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Top rated rental cars in San Bernardino, CA
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San Bernardino, nestled in the heart of Southern California, offers a blend of urban excitement and natural beauty. From the stunning San Bernardino Mountains to the vibrant downtown area, this city has something for everyone. Booking a rental car allows visitors to explore the diverse attractions at their own pace, from scenic drives through the nearby national forests to discovering hidden gems in the city's historic districts. With a rental car, you'll have the freedom to experience all that San Bernardino and its surrounding areas have to offer.
Anthony L.
Roman M.
Recent reviews
Jesus’s communication was clear, simple, and helpful throughout the rental period.
The car is beautiful & the host is really nice I will definitely rent again
The best experience I've had, good communication and excellent car, very clean and modern.
San Bernardino boasts a variety of must-see destinations easily accessible by rental car. From natural wonders to cultural landmarks, the city offers diverse experiences for all types of travelers. Having a rental car gives you the flexibility to explore these attractions at your leisure, allowing you to create your own adventure and make the most of your visit to this vibrant Southern California city.
The San Bernardino National Forest is a breathtaking natural wonderland that showcases the region's diverse ecosystems. With your rental car, you can easily access the forest's numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic viewpoints. The forest offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, photography, and outdoor recreation. As you drive through the winding mountain roads, you'll be treated to stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. Remember to check your rental car's features for off-road capabilities if you plan to explore more rugged areas.
The California Theatre of the Performing Arts is a cultural gem in downtown San Bernardino. This beautifully restored 1928 movie palace now hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, plays, and dance shows. With your rental car, you can easily reach this iconic venue and enjoy a night of entertainment. The theater is surrounded by various restaurants, making it convenient to plan a dinner and show outing. When driving to the theater, be aware that parking can be limited during popular events, so arrive early to secure a spot.
The San Bernardino County Museum offers a fascinating journey through the region's natural and cultural history. With your rental car, you can conveniently visit this educational attraction, which features exhibits on local wildlife, geology, and Native American culture. The museum's outdoor gardens and sculptures provide additional points of interest. As you drive to the museum, you'll pass through charming neighborhoods that showcase the city's architectural diversity. The museum has ample parking, making it an easy and stress-free destination for those with a rental car.
Here's how to reach San Bernardino:
- By plane: Fly into Ontario International Airport, then drive your rental car to San Bernardino.
- By train: Take Amtrak or Metrolink to San Bernardino station, then pick up your rental car nearby.
- By car: Drive on major highways like I-10 or I-215, which connect San Bernardino to surrounding cities.
When booking a car in San Bernardino, consider these helpful tips: Reserve early on Turo for the best selection, and choose a vehicle that suits your planned activities, whether it's city exploration or mountain drives. Look for extras like GPS navigation for easy route-finding, or a bike rack if you plan to explore local trails. During summer, air conditioning is a must-have feature. If you're visiting in winter, consider a vehicle with all-wheel drive for potential mountain trips. Remember to check the car's fuel efficiency for longer journeys around Southern California.
San Bernardino offers several convenient pickup locations for rental cars, including options near downtown. Guests can find a variety of vehicles from Hosts on Turo throughout the city. The downtown area, particularly around E Street and 2nd Street, is a popular spot for car rentals. Many Hosts on Turo offer pickup locations near major landmarks like the California Theatre of the Performing Arts or the Robert and Frances Fullerton Museum of Art. For those seeking more flexibility, some Hosts on Turo provide delivery options, allowing guests to arrange pickup at their preferred location within San Bernardino. Whether you're looking for an SUV, a luxury car, or a practical sedan for your San Bernardino adventure, you'll find diverse rental car choices on Turo's peer-to-peer marketplace.
San Bernardino offers several picturesque driving routes for those seeking scenic views and relaxation. The Rim of the World Scenic Byway, winding through the San Bernardino National Forest, provides breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Another option is the route to Big Bear Lake, where you can enjoy stunning lake views and lush forest scenery. For a more desert-like experience, consider driving through the Mojave National Preserve, showcasing unique rock formations and diverse plant life. These routes are perfect for guests with a rental car, allowing you to explore the natural beauty of the area at your own pace. Remember to pack snacks, water, and a camera to capture the memorable views along the way.
Navigating peak hour traffic in San Bernardino requires some strategic planning. Utilize traffic apps or local radio stations to stay informed about current road conditions and potential bottlenecks. Consider adjusting your travel times to avoid the busiest periods, typically between 7-9 AM and 4-6 PM on weekdays. If possible, use alternative routes to bypass congested areas, such as taking surface streets instead of highways during rush hours. San Bernardino's carpool lanes can be beneficial if you're eligible to use them. When renting a car in San Bernardino, opt for a vehicle with good fuel efficiency to minimize stops during heavy traffic. Patience is key – leave early, stay calm, and maintain a safe following distance to ensure a smoother commute through the city's busy periods.
