San Clemente car rentals from $28/day
This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 72 hours by searching for a car rental in San Clemente with a pick-up date of 5/9 and drop-off date of 5/12. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of rental. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
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San Clemente car rental information
| Pick-up location | San Clemente |
|---|---|
| Car types | Compact, Compact SUV, Economy, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Minivan, Pickup truck, Premium, Standard, Standard SUV, Supplier choice |
| Rental locations | 3 |
| Airport locations | 0 |
| Popular agencies | Turo, Hertz, Getaround |
Cheap car rentals in San Clemente
| Economy | $30/day |
| Compact | $28/day |
| Intermediate | $30/day |
| Standard | $43/day |
| Minivan | $53/day |
| Full-size SUV | $46/day |
| Premium | $55/day |
| Pickup truck | $40/day |
| Standard SUV | $31/day |
| Intermediate SUV | $32/day |
| Supplier choice | $32/day |
| Compact SUV | $33/day |
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in San Clemente
- Whether you're visiting San Clemente for pleasure or business, renting a car is your best bet. When compared to public transportation, renting a vehicle from one of the reputable car rentals in San Clemente will allow you to navigate and get to your desired destinations faster. You can drive within the city to the Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, a Spanish-style home with community events. You can drive less than 30 minutes outside the city to San Clemente State Beach, a windy beach with several campgrounds and scenic views.
- You can rent a car upon arrival at John Wayne Airport, the primary airport serving San Clemente, as the airport has on-site and off-site car rental providers. The car rental desks are located on the arrivals level of the main terminal, directly across from the John Wayne monument. If you choose to rent a car from an off-site agency, most will provide a free shuttle service from the airport's ground transportation center to the off-airport car rental facility. Remember to check with your off-site rental provider ahead of time to see if they offer pick-up services before making your reservation.
- Driving your rental car in San Clemente is a pleasurable experience thanks to the city's excellent highways and freeways. You must drive cautiously, especially when approaching the central business district, which is always congested because it is the main commercial and entertainment hub. On its major roads, the city also has high-occupancy vehicle lanes, which require at least two people to be in the car when driving in these lanes. Pay more attention to the weather in the winter because the city gets a lot of snow. It is recommended to carry a flashlight and a supply kit in case of an emergency because the cold and wet conditions create black ice, increasing the risk of an accident.
- Even though traffic in San Clemente is rarely severe, major roads leading into the city are frequently congested during rush hour. The city's rush hour is usually from 6 am to 8:30 am, with peak congestion from 7 am to 7:30 am, and rush hour in the evening is usually from 5 pm to 7 pm. When approaching major interchanges, keep an eye out for traffic lights, as most of them are equipped with cameras to catch reckless or overspeeding drivers.
- 25% of our users found rental cars in San Clemente for $45 or less
- Book your rental car in San Clemente at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
- Mini rental cars in San Clemente are around 28% more expensive than other car types, on average
FAQs about renting a car in San Clemente
How much does it cost to rent a car in San Clemente?
On average a rental car in San Clemente costs $53 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 San Clemente found in the last 2 weeks is $24.
What is the cheapest car rental company in San Clemente?
In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Hertz ($32/day).
How much is gas price in San Clemente?
The average gas price in San Clemente is $3.93 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $47 and $63, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in San Clemente?
Mini (Chrysler Pacifica or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in San Clemente.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Los Angeles airport (LAX)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Los Angeles airport to off-airport locations include Airport Van, Priceless, Midway, Sixt, Hertz, Alamo, Budget, Thrifty, NU Car, and Enterprise Rent-A-Car.
How can I find car rentals near me in San Clemente?
Take a look at our extensive car rental location map to find the best rental cars near you.
How much does a Mini car rental cost in San Clemente?
A Mini car rental in San Clemente costs $102 per day, on average.
How much does a Standard car rental cost in San Clemente?
A Standard car rental in San Clemente costs $98 per day, on average.
How much does an Economy car rental cost in San Clemente?
An Economy car rental in San Clemente costs $64 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in San Clemente?
In San Clemente, cars are most frequently rented at Hertz 24001 Via Fabricante Ste 1001 (14 miles from city center).
How much does it cost to rent a car for a week in San Clemente?
On average a rental car in San Clemente costs $372 per week ($53 per day).
How much does it cost to rent a car long term for a month in San Clemente?
On average a rental car in San Clemente costs $1,594 per month ($53 per day).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in San Clemente?
Most car rental providers in San Clemente offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in San Clemente, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in San Clemente?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 3 car rental agencies in San Clemente.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in San Clemente?
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 San Clemente?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in San Clemente so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
What type of car is recommended for driving in San Clemente?
If you're visiting the city for pleasure and intend to take a road trip along the California coast, a convertible is a fun option, especially when the weather is nice. A convertible top car allows you to drive while enjoying the California sun and scenic views on the road. However, a minivan is a good option if you're traveling with the entire family because it has enough space for everyone. If you're visiting during the winter, consider renting a powerful SUV to help you navigate the icy roads.
What is the speed limit in San Clemente?
Different San Clemente roads have different speed limits. In the city center, the speed limit is typically 35 miles per hour, but it may be reduced to 25 miles per hour in certain residential, school, or hospital areas. Depending on where you are, the speed limit on urban roads and two-lane highways range from 55 mph to 65 mph. The rural interstate highway speed limit is 70 mph. Always watch out for roadside posted speed limits to avoid being handed a speeding ticket.
What are the best places to park in San Clemente?
