San Clemente car rentals from $24/day

This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car rental in San Clemente with a pick-up date of 2/20 and drop-off date of 2/24. 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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Cheap car rentals in San Clemente

Discover the best prices and deals for you by selecting your travel dates.
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Hyundai Accent car
Hyundai Accent
or similar SMALL
2
2
4-5
$25/day
Nissan Versa Note car
Nissan Versa Note
or similar SMALL
4
2
4-5
$25/day
Mazda Mazda3 car
Mazda Mazda3
or similar MEDIUM
5
3
2/4
$27/day
Chrysler Pacifica car
Chrysler Pacifica
or similar VAN
5
5
4-5
$58/day
Chevrolet Tahoe car
Chevrolet Tahoe
or similar SUV
5
2
4-5
$84/day
Nissan Maxima car
Nissan Maxima
or similar LARGE
5
5
2/4
$32/day
Chrysler 300 car
Chrysler 300
or similar LUXURY
5
5
4-5
$50/day
Class Special Car car
Class Special Car
or similar Category
5
5
2/4
$24/day
Ford Escape car
Ford Escape
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$32/day
Jeep Compass car
Jeep Compass
or similar SUV
4
2
4-5
$32/day
Hyundai Santa Fe car
Hyundai Santa Fe
or similar SUV
5
3
4-5
$35/day
Best rates found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

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 $36 or less
  • Book your rental car in San Clemente at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Luxury rental cars in San Clemente are around 88% more expensive than other car types, on average
See more tips

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 $48 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 $30.

  • What is the cheapest car rental company in San Clemente?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest rental cars were found at Dollar ($24/day), Thrifty ($25/day) and Hertz ($25/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest rental car price was found at Dollar 63 Via Pico Plaza 92672 (1 miles from city center).

  • How much is gas price in San Clemente?

    The average gas price in San Clemente is $3.40 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $41 and $54, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular rental car in San Clemente?

    Luxury (Cadillac Escalade or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in San Clemente.

  • Which car rental companies are at Los Angeles airport (LAX)?

    Car rental companies onsite at Los Angeles airport include Ace, Right Cars, MEXRENTACAR, Priceless, NextCar, Economy Rent a Car, Payless, Yesaway, Airport Van and EL8 Luxury Car Rental.

  • 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 Right Cars, Priceless, Economy Rent a Car, Payless, Airport Van, NU Car, and U-Save.

  • 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 Luxury car rental cost in San Clemente?

    A Luxury car rental in San Clemente costs $167 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Compact car rental cost in San Clemente?

    A Compact car rental in San Clemente costs $37 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Full Size car rental cost in San Clemente?

    A Full Size car rental in San Clemente costs $34 per day, on average.

  • What is the most popular rental car location in San Clemente?

    In San Clemente, cars are most frequently rented at United Auto Rental 3931 Birch Street (22 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 $336 per week ($48 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 $1,442 per month ($48 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 5 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.

See more FAQs

San Clemente car rental reviews and directory 
All ratings and reviews are collected from KAYAK users with a verified car rental booking. Learn how KAYAK collects reviews.

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

10.0

Best rated

Cleanliness

10.0

Comfort

10.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

10.0

Value for money

10.0

2 locations in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

1002 N El Camino Real

+1 949 366 1161

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

26181 Avenida Aeropuerto Ste B

+1 949 487 9075

Monday07:30 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

michael, May 2024

Luxury

KAYAK
Staff was great, got me in and out quickly.

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Sep 2020

KAYAK

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

Anonymous, Apr 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Every step was super smooth

1 out of 1

Hertz

Cheapest deal
Most popular

Cleanliness

6.0

Comfort

6.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.5

Value for money

6.5

2 locations in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

25135 Park Lantern

+1 949 661 1104

Monday07:30 - 17:3013:00 - 17:30
Tuesday13:00 - 17:3007:30 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 17:3013:00 - 17:30
Thursday13:00 - 17:3007:30 - 17:30
Friday07:30 - 17:3013:00 - 17:30
Saturday08:00 - 17:30
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

63 Via Pico Plaza

+1 949 498 7710

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Show reviews that mention

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Anonymous, Mar 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Clean car and exactly what I wanted

Cons:

It was as good as expected

1 out of 1

Dollar

5.7

Fair

One location in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

63 Via Pico Plaza

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

No reviews available

Thrifty

5.6

Fair

One location in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

63 Via Pico Plaza

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

No reviews available

Budget

No score available yet

2 locations in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

30242 Crown Valley Parkway 2b

+1 949 249 7826

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday08:00 - 17:30
Sunday08:00 - 17:30

33161 Camino Capistrano

+1 949 429 1646

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday08:00 - 17:30
Sunday08:00 - 17:30

Filters

Reviews

10.0 Wonderful

Renee, Nov 2023

Economy

KAYAK
Customer service rep at the counter was very pleasant and helpful!

1 out of 1

Avis

No score available yet

One location in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

33161 Camino Capistrano

+1 949 388 3365

Monday08:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:30
Thursday08:00 - 17:30
Friday08:00 - 17:30
Saturday08:00 - 17:30
Sunday08:00 - 17:30

Filters

No reviews available

Rent-4-Less

No score available yet

One location in San Clemente

Locations in San Clemente

1645 North El Camino Real

(949) 492-2140

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

9 travelers who rented a car in San Clemente gave the car agency they used an average rating of 5.6

Car rental locations in or near San Clemente

Traveling to a place near San Clemente?

Rent a car at San Clemente if you plan to visit one of these locations
Avalon
Big Bear
Ojai
Lake Arrowhead
Capistrano Beach
Montecito
California City
San Marino
Winchester

Good to know

Most popular agency

Hertz

Most popular car type

Luxury

Average price

$48/day

Good deal

$36/day

When to book a rental car in San Clemente

Average daily price per month
Rental car prices as pick-up date approaches

San Clemente car rental information

Pick-up locationSan Clemente
Car typesCompact, Compact SUV, Economy, Full-size SUV, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, Luxury, Minivan, Premium, Standard SUV, Supplier choice
Rental locations5
Airport locations0
Popular agenciesDollar, Hertz, Thrifty, Turo

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