San Diego car hire

Driver's age: 26-65
Mon 11/12
Noon
Mon 18/12
Noon

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San Diego car hire information

Pick-up locationSan Diego
Car typesFull-size, Intermediate, Intermediate SUV, People carrier, Standard SUV
Hire locations134
Airport locations62
Popular agenciesEuropcar, Sixt

Cheap car hire in San Diego

IntermediateR828/day
Full-sizeR861/day
People carrierR1 156/day
Intermediate SUVR929/day
Standard SUVR1 070/day
Best prices found by KAYAK users in the past 48 hours.

KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in San Diego

  • Driving around San Diego is the most convenient and comfortable way of getting to know all corners of the region, as the freeway system is fairly easy to navigate and traffic is manageable (aside from during rush hour). Because public transportation services are unreliable in the city, staying mobile by renting a car is the best option. It is also ideal for travelers looking to explore other destinations outside the city, such as the wine country of nearby Temecula, or those who want to embark on a road trip along the California coast.
  • All the big car hire agencies can be found in the San Diego International Airport (SAN), at the Consolidated hire Car Center just outside the airport. The hire Car Center is accessible via free shuttle bus services that stop at all terminals.
  • Although the freeway system isn't generally complicated, always have a map or a GPS on hand to help you. When driving downtown, beware of tourists or other reckless drivers who may be too used to driving in the city. If you’re interested in hopping across the border to Mexico, make sure you talk to your hire agency, as they may need to provide specific documentation, such as car insurance that is also valid in the neighboring country. But if your plan includes a day trip to Tijuana, it's easier to just park your car on the U.S. side of the border and walk across.
  • Although traffic is manageable, roads are usually fairly busy throughout San Diego, so avoid rush hours both in the morning (between 6:30 and 10 a.m.) and afternoon (between 3:30 and 6:30 pm) if you don't want to be stuck in traffic for longer than needed. Freeways along the coast also get pretty packed on weekends, especially the I-5.
  • 25% of our users found a car hire in San Diego for R847 or less
  • Book your car hire in San Diego at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Supplier choice car hire in San Diego are around 47% cheaper than other car types, on average