Parking for your car rental in San Clemente is easy because the city has on-street parking meters. San Clemente street parking is paid for from 8 am to 8 pm, Monday through Saturday, but it is free after those hours, on Sundays, and public holidays. There are, however, other paid parking lots and garages throughout the city where you can park your San Clemente rental car safely. These garages include the Cascadia parking garage, San Clemente Metrolink station, and Beach Club Road parking.
San Clemente car rental reviews and directory
Hertz
6.7
Okay
33 reviewsCleanliness
6.5
Comfort
7.0
Pick-up/Drop-off
7.0
Value for money
7.0
2 locations in San Clemente
Locations in San Clemente
25135 Park Lantern
+1 949 661 1104
63 Via Pico Plaza
+1 949 498 7710
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Mar 2021
Pros:
Clean car and exactly what I wantedCons:
It was as good as expected2.0 Poor
Feb 2020
Cons:
Although I was confirmed for a call at noon, when I arrived at the site, the agent advised that no car would arrive until 1pm and that she could not promise that she could fulfill our rental reserve.10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2020
Cons:
Nothing. The agent was great. Fast service. Great car10.0 Wonderful
Jul 2019
Pros:
Pick up and drop off quick and easy.4.0 Mediocre
Dec 2018
Pros:
Clean car, ran well.Cons:
This location is hidden in the back of a shopping center and very hard to find. When I showed up they told me they did not have the car or class of car that I had reserved. They gave me a small SUV instead of a midsize. Whatever, but I wanted the lower gas mileage. When I returned the vehicle, they charged me an extra $28 for being 14 minutes 'late' ($2/minute is a bit ridiculous). This was after one of their employees had told me by phone that it would not matter if I picked up or dropped off the vehicle a little bit late or a little bit early. I would look around to avoid picking up at this location again.4.8 Mediocre
Apr 2018
Pros:
Pick up and drop off of the car was easy and I had nuxe customer service.Cons:
The car was horrible and it was extremely expensive with a lot of hidden fees.Enterprise Rent-A-Car
8.6
Very good
16 reviewsCleanliness
8.6
Comfort
8.6
Pick-up/Drop-off
8.6
Value for money
8.6
2 locations in San Clemente
Locations in San Clemente
1002 N El Camino Real
+1 949 366 1161
26181 Avenida Aeropuerto Ste B
+1 949 487 9075
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Sep 2020
Pros:
The staff was fantastic both at the beginning and at the end of the rental. My husband left his sunglasses in the car and they called within 30 minutes of drop off to tell us. They are fantastic - will definitely rent from them again.Cons:
Absolutely nothing. They did an above and beyond service. Cheerful, helpful, didn't pressure us for an upgrade but let us make the decision. Very professional and I couldn't be more pleased with the rental experience.10.0 Wonderful
Apr 2020
Pros:
Every step was super smooth6.0 Okay
Oct 2019
Pros:
I ended up NOT renting a car. I did mot need the rental.10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2019
Pros:
We rented a minivan for a family overnight visit to San Diego.Easy from the start. I was able to park my car at the location which made getting the van and returning SO much easier. Josh was friendly and helpful. Could not have gone better and plan to use them for any car rental needs in the future.2.0 Poor
Apr 2019
Cons:
Enterprise would not honor your rate. I had to find alternative.10.0 Wonderful
Jan 2019
Pros:
Good service, I like happy people.Cons:
The office was pretty dirty, leafs and dirt on the floor. It’s the first thing people see when they come so in my opinion it needs some work. Same for when I returned the car, garbage on the ground and stuff you could recycle in the garbage. Cmon people you can do better then that. VeroAvis
No score available yet
3 locations in San Clemente
Locations in San Clemente
28201 Marguerite Pkwy
+1 949 347 0016
30242 Crown Valley Parkway 2b
+1 949 362 9187
33161 Camino Capistrano
+1 949 388 3365
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Aug 2018
Pros:
Friendly customer front desk.Cons:
no complaints others than it's far from the airport and I had to take an Uber...but that's the price you pay for paying less for a rental10.0 Wonderful
Sep 2017
Pros:
Customer service at pickup.Cons:
No backup camera on vehicle.10.0 Wonderful
Jul 2017
Pros:
The Agent was very friendly and accommodating.10.0 Wonderful
Jun 2017
Pros:
The staff was friendly and fairCons:
I liked everything. This location and staff is really good!2.0 Poor
Jan 2017
Pros:
They had no cars available when I arrived, they wouldn't call any other branch to see what was available. Your app would not allowed to cancel the reservation so I couldn't look for another rental company. I had to call around and end up paying double of what I wanted. Horrible experience!10.0 Wonderful
Aug 2023
Budget
No score available yet
2 locations in San Clemente
Locations in San Clemente
30242 Crown Valley Parkway 2b
+1 949 249 7826
33161 Camino Capistrano
+1 949 429 1646
Filters
Reviews
10.0 Wonderful
Nov 2023
2.0 Poor
Jul 2018
Cons:
They didn’t have the car I paid for7.2 Good
Jul 2016
Pros:
Very convenient for me.Cons:
Agent could resolve my reservation amount vs billed amount. I believe AVIS has always handled this if there's a problem.Rent-4-Less
No score available yet
One location in San Clemente
Locations in San Clemente
1645 North El Camino Real
(949) 492-2140
Filters
No reviews available
Car rental locations in or near San Clemente
When to book a rental car in San Clemente
Airports serving San Clemente
Popular rental types in San Clemente
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