Become a host
  • Log in
  • Sign up
  • Become a host

  • How Turo works
  • Contact support
  • Legal
  • Insurance & protection
  • Host tools
  • Carculator

Rent cars in Emerald

Hire a car on the Turo car rental marketplace

Where
From
Until
Car hireCar rentalEmerald
Ford MUSTANG rental in Emerald, QLD, Australia

Car rental Emerald

Nestled in the heart of Central Queensland, Emerald is more than just a gem of a town — it's the gateway to the iconic Sapphire Gemfields, lush botanic gardens, and the vibrant Nogoa River. To fully experience all it has to offer, car hire in Emerald is the way to go, especially if you’re keen on exploring beyond the town’s Morton Park, where Van Gogh’s famed sunflowers are painted on an enormous easel. 

Car hire in Emerald on Turo is simple - pick up a rental vehicle and hit the road to take in Central Queensland’s top spots and (literal) hidden gems. Whether you’re after a budget-friendly compact, a spacious SUV for the whole family, or even a premium rental car to tackle the southern hemisphere’s heat in style, car hire Emerald has options to suit. So buckle up, Emerald is waiting — and you’re driving!

Emerald car hire: How it works

Emerald car hire options are as easy as it gets, whether you’re just after a rental car for a day trip to Lake Maraboon or a long-term hire to explore Queensland at your own pace. With flexible pick-up options at Emerald Airport’s terminal building and downtown, plus choices for any budget from budget compacts to premium SUVs, you can grab the keys and head off by booking on Turo.

purple lines

Find your car: 

Enter a date and location in Emerald (or beyond) and browse thousands of cars shared by local hosts. 

Book with Turo: 

Book on the Turo app or online, choose a protection plan, and say hi to your host! Cancel for free up to 24 hours before your trip, and get discounts if you book early or for a longer duration!

Hit the roads of Emerald:

Have the car delivered or pick it up from your host. Check in with the app, grab the keys, and hit the roads of Emerald!

Search cars in Emerald

Rent cars in Emerald

Things to do and places to see in Emerald

Emerald is more than just a gateway to the Sapphire Gemfields. From dazzling art installations to picturesque parks and historical sites, Emerald has attractions that blend quirky charm with natural beauty. Whether you’re wandering through themed gardens or diving into the area’s fascinating history, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

Book the perfect car
Chery TIGGO 4 PRO SUV rental in Emerald, QLD, Australia

Van Gogh Sunflower Painting

Emerald is home to the largest replica of Van Gogh's iconic sunflower painting in the Southern Hemisphere. Located in Morton Park, this 25-metre-high installation is a vibrant tribute to Emerald's early agricultural heritage. Stop by for a unique photo op and enjoy the surrounding gardens while you’re there.

Emerald Botanic Gardens

Stroll through Emerald’s Botanic Gardens, a peaceful retreat featuring themed sections like the rose garden, Japanese garden, and bush tucker garden. Nestled along the Nogoa River, these gardens are perfect for an afternoon picnic or a casual wander among Central Queensland's flora.

Fairbairn Dam and Lake Maraboon

Just a short drive from Emerald, Fairbairn Dam and Lake Maraboon offer plenty of space for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The dam in Lake Maraboon is one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, teeming with red claw crayfish, and is ideal for an adventurous day outdoors.

Recent reviews

Abdullah A.
Hyundai ACCENT 2015

More affordable and convenient than the regular rental companies

Abdullah A.
-
Maeve C.
Suzuki SWIFT 2016

Gorgeous car, no issue with anything faultless reservation!

Maeve C.
-
Brajesh R.
Holden CRUZE 2015

Great lil car And definitely very competitive price.

Brajesh R.
-
JASENTHULIYANA A.
Hyundai ACCENT 2015

Highly impressed by the excellent customer care.

JASENTHULIYANA A.
-
David M.
MG MG3 AUTO 2019

Great service , great price , great pickup and drop off.

David M.
-
Matt S.
BMW i8 2015

Great service , absolute stunning car , would recommend hiring this car to anyone .

Matt S.
-
Kia RIO 2013

The car was very easy and smooth to drive for a day trip to the blue mountains.

Grant D.
-
MG MG3 AUTO 2022

Lovely car to drive, the ur drive banner is slightly faded and the address online for 40 Baxter is further down the street so we had a bit of a hard time finding the location, besides that the car was lovely and return was very easy

Nola R.
-
Holden CRUZE 2015

I've booked with Alex multiple times and found the vehicles to be in great condition at an affordable price point.

Mark G.
-
Volkswagen GOLF 2013

Andrew’s car was really great and he was fantastic to deal with.

Carrie W.
-
Sean C.
BMW 3 SERIES 2022

Car was as described and the team really looks after me.

