beach or continue even further north to the epic Manhattan Beach boardwalk, just south of sunny Los Angeles. No matter what you want to do and see while you’re in Costa Mesa, your own set of wheels with your car rental in Costa Mesa will give you all the freedom and comfort you need.
- There are plenty of airport options to get to Costa Mesa. The closest is the Santa Ana Airport which is a mere 4 miles away. If you’re flying into the Santa Ana Airport, there are a number of car rental companies that have on-site car rental services directly at the airport terminal, just outside baggage claim.
- The main roadways in Costa Mesa include the I-5 and the scenic coastal route known as Highway 101. Two state routes, 73 and 55 also end in Costa Mesa, and the San Diego Freeway, I-405 also serves the city. Pedestrians and cyclists are not common in Costa Mesa, with the only exception being around Highway 101 which has some tourist shops and beach access. Drive more carefully around this highway as you may be sharing the road with cyclists or have a pedestrian suddenly cross the street without expecting it.
- Traffic is notoriously congested during rush hour throughout this stretch of Southern California. If you’re heading north towards Los Angeles, expect the I-405 and the I-5 to be backed up starting from 7am until 9am. Heading south along those same freeways, it starts to get congested around 8am until 9am during the week and then again at 4pm to 6:30pm. During the weekend, heading south, especially during the summer, expect traffic to be heavy from 11am to 3:00pm.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in Costa Mesa for $39 or less
- Book your rental car in Costa Mesa at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Standard rental cars in Costa Mesa are around 61% cheaper than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in Costa Mesa
What type of car is recommended for driving in Costa Mesa?
Since you will probably be doing a lot of freeway driving in Costa Mesa, we recommend you check out a compact or standard SUV for comfort and safety. It will also give you plenty of space to lug around your gear from beach to beach and maybe even try renting a surfboard if you’ve always dreamed about trying a new sport.
What’s the speed limit in Costa Mesa?
The maximum speed limit when driving on highways in California is usually 65mph. The maximum speed limit goes down to 55mph on two-lane highways. Within the city limits of Costa Mesa, particularly in residential areas and around schools, the speed limits drop to 25-35mph.
Where are the best places to park in Costa Mesa?
Parking is free and usually plentiful around Costa Mesa. The one exception would be along Highway 101 which might be more difficult, especially on the weekends and some posted areas which only permit one or 2h parking. There is a parking garage along the Main Street Promenade if you need long-term parking.
How much does it cost to rent a car in Costa Mesa?
On average a rental car in Costa Mesa costs $49 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Costa Mesa found in the last 2 weeks is $27.
How much is gas price in Costa Mesa?
The average gas price in Costa Mesa is $3.52 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $42 and $56, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Costa Mesa?
Standard (Kia Sorento or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Costa Mesa.
How can I find car rentals near me in Costa Mesa?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does a Standard car rental cost in Costa Mesa?
A Standard car rental in Costa Mesa costs $27 per day, on average.
How much does a Compact car rental cost in Costa Mesa?
A Compact car rental in Costa Mesa costs $27 per day, on average.
How much does an Economy car rental cost in Costa Mesa?
An Economy car rental in Costa Mesa costs $33 per day, on average.
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in Costa Mesa?
On average a rental car in Costa Mesa costs $341 per week ($49 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in Costa Mesa?
On average a rental car in Costa Mesa costs $1,462 per month ($49 per day).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Costa Mesa?
Most car rental providers in Costa Mesa offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Costa Mesa, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Costa Mesa?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 13 car rental agencies in Costa Mesa.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Costa Mesa?
Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).
Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Costa Mesa?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Costa Mesa so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
What are the child seat laws in Costa Mesa?
Kids under the age of 8 need to be in a car seat in the back seat and should be protected by a seat belt. Children under two years old sit in a rear-facing car seat until they weigh 40 pounds or more. A child under the age of six years old who weighs less than 60 pounds cannot be allowed to sit in the front.
What road trips can I take from Costa Mesa?
You can set off to Berry Farm, about 21 miles from Costa Mesa which will take about 20 minutes. Here you can see the strawberries and sunflower farm and also have a lot of fun with activities for your kids. Take 45 minutes to drive to Los Angeles about 35 miles away and visit Universal Studios Hollywood and get to see a real-life working movie studio. You can also take a drive to San Diego City, about 80 miles away which will take about an hour and a half. The city boasts the most famous parks, zoos, museums, beaches, natural reserves, and many other attractions in southern California.