San Diego car hire experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travellers who hired a car in San Diego 
Verified travelerDec 2023
Try to rent directly from the Company. Sometimes they have way better offers!
Verified travelerDec 2023
Not sure how I feel about the car renting business right now.
PattiNov 2023
Driving in San Diego is a breeze with a GPS. Avoid the major highways during rush hour and you’ll have no issues. All of the main attractions were within a short driving distance from our Airport- Harbor Island hotel Rent from a a major company - AVOID U-Save. It did save some $ but not worth the aggravation.
Verified travelerOct 2023
If you have car insurance then it most likely have rental car coverage. Dont bother buying extra insurance from the rental agencies. Always best to call your car ins company and check about the coverage then if the rental co tries to pile this on you have some knowledge to deny it.
EnmanuelNov 2023
Go to Avis, they are great
GaryNov 2023
Make sure your rental company allows you to drive out of the area. Payless only lets you drive in SoCal, so I had to change to Thrifty at the last minute since I was doing a road trip to Colorado. Turn-in at San Diego is really easy for all rental agencies. The new car rental facility is really nice.
KathleenSep 2023
A little crazy compared to the midwest. Use navigation tools, with voice, and know that a slight right sometimes means a 360 degree turn. Also it will tell you to stay in the far right lane and 2 seconds later there are 2 new lanes on the right.
Verified travelerOct 2023
Park where you have plenty of room. My car was damaged in s hot and run while at a restaurant. Driving was fairly easy when using Google maps. Would not suggest going without proper map or directions.
Verified travelerOct 2023
Parking is limited in many areas and there may be charges for parking at hotels and restaurants, etc.
Verified travelerOct 2023
Make sure you don’t get charged over
Verified travelerOct 2023
Rent in advance and don't take no for an answer since most rental companies don't want to honour online rentals
Verified travelerAug 2023
Driving in San Diego is difficult only in that freeway traffic signage comes up quickly as the road are curvy....especially if the older highways. USE GPS and listen to it. DO NOT text and drive.
SarahAug 2023
Choose a company at the rental center and not “offsite” to save yourself the headache. We rented a car from Fox after the Economy disaster and that went very smooth.
KatherineJul 2023
I was not driving during rush hour so it was very easy. The rental location is right next to the freeway so access was very easy.
Jeri LynJun 2023
We used our navigation, and we were able to find all of our destinations quickly and easily.
ThomasJun 2023
Driving in San Diego was not difficult, especially when we used our rental cars navigation system.
Verified travelerJun 2023
Spend the extra money and go with a bigger better company
Verified travelerAug 2023
Rent from sam diego airport location. Very well run
LauraJun 2023
Make sure you bring your itinerary and foreign driver’s licence even if you also have an American driver’s licence.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Uber drivers were quite competent, but since I got screwed over by Hertz, I can't answer this personally.
ChristinaJul 2023
Call the rental places about their deposit policies because neither this company nor kayak.com made that clear
TommyJul 2023
Stick with larger companies (ie Enterprise) and rent directly from the company and not a third party.
LeahAug 2023
Parking can be a challenge, and just like any other big city, traffic can be heavy.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Don’t follow the car in front of you too closely. Avoid rush hour.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Make sure it’s closer to San Diego airport not to CBX.
HerbAug 2023
Contact the rental counter as soon as you land / arrive
Verified travelerJul 2023
Typical large city driving. No special issues or problems.
Verified travelerAug 2023
Try not to if you can
DwaineJun 2023
Just don't drive during rush hour.
Verified travelerJul 2023
Bring a car charger for phone
Verified travelerJul 2023
Parking near beaches is nightmare. Rent a spot before you go. SpotHero is good app for this.
Verified travelerMay 2023
Listen to the agent carefully as he tells you he has a larger car. Always ask how much more it will cost!
Verified travelerMay 2023
When filling gas tank, pull nozzle out when pump stops; then put nozzle back in and finish filling
Verified travelerMay 2023
Use the actual rental agency to book and not a third party.
Verified travelerMay 2023
Make sure you check the location before you travel
JoshuaMay 2023
Rent at the airport and not the office location

FAQs about hiring a car in San Diego

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in San Diego?

    An automatic lower car, such as a Ford Mustang, is the best option when navigating both the city and the coastal roads. A convertible is a great option to enjoy the scenic rides along the coast when the weather allows it.

  • What’s the speed limit in San Diego?

    The speed limit in the city is 25 miles per hour, but on urban highways it is set at 55 mph, and on rural highways it is between 65 and 70 mph. Generally, the speed limit on multi-lane freeways is 65 mph.

  • Where are the best places to park in San Diego?

    Street parking in downtown San Diego is usually available, but it tends to be quite pricey, costing around $3 for one hour, and between $10 and $30 for 24 hours. Parking laws are strictly enforced throughout the whole city, so make sure you always pay for parking. Parking in beach areas is tougher to find, but pay lots are an option.

  • How much does it cost to hire a car in San Diego?

    On average a car hire in San Diego costs R847 per day.

  • What is the cheapest car hire company in San Diego?

    In the past 72 hours, the cheapest car hires were found at Europcar (R828/day) and Sixt (R861/day). In the last 72 hours the cheapest hire car price was found at Europcar Please Go To Fox Counter 92101 (4 kilometres from the city centre).

  • What is the best car hire company in San Diego?

    Based on ratings and reviews from real users on KAYAK, the best car hire companies in San Diego are Alamo (8,9, 169 reviews), Enterprise Rent-A-Car (7,9, 244 reviews), and Sixt (7,1, 202 reviews).

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

    The average price of fuel in San Diego is R66,87 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between R802 and R1 070, depending on the car size.

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

    Supplier choice (Class Special Car or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in San Diego.