Sean C.
-
Suzuki BALENO 2022

Smooth pick-up and drop off experience, very convenient to deal, Cathy was warm welcoming host.

Kiran K.
-
Juan Ignacio R.
Suzuki SWIFT 2016

The car drives smoothly and is in great condition.

Juan Ignacio R.
-
Tinashe S.
BMW 3 SERIES 2022

The car We had booked was not available, but they handled the situation with the utmost care.

Tinashe S.
-
Toyota AURION 2013

The car was great, very comfortable and ran without a hitch.

Jo-Anne P.
-
Nicholas M.
MG MG3 AUTO 2022

Lovely car, cheap petrol and the guys were super fast at communicating whenever we had a question 🙂

Nicholas M.
-

Why hire a car with Turo?

Purple squiggle

More bang for your buck

Find deals on all kinds of drives in Emerald and throughout Australia - from the everyday to the extraordinary - complete with a better, more convenient experience versus Emerald car rental companies. Find the perfect vehicle for your budget.

Free cancellation

Cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your Emerald trip starts. Because life happens and it helps to be flexible when it does.

Convenient delivery options, wherever you are in Emerald

Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest in Emerald, like airports, train stations, and hotels.

Top Cities

Sydney

Top tips for hiring a car in Emerald


Hiring a car in Emerald is a fantastic way to explore Central Queensland at your own pace. From the lively town centre to scenic drives through the outback, having your own wheels makes the experience even better. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your Emerald car hire adventure!


Emerald road rules and driving conditions


In Emerald, and across Queensland, you’ll be driving on the left side of the road with a max speed limit of 50 km/h in urban areas and up to 110 km/h on open highways like the Capricorn Highway. For safety, the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limit is 0.05% for full license holders — best to keep that in mind if you’re sampling some of the local fare! Watch out for kangaroos and livestock on the roads, especially at dawn and dusk when they love to roam.

Flooding can also be an issue after heavy rain, so keep an eye on local weather reports. If you’re planning a road trip with kids, Queensland law requires appropriate car seats for all passengers under seven years old. And remember, pack supplies like water and snacks, as some stretches can be remote.


Are there toll roads in Emerald?


No need to worry about tolls — Emerald is blissfully toll-free! You’ll find that the roads here are well-maintained and scenic. Drive to your heart’s content without any surprise fees.


Petrol stations and EV chargers in Emerald


Emerald is home to a good number of petrol stations along major roads and near the town centre, so refuelling isn’t a hassle. For EV drivers, options are limited but improving, with charging stations around the Emerald Airport and nearby in the Central Highlands area. If you’re heading to more remote areas, a full tank (or charge) is always a wise idea.


Do I need to rent a car in Emerald?


Emerald has very limited public transport options, so rental cars will give you far more freedom to explore the local sights, from the Sapphire Gemfields to Lake Maraboon. While taxi services are available, a rental car lets you experience everything this unique region offers on your own schedule, making it the best choice for travellers who want to make the most of their time here.

Browse other car hire locations in Australia

Hire a car in BrisbaneHire a car in Brisbane

Hire a car in Brisbane

Hire a car in MelbourneHire a car in Melbourne

Hire a car in Melbourne

Hire a car in SydneyHire a car in Sydney

Hire a car in Sydney

Hire a car in CairnsHire a car in Cairns

Hire a car in Cairns

Hire a car in PerthHire a car in Perth

Hire a car in Perth

Hire a car in HobartHire a car in Hobart

Hire a car in Hobart

Hire a car in DarwinHire a car in Darwin

Hire a car in Darwin

Hire a car in the Gold CoastHire a car in the Gold Coast

Hire a car in the Gold Coast

Hire a car in AdelaideHire a car in Adelaide

Hire a car in Adelaide

Hire a car in QueenslandHire a car in Queensland

Hire a car in Queensland

Hire a car in WollongongHire a car in Wollongong

Hire a car in Wollongong

Hire a car in TasmaniaHire a car in Tasmania

Hire a car in Tasmania

Hire a car in Byron BayHire a car in Byron Bay

Hire a car in Byron Bay

Hire a car in BallinaHire a car in Ballina

Hire a car in Ballina

Hire a car in LauncestonHire a car in Launceston

Hire a car in Launceston

Hire a car in BroomeHire a car in Broome

Hire a car in Broome

Hire a car in RockhamptonHire a car in Rockhampton

Hire a car in Rockhampton

Frequently asked questions about Emerald car hire

What documents do I need to rent a car in Emerald with Turo? 

To book a car on Turo in Emerald, you must create a Turo account, be 21 years old or older, have a valid driver’s licence, and get approved to drive on Turo. When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s licence and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for every future road trip, business trip, and family holiday!