Costa Mesa car rental reviews and directory
Fox
5.8
Fair
318 reviewsCleanliness
6.0
Comfort
6.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
5.7
Value for money
6.2
One location in Costa Mesa
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Reviews
8.0 Very good
Mar 2021
Pros:
The staff outside in the lot was very helpful and friendly.Cons:
Car could have been a bit cleaner8.0 Very good
Mar 2021
Cons:
Check in was a little long due to no other representatives being on desk.2.0 Poor
Mar 2021
Pros:
Very bad customer service only 3-4 people are working inside and outside long wait my car was not ready on timeCons:
Customer service2.0 Poor
Mar 2021
Cons:
Waited well over an hour for the car to get cleaned before I picked it up, making me very late for a couple meetings. The checkout counter was also incredibly slow, with no urgency shown by the staff.8.0 Very good
Mar 2021
Pros:
Car was excellent and a very good value.Cons:
Pick-up and drop off were slow and drawn out. Stood by for 15 minutes waiting to check out while one agent worked and two others walked in and out without a word. Finally someone noticed me standing there and said someone would soon help me. Another 5 mintes with no attention!2.0 Poor
Feb 2021
Pros:
Nothing.Cons:
They canceled my rental AFTER i called them and emailed them that i was arriving late due to flight cancellations and wearher. When i arrived the next morning the counter guy said my trip was canceled and theres nothing i can do about it. I want a refund.Enterprise Rent-A-Car
8.9
Very good
11 reviewsCleanliness
8.7
Comfort
9.2
Pick-up/Drop-off
9.5
Value for money
8.7
2 locations in Costa Mesa
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Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2020
Pros:
Everything was easyCons:
Everything was perfect!10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2020
Pros:
The staff were amazing, both the representatives i dealt with were super professional, friendly and went above and beyond to make me satisfied4.0 Mediocre
Apr 2023
8.0 Very good
Aug 2022
10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2022
Budget
7.7
Good
15 reviewsCleanliness
7.3
Comfort
7.3
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.5
Value for money
6.4
One location in Costa Mesa
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Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2023
2.0 Poor
Oct 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2023
10.0 Wonderful
Oct 2023
2.0 Poor
Oct 2022
8.0 Very good
Mar 2019
Pros:
Small office in Costa Mesa, CA with no wait to pick up my car!Cons:
Everything went well with my car rentalAvis
6.8
Okay
6 reviewsCleanliness
6.8
Comfort
6.8
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.8
Value for money
6.8
One location in Costa Mesa
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Reviews
2.0 Poor
Sep 2020
Cons:
They could have a car! They said there’s no car. Messed up a job interview.9.2 Wonderful
Dec 2016
Pros:
Easy in and out for pickup.2.0 Poor
Jan 2022
Hertz
5.4
Fair
8 reviewsCleanliness
5.7
Comfort
5.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
4.8
Value for money
5.3
3 locations in Costa Mesa
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Reviews
2.0 Poor
Dec 2021
Pros:
They lied and said they had the car there, but they had no car available at the pick up time and place. The manager lied and said he called me but phones records show this man was just lying.Cons:
Every possible thing could have been better.4.8 Mediocre
Sep 2020
Pros:
They provided the incorrect address on the confirmation, they never have staff to come and pick you up or drop you You off after dropping off the car. When I called and told them that the address provided is incorrect and my Uber driver had to drop me off else where they didn’t even bother trying to help me, I had to pay for two Uber meanwhile I live bout 3miles away but they just kept saying they don’t have drivers.Cons:
Get more staff that works during operations hours and not after 1pm. Not sure how you can run a business like that.8.0 Very good
Apr 2019
Pros:
Friendly and helpful staffs4.4 Mediocre
Apr 2017
Pros:
Picking up and dropping off was nice and easy.Cons:
Took forever to get somebody to actually help me. The car smelled like vomit Staff was rude10.0 Wonderful
Jul 2022
1.9 Poor
Jul 2021
Europcar
6.0
Okay
No reviews available
Cleanliness
6.5
Comfort
7.5
Pick-up/Drop-off
6.5
Value for money
6.5
One location in Costa Mesa
Payless
5.1
Fair
15 reviewsOne location in Costa Mesa
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2.0 Poor