  • Which car hire agencies are at San Diego airport (SAN)?

    The only car hire company onsite at San Diego airport is Alamo.

  • Which car hire companies will pick you up at San Diego airport (SAN)?

    The only car hire company that offers shuttle or pick-up services from San Diego airport to off-airport locations is Alamo.

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

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

  • How much does a Special car hire cost in San Diego?

    A Special car hire in San Diego costs R618 per day, on average.

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

    A Compact car hire in San Diego costs R792 per day, on average.

  • How much does an Intermediate car hire cost in San Diego?

    An Intermediate car hire in San Diego costs R829 per day, on average.

  • What is the most popular car hire location in San Diego?

    In San Diego, cars are most frequently hired at Avis 3355 Admiral Boland Way (3 km from city centre ).

  • How much does it cost to hire a car for a week in San Diego?

    On average a car hire in San Diego costs R5 931 per week (R847 per day).

  • How much does it cost to hire a car long term for a month in San Diego?

    On average a car hire in San Diego costs R25 420 per month (R847 per day).

San Diego car rental reviews and directory

Hertz

Cleanliness

6.7

Comfort

6.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

5.8

Value for money

6.0

13 locations in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

1 Market Place

+1 619 702 4524

Monday09:00 - 13:30
Tuesday09:00 - 13:30
Wednesday09:00 - 13:30
Thursday09:00 - 13:30
Friday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

10920 Technology Place

Opening times not available

View deals

1120 W Laurel Street

+1 619 557 8499

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

1441 Camino Del Rio South

+1 619 294 4023

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

2667 Garnet Avenue B

+1 858 483 1015

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

2745 Otay Pacific Drive

+1 844 705 8085

Monday06:00 - 23:00
Tuesday06:00 - 23:00
Wednesday06:00 - 23:00
Thursday06:00 - 23:00
Friday06:00 - 23:00
Saturday06:00 - 23:00
Sunday06:00 - 23:00
View deals

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 619 767 5700

Monday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Tuesday06:00 - 23:0000:00 - 01:00
Wednesday06:00 - 23:0000:00 - 01:00
Thursday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Friday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Sunday06:00 - 23:0000:00 - 01:00
View deals

3370-3420 Kettner Blvd

+1 619 696 9815

Monday09:00 - 13:30
Tuesday09:00 - 13:30
Wednesday09:00 - 13:30
Thursday09:00 - 13:30
Friday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

4240 La Jolla Village Dr.

+1 858 458 0638

Monday08:00 - 17:0013:00 - 17:00
Tuesday13:00 - 17:0008:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:0013:00 - 17:00
Thursday13:00 - 17:0008:00 - 17:00
Friday13:00 - 17:0008:00 - 17:00
View deals

5910 Mission Gorge Rd Ste 600

+1 619 285 9905

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
View deals

6609 Mira Mesa Boulevard

+1 858 320 9051

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

7337 Clairemont Mesa Blvd

+1 858 503 7755

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

Carretera Aeropuerto

+52 999 911 8040

Monday04:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Tuesday04:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Wednesday00:00 - 01:0004:00 - 23:59
Thursday04:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Friday04:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:0004:00 - 23:59
Sunday04:00 - 23:5900:00 - 01:00
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Filters

Reviews

2,0 Poor

Oct 2023

KAYAK
Horrible I booked rental car for San Diego airport and got there and was told it was book for e pick up in Mexico, only other car available was for 4X the cost

10,0 Wonderful

Oct 2023

KAYAK
Agent was friendly and efficient. Vehicle was clean and worked well

2,0 Poor

Oct 2023

KAYAK
Hertz falsely accused me of smoking in the Car.. was trying to impose smoking fee for a car I did not smoke in

2,0 Poor

Sep 2023

KAYAK
Unfortunately the truck was not cleaned very well. Peanut shells were found throughout the cabin and it was clear someone had smoked cigarettes prior.