Car hire pickup locations throughout Emerald

Looking for convenient car hire locations in Emerald? Whether you're arriving by plane or staying at one of the popular hotels, picking up your rental is easy and hassle-free. From the airport to key spots around town, you can start your Emerald adventure in no time.

Emerald Airport (EMD)

Grab your keys straight from the airport parking lot, avoiding the airport car rental counter while you're at it. With quick access to the Capricorn Highway, you’ll be exploring Central Queensland in no time.

Emerald Central Hotel

Located near the city centre, Emerald Central Hotel is a popular spot to pick up your rental car. Perfect for those already staying in town, this location puts you minutes away from the Botanic Gardens, Nogoa River, and even a road trip to Lake Maraboon.

Emerald Motel Apartments

For visitors staying a bit longer, Emerald Motel Apartments offers another convenient car hire pickup option. Situated close to the town’s shopping and dining spots, it’s a great starting point for both business and leisure travellers looking to explore the local sights with ease.

Emerald hire car types

Emerald car hire options come in all shapes and sizes, ready to match your travel style and adventure plans. From compact cars to tackle the town to roomy SUVs and 7-seaters for family road trips, the selection has you covered. Specialty options include:

- Electric cars, like a Tesla or BYD, for eco-friendly travels around Central Queensland.

- 7-seater, minivans, and people movers to keep everyone comfortable on the road.

- Sports cars for a little added thrill on the Capricorn Highway.

- Vintage cars if you’re after classic charm in the heart of the Outback.

- Exotic and luxury car hire to turn heads wherever you go.

- Van hire and ute hire for business or outdoor adventure essentials.

- Convertibles to enjoy Queensland sunshine with the top down.

- SUVs and 4WDs, like a Ford Ranger or Toyota RAV4, for rugged road trips to Fairbairn Dam or Sapphire Gemfields.

- Compact and small cars, like a Toyota Corolla, for efficient city cruising.

- Large cars for a spacious, smooth ride through the beautiful landscapes of Central Queensland.

Find the right wheels to fit your trip and hit the road in style!

Emerald car hire for any occasion

From sightseeing trips to long-term car hire, renting a car in Emerald makes it easy to explore Central Queensland.

Holiday car hire: Hit the road and explore Emerald’s top spots, from the Botanic Gardens to the stunning Lake Maraboon. With options ranging from compact cars to spacious SUVs, you’ll be set for any kind of adventure.

Long-term car hire: Planning an extended stay? Long-term car hire is a great choice, especially if you’re here for work or simply want more time to explore. Book for a month or more and enjoy discounted rates that make it an economical choice for extended visits.

Formal car hire: Attending an event or meeting in style? With a range of premium options, you can roll up in an impressive vehicle without a long-term commitment. Perfect for corporate events, reunions, or any time you need to make a lasting impression.

Wedding car hire: Saying 'I do' in the outback? Whether you’re after a luxury sedan or a vintage look, there’s something special for every wedding style.

Emerald day trips: Explore Queensland

Emerald sits at the heart of Central Queensland, making it a prime launchpad for day trips into the rugged beauty and charm of the region. From fossicking for gemstones to exploring outback lakes and historic towns, there’s no shortage of adventure nearby.

Sapphire Gemfields

Just a 45-minute drive away, the Sapphire Gemfields in the towns of Sapphire and Rubyvale offer the thrill of unearthing hidden treasures. This is one of the largest gem fields in the world, and local mines let visitors try their hand at fossicking, with a decent chance of taking home a real sapphire or two. Visit gem shops, explore underground mine tours, or try your luck in a fossicking park.

Blackdown Tableland National Park

A little under two hours from Emerald, Blackdown Tableland National Park promises waterfalls, Aboriginal rock art, and sweeping views of the Queensland wilderness. Take a hike to Rainbow Falls or marvel at the ancient rock art along the Ghungalu art walk. This park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone seeking a quiet day surrounded by nature.

Carnarvon Gorge National Park

If you’re up for a slightly longer journey, Carnarvon Gorge National Park is about three hours from Emerald and worth the trip for its breathtaking landscapes and deep cultural history. Known for its towering sandstone cliffs, lush forests, and vibrant Aboriginal rock art sites, Carnarvon Gorge offers hikes for all levels, including the scenic Moss Garden and Amphitheatre walks. This natural gem of Central Queensland is perfect for a day of exploring or even an overnight adventure if you want to extend your stay.

Do I need my own insurance?

No, you don’t need personal insurance coverage to book a car on Turo.

What protection plan options are available on Turo in Emerald?