May 2017
Cons:
Never got the car. In fact, was swindled and lied to when picking up the vehicle, was told they had no more cars to rent out because they were tired and didn't want to help anymore people since they were closing. Instead they lied to us and then put us on a shuttle to go find a car at Avis in the airport and said they would refund the difference. Well now I am disputing the charge because they lied to me and said they don't honor reimbursing the difference because they are not affiliated with Avis when the representative at Payless said they were. STOP offering deals to pick up rentals from Payless in Costa Mesa.7.6 Good
Apr 2017
Pros:
It was cheap, easy to rent, no line, not busy. Away from the airportCons:
The Kia I had rented smelled like smoke and the car had multiple stains on the interior on all seats.10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2017
Pros:
Angel, our rep was really helpfulCons:
slow service recommend later in the day when not busy6.0 Okay
Apr 2017
Pros:
Excellent priceCons:
First vehicle offered had severely damaged bumper and dented passenger door (through paint to bare metal) which I refused. Took 2nd vehicle, which I then discovered after leaving on trip to AZ had two tires with slow leaks that I had to inflate daily; left front & right rear.2.0 Poor
Apr 2017
Cons:
Got to the counter and was told a debit card was no good. Payless agent made a call and a third party offered me a rate twice as much as the contract price and a $200 deposit whe I refused they offered another $20 discount. I was insulted and walked away.8.0 Very good
Mar 2017
Pros:
Good priceCons:
Not the most polished experience, car was a bit dirty but acceptable.Airport Van
4.9
Mediocre
13 reviews2 locations in Costa Mesa
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4.0 Mediocre
Oct 2018
Pros:
Not muchCons:
Was not informed of a $25 after hours drop off fee, or a $50 different drop off location fee. Was not informed that Costa Mesa closed before scheduled drop off time, and that drop off subsequently was at airport. I needed special instructions for the airport drop off.10.0 Wonderful
Jul 2018
Pros:
Great Customer Service From All the Staff.10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2017
Pros:
Love it10.0 Wonderful
Feb 2017
Pros:
I would not hesitate to use this company again, and when we go back to this area I will definitely look here first for my rental van. The staff members we encountered were friendly and attentive. When we lost a cell phone Milton the General Manager personally attended to having it overnight shipped back to us, and Raphael, the one who found the phone in our returned van, searched the entire van to find it, which was no easy task because the phone was black on a black mat and under a seat.Cons:
This isn't the rental company's fault, but the city imposes a restriction upon rental pickups, so they have to go to a special parking lot, and I wasn't aware of this.10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2017
Pros:
We worried after reading some reviews, but this rental company was awesome. Friendly service from pick up, to drop off. Quick, clean, and total steal! The van was clean and ran beautifully. If you rent to experience a brand new car with all the bells and whistles, this won't suit you. But we loved it and hope others give them a try.Cons:
It was a little unclear what we needed to do once we got to the airport and even the airport info people hadn't heard of the company. Perhaps a bit more explicit instructions on how to get a ride to the rental facility would help.9.2 Wonderful
Jan 2017
Pros:
I needed a van to carry 8 people (including 3 car seats with kids) and renting a kia sedona from here did the job! Great people, fast service, and overall a pleasant experience.Cons:
Since it's a smaller, outside-of-the-airport shop, the rentals are a bit older and sometimes worn-down. (i.e. color stained but clean seats) No odor problems or anything like that, but you can tell when you get a van that someone used for camping/ snowboarding. Regardless, the price and service makes up for all of that!Silvercar
9.7
Wonderful
No reviews available
One location in Costa Mesa
Goldcar Rental SP
5.2
Fair
No reviews available
One location in Costa Mesa
Rhodium
5.6
Fair
No reviews available
One location in Costa Mesa
Advance Van Rental
No score available yet
One location in Costa Mesa
One location in Costa Mesa
Locations in Costa Mesa
Lobby Of Travelodge Hotel
(714) 432-1313
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