8,0 Very Good

Sep 2023

KAYAK
Would have been better with basic education on the EV charging.

2,0 Poor

Nov 2022

KAYAK
1) there were no vehicles available upon arrival. I waited and other customers ran over and jumped line. The attendants weren’t staying around long enough to regulate. 2) the vehicle was smoked in, I tried to reach out to customer service over the phone and the rep did not take my info or care. It smelled horrible but I couldn’t wait for another vehicle since there were none and needed to leave. Horrible!

1 out of 241

Payless

4,6

Mediocre

1427 reviews
Best rated

Cleanliness

5.3

Comfort

5.2

Pick-up/Drop-off

5.3

Value for money

4.5

One location in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 619 296 4966

Monday06:00 - 23:00
Tuesday06:00 - 23:00
Wednesday06:00 - 23:00
Thursday06:00 - 23:00
Friday06:00 - 23:00
Saturday06:00 - 23:00
Sunday06:00 - 23:00
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Reviews

4,0 Mediocre

Dec 2023

KAYAK
I got up charged for a midsize SUV then I got a Hyundai Kona. Literally a compact SUV at best. They asked if I wanted an upgrade for $19/day and though they offer “unlimited” miles you cannot leave a certain radius from Southern CA (Vegas is okay). Like….??? Not my first time renting from Payless, but it’s certainly my last.

2,0 Poor

Dec 2023

KAYAK
When I arrived at Payless, they told me they could not honor the deal thru priceline/Kayak. They did say they could take what I had already paid and put it towards a better rental. I ended up paying way too much for a Nissian sentra. It appeared when I made my way to the 3rd floor to pickup my car, they had plenty of cars. Not sure if this is just a payless counter scam, but I was certainly ripped off. I may never use Payless again.

2,0 Poor

Nov 2023

KAYAK
i got overcharged past what i prepaid on kayak

2,0 Poor

Nov 2023

KAYAK
I was overcharged and demanded to pay a balance despite my booking affirming no balance due

2,0 Poor

Oct 2023

KAYAK
At pickup they added $40.00 to the cost. After drop off they added $90.00 to the cost without any explanation. Never again!!!!!

4,0 Mediocre

Oct 2023

KAYAK
What I had reserved was not what I received. The customer assistant upgraded the car without my express permission making it seem like it was a deal when it was about three times the price. Will not use them again!!!

1 out of 372

Alamo

8,8

Very Good

577 reviews
Cheapest deal
Most popular

Cleanliness

9.0

Comfort

8.9

Pick-up/Drop-off

9.0

Value for money

8.5

One location in San Diego

Show locations
from R847/day

Locations in San Diego

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 833 763 1741

Monday04:30 - 23:59
Tuesday04:30 - 23:59
Wednesday04:30 - 23:59
Thursday04:30 - 23:59
Friday04:30 - 23:59
Saturday04:30 - 23:59
Sunday04:30 - 23:59
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Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Mar 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

I was able to pick up the car the night before and saved money

10,0 Wonderful

Nov 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Great service, fast easy courteous. employees seemed happy. rental car employees not usually that way.

10,0 Wonderful

Oct 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff were great. They showed us how to work some of the new features on the car. The car was in excellent condition; it was brand new!

Cons:

Nothing

9,6 Wonderful

Oct 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Alamo was great. But it was my second choice, after my first choice -- some no name rental agency called Mex, selected initially via Kayak, which routed me through Rentcars.com -- was a friggin disaster. I landed at 6 pm, the time of my reservation, only to discover that the rental office was already closed. There was no one to help me, no number to call, no customer service from anyone in that chain, including Kayak. It was a friday evening at 6. I tried 4 other rental agencies; they were either out of cars or were asking insane amounts of $$ for them. I had to get a ride from the airport, and come back the next morning to rent from Alamo. (Which was great.)