When booking a car in Australia, you’ll also choose between the Premier (if available), Standard, and Minimum protection plans. Each plan includes varying limits on financial responsibility for damage to a host’s vehicle. All trips include up to $20,000,000 (per event) in legal liability protection. Legal liability protection protects against damage to other people’s property and death or bodily injury (where the legal liability is not covered or capable of being covered by any statutory or compulsory scheme) as a result of an accident involving the vehicle. All protection is provided by Turo Travels Mutual.*

How do I get discounts on hire cars in Emerald?

On your Account page, make sure you’ve checked the box to receive email notifications, and enable push notifications from the Turo app in your phone settings — we’ll send you occasional promotions, discounts, and deals on car hire in Emerald!

Additionally, frequent travellers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totalling 10 days in a 90-day period!**

Are there discounts on weekly or monthly trips?

Yes, many Turo hosts offer discounted prices when you book trips lasting 3+, 7+, or 30+ days, so you can get the best deals and lowest rates possible by booking longer trips.

See more about promotions & discounts

How can I get unlimited kilometre car hire during my trip in Emerald?

Some hosts offer car hire with unlimited KMs; others set a daily distance limit. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total kilometres you’re allowed to drive under the heading “Distance included.” You can find cars offering unlimited mileage with every trip by using the “Unlimited distance” filter.

What payment methods does Turo accept?

Turo accepts most credit cards issued by major financial institutions, including American Express and Discover cards, as well as debit cards with a Visa or Mastercard logo that are linked to a checking account.

Apple Pay and Google Pay on mobile devices are also accepted, but Turo does not accept cash or checks as valid payment methods.

What is the cancellation policy for guests on Turo?

You can cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours before your trip starts, unless you opt to receive a non-refundable trip discount when you book. If you book a trip with less than 24 hours’ notice, you have one hour after booking to cancel free of charge. If you cancel after the free cancellation period ends, you will be charged a cancellation fee.

In the rare event a host cancels, you’ll be notified immediately so you can book another car, or we’ll help you find one. Your refund can be temporarily held to expedite rebooking, or the funds can be returned to your bank account — your choice.

What are the cleaning and safety policies on Turo?

Under the enhanced cleaning policy, hosts are required to clean and disinfect their vehicles thoroughly before every trip, so you can feel safe and comfortable behind the wheel. Turo hosts have access to training materials on enhanced safety measures and cleaning practices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 or other viruses.

Is Turo a rental car company?

No. Unlike rental car companies, Turo is a peer-to-peer car-sharing marketplace where you can book directly from trusted local car owners in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. Turo does not own any vehicles — Turo hosts share their own personal cars and set their own prices, discounts, vehicle availability, and delivery options.

Is there a fee to add additional drivers to my trip?

There is no fee or additional charge for adding a driver to your trip on Turo. Only the guest who booked the trip can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add any additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests in Australia can request to add a driver while a trip is in progress.

To speed up the process, have your additional driver create a Turo account and get approved to drive before you request to add them. All drivers must have a valid driver’s licence and meet the age requirements for the car you’ve booked. You can request to add drivers via the “Trips” tab in the Turo app without additional driver charges or extra costs.

How much does it cost to hire a car in Emerald?

While prices vary based on car type, rental duration, and season, Emerald offers options to fit all budgets. You’ll often find discounts for long-term rentals, especially if you’re hiring for a month or more.

Can I book a long-term car hire in Emerald?

You betcha! Long-term car hire in Emerald is a flexible, cost-effective way to keep yourself mobile without the commitment of ownership. Discounts are often available for bookings of a month or longer - perfect for business, family visits, or just making the most of your time in Central Queensland!

Can you hire a car on your Ps in Emerald? 

No, you can't hire a car on your Ps in Emerald. To hire a car on Turo, you must have a valid full licence - no provisional or conditional licences are accepted.

Do I need to be a certain age to hire a car in Emerald? 

The minimum age to rent a car in Emerald on Turo is 21 years of age, with all drivers under 25 years old being subjected to an extra cost of $15/day (a.k.a the Young Driver Surcharge). Plus, if you're looking to hire certain vehicle classes, you must be 25 or older to book a Deluxe Class vehicle, and 30 or older to book a Super Deluxe Class vehicle.

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in Emerald?

If you're a tourist or visiting from overseas, you're allowed to drive using your foreign licence for up to six months, as long as you meet these conditions:

- Maintain your status as a temporary overseas visitor.

- Hold a valid international licence.

- Have no history of driving disqualifications in QLD or any other location.

- Haven't faced licence suspension, cancellation, or withdrawal of driving privileges.

- Keep your foreign driver's or rider's licence on hand.

If your licence isn't in English, you'll also need an English translation or an International Driving Permit issued by the motoring association or embassy of the country where your licence was issued.