When exploring San Bernardino and its diverse surroundings, the ideal car type depends on your specific plans. For city driving and short trips, a compact or midsize car offers good maneuverability and fuel efficiency. If you're planning to venture into the nearby mountains or national forests, an SUV or crossover provides better ground clearance and stability on varied terrain. For those interested in desert excursions, a vehicle with good air conditioning and reliability in hot conditions is essential. Luxury cars can enhance your experience if you're planning a special occasion or want added comfort for longer drives. Electric vehicles are also a great option, with charging stations becoming increasingly available in the area. Whatever your choice, ensure your San Bernardino rental car suits your itinerary and provides comfort for your adventures.
Downtown San Bernardino offers various convenient parking options for visitors. Several public parking lots and structures are scattered throughout the area, providing easy access to local attractions and businesses. Street parking is also available, but be sure to check posted signs for time limits and restrictions. Some popular spots include the parking facilities near the Court Street Square and around the San Bernardino County Government Center. Many restaurants and shops in the downtown area have dedicated parking lots for customers. If you're planning to spend an extended time exploring downtown, consider using one of the all-day parking lots to avoid worrying about time limits. Remember to keep valuables out of sight in your rental car and always lock the doors when parking in any urban area.
Driving safely in San Bernardino's urban and suburban areas requires attention and adherence to local traffic laws. Always obey posted speed limits, which can vary between different areas. Be particularly cautious in school zones and residential neighborhoods. In urban areas, watch for pedestrians and cyclists, especially at intersections and crosswalks. When driving in suburban areas, be aware of children playing and vehicles pulling out of driveways. Use your turn signals consistently and check your blind spots before changing lanes. Avoid distractions while driving, keeping your focus on the road. In San Bernardino, it's important to be prepared for sudden changes in weather, particularly during the summer months when temperatures can soar. Ensure your rental car's air conditioning is functioning properly for a comfortable and safe drive.
Preparing for long-distance trips from San Bernardino requires thoughtful planning. First, ensure your rental car is suitable for the journey, considering factors like comfort and fuel efficiency. Before departing, check your vehicle's tire pressure and fluid levels. Plan your route in advance, considering potential stops for rest and refueling. Pack an emergency kit with water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. If traveling to desert areas, bring extra water and sunscreen. For mountain destinations, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potential altitude changes. Check weather forecasts and road conditions, especially if crossing varied terrains. Take regular breaks to stay alert, and share driving responsibilities if possible. Lastly, inform someone of your travel plans and estimated arrival time for added safety. With proper preparation, your long-distance trip from San Bernardino can be enjoyable and stress-free.
Driving an electric vehicle (EV) in San Bernardino can be a great experience with proper planning. The city and surrounding areas are becoming increasingly EV-friendly, with a growing network of charging stations. Before your trip, research and map out charging locations along your planned routes. Many hotels and shopping centers in San Bernardino now offer charging facilities for guests. When renting an EV, familiarize yourself with its range and charging requirements. Be mindful that mountainous terrain and extreme temperatures can affect battery performance. Plan your charging stops strategically, especially for longer trips to nearby attractions. Consider using EV-specific apps to locate charging stations and plan your journey efficiently. Lastly, always have a backup plan and allow extra time for charging to ensure a stress-free electric driving experience in San Bernardino.
While driving in and around San Bernardino, it's important to be aware of potential toll roads in the broader Southern California region. Although San Bernardino itself doesn't have toll roads within the city limits, you may encounter them when venturing to nearby areas. For instance, if you're planning trips to Orange County or parts of Riverside County, you might come across toll roads like the 91 Express Lanes or the 15 Express Lanes. When renting a car in San Bernardino, discuss toll payment options with your provider. Many rental cars are equipped with electronic toll transponders, but usage fees may apply. Alternatively, you can often pay tolls online after your trip. Always check your planned route for potential toll roads and prepare accordingly to avoid unexpected charges or penalties during your San Bernardino area travels.
* Any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your protection plan, except in limited situations for trips booked in Maryland, but this protects your own wallet. In the US, liability insurance is provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company. Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply. The policy does not provide coverage for damage to a host’s vehicle.
For questions or information about the third party liability insurance for trips in the US, consumers in Maryland and the licensed states listed here may contact Turo Insurance Agency at (415) 508-0283 or claims@turo.agency. For questions about how damage to a host’s vehicle is handled, visit the Turo Support site. When a trip is booked in the state of Washington, physical damage to the host’s vehicle is covered by insurance purchased by Turo, but the Turo insurance does not change the contractual responsibilities of hosts or guests with respect to physical damage to a host’s vehicle.