Cons:

Alamo was great. Avoid Mex Rent a Car and Rentcars.com at all costs. No one picks up the phone at Mex and you can't leave a voicemail. The number for Rentcars doesn't work, and the email responses are all in Portuguese. I'm not kidding. Why Kayak continues to use these vendors is a mystery to me. Makes me reconsider my choice in travel apps.

7,6 Good

Oct 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was helpful in securing a gas discount for me when the car I reserved wasn’t available.

Cons:

Don’t oversell cars! If I book a pickup, giving me a dodge caravan minivan because you oversold pickup trucks isn’t providing excellent service.

5,6 Fair

Sep 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Drop off was great

Cons:

Have the selected class or better available. I don’t consider an infinity to be the same class as an Escalade

1 out of 84

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Cleanliness

8.1

Comfort

8.2

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.7

Value for money

7.8

14 locations in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

1 Park Blvd

+1 619 696 5000

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

1333 Camino Del Rio South

+1 619 260 1505

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

2305 Pacific Hwy

+1 619 294 7774

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

2740 Lytton Street

+1 619 225 0848

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:00
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

2780 Garnet Ave

+1 858 490 1510

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

3299 Holiday Court

+1 858 404 0700

Monday00:00 - 01:00
Tuesday00:00 - 01:00
Wednesday00:00 - 01:00
Thursday00:00 - 01:00
Friday00:00 - 01:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:00
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 833 763 1739

Monday04:30 - 23:59
Tuesday04:30 - 23:59
Wednesday04:30 - 23:59
Thursday04:30 - 23:59
Friday04:30 - 23:59
Saturday04:30 - 23:59
Sunday04:30 - 23:59
View deals

3851 El Cajon Blvd

+1 619 229 2300

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

6330 Marindustry Dr

+1 858 455 0075

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

6620 Mira Mesa Boulevard

+1 858 404 0700

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:00
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

7993 Balboa Avenue

+1 858 560 9050

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

900 F St Ste 167

+1 619 696 5000

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

9292 Miramar Rd # 28

+1 858 689 8523

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

950 Hotel Circle North

+1 619 296 7493

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
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Show reviews that mention

Reviews

2,0 Poor

Nov 2023

KAYAK
To actually have gotten a car

2,0 Poor

Oct 2023

KAYAK
They were closed at the time I was supposed to pick up my rental. Why would you give the customer a choice of pickup times that included hours that the pickup location is closed?? Awful. Absolutely awful. Cost me hours of my time and hundreds of dollars. Will never use your site or Enterprise again.

10,0 Wonderful

May 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Everything was super easy, picking up and dropping off.

10,0 Wonderful

May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Yes

Cons:

All fine

8,0 Very Good

Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Nice car

Cons:

I had to stand in line for 90 minutes (no exaggeration) to get my rental.

8,0 Very Good

Apr 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Not the car i reserved no choice but to get it

1 out of 111

Sixt

Cleanliness

7.6

Comfort

7.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

7.1

Value for money

6.9

2 locations in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 888 749 8227

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59
View deals

Delivery/Collection Service

+1 858 764 9338

Monday10:00 - 17:00
Tuesday10:00 - 17:00
Wednesday10:00 - 17:00
Thursday10:00 - 17:00
Friday10:00 - 17:00
Saturday10:00 - 17:00
Sunday10:00 - 17:00
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Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Mar 2023

KAYAK
The front desk employe was very polite and helpful. She answered all our questions without any problem.

10,0 Wonderful

Oct 2022

KAYAK
Nice car. Fast service

10,0 Wonderful

Oct 2022

KAYAK
Excellent service from check in to check out. I could not have been happier with my experience.

10,0 Wonderful

Oct 2022

KAYAK
Professional people at the airport. Great vehicle. All-around good experience

2,0 Poor

Sep 2022

KAYAK
I chose sixth because on KAYAK it says that their rental car agency is in the terminal as opposed to the shuttle. Every rental car agency in the San Diego airport is in the rental car center which is a long way away from the airport and requires waiting in a huge line to get to it. The counter was understaffed – I canceled on the spot and booked Avis which is what I should’ve done from the beginning

6,0 Okay

Aug 2022

KAYAK
An additional fee, although only $11, was annoying.

