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San Clemente car hire

Driver's age: 26-65
Tue 23/4
Tue 30/4

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San Clemente car hire information

Pick-up locationSan Clemente
Car types
Hire locations3
Airport locations0

Cheap car hire in San Clemente

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Mini
Economy
Compact
Intermediate
Standard
Full-size
Luxury
People carrier
Passenger van
SUV
Commercial
Pick-up truck

KAYAK’s top tips for hiring 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.
  • Book your car hire in San Clemente at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Mini car hire in San Clemente are around -31% cheaper than other car types, on average

FAQs about hiring a car in San Clemente

  • How much is the price of fuel in San Clemente?

    The average price of fuel in San Clemente is R72,97 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between R876 and R1 167, depending on the car size.

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

    Mini (Chrysler Pacifica or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in San Clemente.

  • Which car hire agencies are at Los Angeles airport (LAX)?

    Car hire companies onsite at Los Angeles airport include Dollar, Thrifty, Avis and Sixt.

  • Which car hire companies will pick you up at Los Angeles airport (LAX)?

    Car hire companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Los Angeles airport to off-airport locations include Dollar, Thrifty, Avis and Sixt.

  • How can I find car hires near me in San Clemente?

    Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

  • How much does a Mini car hire cost in San Clemente?

    A Mini car hire in San Clemente costs R1 939 per day, on average.

  • How much does an Economy car hire cost in San Clemente?

    An Economy car hire in San Clemente costs R1 209 per day, on average.

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

    A Compact car hire in San Clemente costs R737 per day, on average.

  • 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

7,1

Cleanliness

6.8

Comfort

7.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.3

Value for money

7.3

2 locations in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

25135 Park Lantern

+1 949 661 1104

Monday13:00 - 17:3007:30 - 12:00
Tuesday13:00 - 17:3007:30 - 12:00
Wednesday07:30 - 12:0013:00 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 12:0013:00 - 17:30
Friday13:00 - 17:3007:30 - 12:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday09:00 - 13:00

63 Via Pico Plaza

+1 949 498 7710

Monday08:00 - 13:00
Tuesday08:00 - 13:00
Wednesday08:00 - 13:00
Thursday08:00 - 13:00
Friday08:00 - 13:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00

Filters

Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Mar 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Clean car and exactly what I wanted

Cons:

It was as good as expected

2,0 Poor

Feb 2020

KAYAK

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

KAYAK

Cons:

Nothing. The agent was great. Fast service. Great car

10,0 Wonderful

Jul 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Pick up and drop off quick and easy.

4,0 Mediocre

Dec 2018

KAYAK

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

KAYAK

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.

1 out of 6

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8,6

Very Good

16 reviews
Best rated

Cleanliness

8.6

Comfort

8.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.6

Value for money

8.6

2 locations in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

1002 N El Camino Real

+1 949 366 1161

Monday08:00 - 13:00
Tuesday08:00 - 13:00
Wednesday08:00 - 13:00
Thursday08:00 - 13:00
Friday08:00 - 13:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

26181 Avenida Aeropuerto Ste B

+1 949 487 9075

Monday07:30 - 12:00
Tuesday08:00 - 13:00
Wednesday08:00 - 13:00
Thursday08:00 - 13:00
Friday08:00 - 13:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Filters

Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

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

Apr 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Every step was super smooth

6,0 Okay

Oct 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

I ended up NOT renting a car. I did mot need the rental.

10,0 Wonderful

Jun 2019

KAYAK

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

KAYAK

Cons:

Enterprise would not honor your rate. I had to find alternative.

10,0 Wonderful

Jan 2019

KAYAK

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. Vero

1 out of 4

Budget

No score available yet

3 locations in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

28201 Marguerite Pkwy

+1 949 347 0339

Monday08:00 - 13:00
Tuesday08:00 - 13:00
Wednesday08:00 - 13:00
Thursday08:00 - 13:00
Friday08:00 - 13:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday08:00 - 13:00

30242 Crown Valley Parkway 2b

+1 949 249 7826

Monday08:00 - 13:00
Tuesday08:00 - 13:00
Wednesday08:00 - 13:00
Thursday08:00 - 13:00
Friday08:00 - 13:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday08:00 - 13:00

33161 Camino Capistrano

+1 949 429 1646

Monday08:00 - 13:00
Tuesday08:00 - 13:00
Wednesday08:00 - 13:00
Thursday08:00 - 13:00
Friday08:00 - 13:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday08:00 - 13:00

Filters

Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Nov 2023

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

8,0 Very Good

Sep 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Drop-off was easy and super low-key. No hassle pick-up. Car was in good condition. Reasonable price.

Cons:

Drop-off was intended for Labor Day (Sept 2) but the location (and every other location) was closed. I wasn't aware that I'd be unable to return the vehicle, and have yet to find out if Budget is going to charge us for the extra day despite no heads-up and no alternative drop-off options.

2,0 Poor

Aug 2018

KAYAK

Cons:

I called Friday afternoon and reserved a mini van for a 24 hour rental and scheduled a noon pick up on Saturday. I received a call at 10 am on Saturday morning from Budget saying they did not have my vehicle. I called customer service, and they found a rental 1/2 hour away in the opposite direction. After negotiating with C.R., they agreed to give me the van for the same price. But, it was too late to find a ride to pick it up. I was very upset.

2,0 Poor

Jul 2018

KAYAK

Cons:

They didn’t have the car I paid for

2,0 Poor

Sep 2017

KAYAK

Cons:

Reserved a car but was notified the day of my rental that there were no cars available. A rep apparently called to let me know AFTER my reservation time had passed but didn't leave a message. Fortunately, I called to make sure my car would be ready, at which point the rep just told me that they didn't have any cars and to call about store and provided no additional assistance. I spent an hour on the phone ensuring that the guaranteed price would be honored at another location and had to speak to 3 different customer service reps (some of whom were rude) and had to cover the cost of travel to another rental location at the last minute.

7,2 Good

Jul 2016

KAYAK

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.

1 out of 4

Avis

No score available yet

2 locations in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

30242 Crown Valley Parkway 2b

+1 949 362 9187

Monday08:00 - 13:00
Tuesday08:00 - 13:00
Wednesday08:00 - 13:00
Thursday08:00 - 13:00
Friday08:00 - 13:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday08:00 - 13:00

33161 Camino Capistrano

+1 949 388 3365

Monday08:00 - 13:00
Tuesday08:00 - 13:00
Wednesday08:00 - 13:00
Thursday08:00 - 13:00
Friday08:00 - 13:00
Saturday08:00 - 13:00
Sunday08:00 - 13:00

Filters

Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Aug 2018

KAYAK

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 rental

10,0 Wonderful

Jun 2017

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was friendly and fair

Cons:

I liked everything. This location and staff is really good!

2,0 Poor

Jan 2017

KAYAK

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

Jun 2023

KAYAK
Wonderful! Service was excellent and the car was spotless … Will definitely rent through Avis again in the future ..

4,0 Mediocre

Feb 2022

KAYAK
I was told the insurance would be $30 total when it was really $30 per day extra

1 out of 2

Rent-4-Less

No score available yet

One location in San Clemente

Show locations

Locations in San Clemente

1645 North El Camino Real

(949) 492-2140

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

79 travellers who hired a car in San Clemente gave the car agency they used an average rating of 7.5

Car hire locations in or near San Clemente

Good to know

Most popular car type

Mini

When to book a car hire in San Clemente

Average daily price per month
Car hire prices as pick-up date approaches