1 out of 54

Dollar

Cleanliness

7.8

Comfort

7.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.7

Value for money

6.8

2 locations in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 866 434 2226

Monday06:00 - 23:0000:00 - 01:00
Tuesday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Wednesday06:00 - 23:0000:00 - 01:00
Thursday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Friday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Saturday06:00 - 23:0000:00 - 01:00
Sunday06:00 - 23:0000:00 - 01:00
View deals

6609 Mira Mesa Blvd

+1 858 320 9051

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

Filters

Reviews

2,0 Poor

Jun 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

I took over 70 minutes waiting in line to pick up the car. Ridiculous. Never again.

2,0 Poor

May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

A hertz employee ended up helping us because the line was so long

Cons:

Horrible experience. Will never rent from dollar again.

8,0 Very Good

Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Car was comfortable, clean and drove easily - lousy mileage, but we got the sense that Californians dont care much, given the number of gas guzzlers we saw on the road at over $4.00/gal in most service stations - mixed in with Tesla's and Prius's. Odd contrast.

Cons:

All good with exception of Drop-Off. Unclear directions in the final stretch of the exercise (needed to turn up a lane in the garage that was hidden behind other cars). No staff present and when a fellow eventually showed up, he did not check the car, just told us to leave the keys in the car and all else would be dealt with - whatever that means - if there is any disagreement on gas (we filled up), damage (there was none), etc., how would one verify it after the fact?

4,0 Mediocre

Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was helpful and friendly.

Cons:

I reserved a Nissan Pathfinder only to show up and get a Kia Sorrento. 6 people with luggage will not fit in a Kia. We had to pay a lot extra to get a Ford Expedition because they didn't have a Nissan or any SUV similar. The guy was really nice and gave us a discount for having to upgrade. I don't appreciate paying for one vehicle on this site only to show up having to pay hundreds more for a vehicle that will actually work. I will never book through here again.

10,0 Wonderful

Mar 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

It was perfect

4,0 Mediocre

Mar 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

Hard to find the car rental. Another family was lost at the airport rental site. The car had been smoked in.

1 out of 74

Budget

Cleanliness

7.2

Comfort

7.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.6

Value for money

6.6

11 locations in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

1110 Torrey Pines Road Suite H

+1 858 456 2124

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

1350 6th Ave Suite #170

+1 619 544 0510

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

1670 Kettner Boulevard Suite 1

+1 619 231 7162

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00
View deals

2790 Kurtz Street Suite 1

+1 619 574 6975

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00
View deals

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 619 680 4949

Monday00:00 - 01:00
Tuesday00:00 - 01:00
Wednesday00:00 - 01:00
Thursday00:00 - 01:00
Friday00:00 - 01:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:00
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

3890 Valley Centre Dr Ste 103

+1 858 755 7457

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

4550 La Jolla Village Drive

+1 858 320 9017

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday10:00 - 17:00
View deals

500 Hotel Circle North

+1 619 220 0294

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00
View deals

7815 Balboa Avenue

+1 858 974 8632

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

8720 Miramar Road

+1 858 271 0035

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00
View deals

Cross Border Xpress - 2745 Otay Pacific Dr

+1 619 644 1362

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59
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Reviews

2,0 Poor

Nov 2023

KAYAK
I friendly staff The truck was beat up lots of dents Got overcharged Drop off was confusing and inconvenient

2,0 Poor

Oct 2022

KAYAK
I booked the car with Kayak and they allowed me to book it at a rental location that closes at 5pm, when my flight arrived at 5pm. Therefore, I missed the pickup, and when I went to get it the next day the price was twice as much as the original.

10,0 Wonderful

Sep 2022

KAYAK
Easy service

2,0 Poor

Sep 2022

KAYAK
Horrible service/ experience. Why no one called when I was Uber to get my car they were all out. They didn’t even cancel my rental. I still had to do it even though they didn’t had the van. Please consider other car rentals.

2,0 Poor

Sep 2022

KAYAK
Rented a car with two patches in the tire. One let loose less than 40 miles down the highway. Luckily we were not in the desert driving when it happened. Roadside assistance sent us to a “more local” branch to swap out the vehicle and that branch had no clue we were coming. Total mess and I’m not stoked.

2,0 Poor

Sep 2022

KAYAK
The car wasn’t available. They canceled the reservation and we couldn’t rent a car.

1 out of 58

Thrifty

Cleanliness

7.5

Comfort

7.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.6

Value for money

6.7

2 locations in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

1120 West Laurel Street

+1 619 557 8499

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 877 283 0898

Monday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Tuesday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Wednesday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Thursday06:00 - 23:0000:00 - 01:00
Friday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:0006:00 - 23:00
Sunday06:00 - 23:0000:00 - 01:00
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Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Dec 2023

KAYAK
It was my 1st time renting an electric car. It was nice that was an option.

8,0 Very Good

Nov 2023

KAYAK
The price was good, the car was fine. However, the line to pick up the car was long. More than 12 people in line and only two representatives on a Friday? The price makes up for that delay, so I would use Thrifty again in the future.

2,0 Poor

Oct 2023

KAYAK
Not accommodating in the least.

2,0 Poor

Oct 2023

KAYAK
Terrible. There was an incident at pickup that made me feel unsafe and was exacerbated by the Thrifty staff who stated “you’re all here for the $15 dollar rental right?” “You can go to the other rental places next door.” Implying that we should wait since we were getting a low price. There is a longer narrative but the Thrifty remarks continued an escalating discussion between two other renters and there were threats of violence by one of the renters. At minimum Thrifty staff should have called facility security. I abandoned my rental at this point and left.

2,0 Poor

Sep 2023

KAYAK
Worst I. Ever had

4,0 Mediocre

May 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was helpful and courteous, but the process was too long.

Cons:

More staff, better communication

1 out of 82

Avis

Cleanliness

7.2

Comfort

7.3

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.6

Value for money

6.6

11 locations in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

1110 Torrey Pines Road Suite H

+1 858 454 4621

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

1350 6th Ave Suite #170

+1 619 544 0438

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

1670 Kettner Boulevard Suite 1

+1 619 231 7137

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00
View deals

2790 Kurtz Street Suite 1

+1 619 220 4920

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00
View deals

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 619 688 5000

Monday00:00 - 01:00
Tuesday00:00 - 01:00
Wednesday00:00 - 01:00
Thursday00:00 - 01:00
Friday00:00 - 01:00
Saturday00:00 - 01:00
Sunday00:00 - 01:00
View deals

3890 Valley Centre Dr Ste 103

+1 858 755 0400

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

4550 La Jolla Village Drive

+1 858 450 6553

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 13:30
Sunday10:00 - 17:00
View deals

500 Hotel Circle North

+1 619 574 5377

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00
View deals

7815 Balboa Avenue

+1 858 974 8630

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday09:00 - 13:30
View deals

8720 Miramar Road

+1 858 271 0018

Monday07:30 - 18:00
Tuesday07:30 - 18:00
Wednesday07:30 - 18:00
Thursday07:30 - 18:00
Friday07:30 - 18:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00
View deals

Cross Border Xpress - 2745 Otay Pacific Dr

+1 619 588 1309

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59
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Filters

Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Nov 2023

KAYAK
Sirprisingly efficient checkin. Very helpful.

2,0 Poor

Nov 2023

KAYAK
Got slid at pick up. Customer service is useless. Won’t fix the problem.

4,0 Mediocre

Oct 2023

KAYAK
Got the booking confirmation from Kayak and went to the AVIS desk and the first lady said they were out of convertibles and she can't give me that car. I then had to ask my wife to go to another teller, who I subsequently approached who was super helpful and gave us the car, so it was in the inventory! Then came the car. It was washed with brown spots all over. The car had a used lipstick, caramel sauce on the AC knobs and chips packets at the back. It drove well though

10,0 Wonderful

Sep 2023

KAYAK
Easy process & a reasonable price.

2,0 Poor

Jun 2023

KAYAK
Charged for gas but tank was full. Attendant did not want the gas receipt I offered at drop off and said “I don’t need it” when I tried to give it to him. Charged over $100 for gas. Avis has not returned emails.

2,0 Poor

Sep 2022

KAYAK
Had no cars

1 out of 98

Fox

Cleanliness

6.8

Comfort

6.8

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.3

Value for money

6.2

One location in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

3355 Admiral Boland Way

+1 619 432 0620

Monday07:00 - 23:59
Tuesday07:00 - 23:59
Wednesday07:00 - 23:59
Thursday07:00 - 23:59
Friday07:00 - 23:59
Saturday07:00 - 23:59
Sunday07:00 - 23:59
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Reviews

6,0 Okay

Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was friendly

Cons:

My vehicle was not ready on time so I had to return later. When I returned I was given the wrong vehicle, much less than I had paid for. The manager was not able to give discount because the rental was purchased thru Kayak. Will most likely never use Kayak or Fox again.

5,2 Fair

Jan 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Drop off and pick up was very easy

Cons:

We had our rental car broke into and staff that I called laughed at me saying my claim number was wrong. They also told me that if we needed to be picked up they couldn’t do it because we had a family of 5 and they could only take up to 4 people. So stayed that we had to find a ride to the airport ourselves or just drive it back in the condition it was in. They also told me that even though we had a bad situation happen if our car was not back on time we would get charged for it being late and entire extra day. We also we supposed to get a gull size car and we did not get that. Very disappointed and will not rent from them again!!!!

6,0 Okay

Jan 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

friendly staff

Cons:

took awhile to get through the line at the counter for pick-up. And, when I needed to change the credit card I initially used, I couldn't do it at drop-off. it took quite a process to get it switched.

2,8 Poor

Jan 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Fox refused to honor the price agreed upon through Kayak. They were going to charge me $65 more per day. I will never rent with Fox and may never use Kayak again.

4,4 Mediocre

Jan 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

staff was ok, but far from friendly. pickup guy failed to note the car was smashed in the side and repaired (evidenced by the non factory two tone paint work) and the return guy barely looked up from his device...

Cons:

it sure would have been nice to get the car i reserved (Toyota RAV4) or Better instead of the POS Mitsubishi Outlander (Sport(!) no less!!) i got for my family of four. poor comfort, lousy handling, acceleration, fit AND finish. an otherwise outstanding two week trip ended up be a series of non stop jokes over what a lousy vehicle we had.

6,4 Okay

Dec 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

No children's car seats, had to purchase one myself. The rental agent lied to me about local gas prices to get me to purchase gas through Fox.

1 out of 91

Economy Rent a Car

Cleanliness

6.8

Comfort

6.6

Pick-up/Drop-off

5.7

Value for money

6.2

2 locations in San Diego

Show locations

Locations in San Diego

1025 W Laurel Street

+1 844 557 2837

Opening times not available

View deals

2367 India Street

+1 619 546 4200

Opening times not available

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Filters

Reviews

2,0 Poor

Nov 2023

KAYAK
I did not like anything. ZERO. kayak advertise the daily rates for does not give you a warning about the costly rental insurance which is twice the price of daily rate. Unbelievably disappointed with KAYAK!!

2,0 Poor

Nov 2023

KAYAK
The reservation did not actually hold a car for you. Upon arrival, I was told that only prepaid customers were guaranteed the car they reserved. I was told to pay a substantially higher rate for a different car, or go elsewhere. Additionally, the kayak listing leads you to believe that they are part of the main car rental facility at the San Diego Airport. They are not, and multiple shuttles are