Car rental Chula Vista, CA
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Rental cars in Chula Vista, CA
Rent a car in Chula Vista on Turo
Looking for a car rental in Chula Vista? Whether you're cruising along San Diego Bay, shopping at the Chula Vista Center, or catching live music at the North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre, you can choose the perfect car for your plans on Turo. Pick from a roomy SUV for family beach days, a convertible for coastal drives, or a sleek sedan for zipping down Industrial Blvd in style.
Just south of San Diego, Chula Vista blends waterfront vibes with plenty of cultural flavor — and it's all within easy reach. Stroll the colorful streets of downtown Chula Vista, unwind in one of the city's breezy parks, or take a quick drive for tacos at Tacos El Gordo on Broadway. With a wide range of vehicle types, flexible pickup options, and zero traditional car rental desk drama, Turo makes it easy to hit the road your way.
Chula Vista, CA car rental: How it works
On Turo, renting a car in Chula Vista is easy. Browse cars online, choose your preferred pickup location, book your car, and get on the road sooner. With pickup locations all across Chula Vista, California and beyond, you'll be able to find the perfect car for whatever you have planned.
1. Find the perfect car
Enter a date and location in Chula Vista, CA (or beyond), filter to find the best car for you, and read reviews from previous renters.
2. Select a pickup location
Rent a car nearby or get one delivered to various destinations, including many airports, train stations, hotels, or maybe even your home.
3. Hit the road
Your host sends you pickup details, and you’re all set to hit the roads of Chula Vista, CA! If you have questions, you can easily chat with your host or contact support.
Rent a car and explore Chula Vista, CA
Things to do and places to see in Chula Vista, CA
Chula Vista has a coastal vibe with a splash of culture, nature, and SoCal sunshine. From bayside boardwalks to buzzing local eats, it's a city that invites you to slow down and explore. Cruise along the west side, grab tacos on Broadway, or head out to the coast for a golden-hour stroll — here are three must-visit spots that capture the heart of Chula Vista.
Rent the perfect carChula Vista Center
Located at the intersection of Broadway and H Street, Chula Vista Center is a convenient stop for shopping, dining, or catching a movie. Alongside big-name stores like Macy's and a Regal Rancho Del Rey cinema, you'll find casual eateries, seasonal events, and plenty of parking. It's especially handy if you need to pick up something before hitting the beach or if you're staying nearby and want a low-key afternoon outing.
San Diego Bay Wildlife Refuge
One of Chula Vista's best-kept secrets, this 12,445-acre stretch of protected wetlands is a peaceful spot to connect with nature. Just minutes from downtown, the refuge is home to hundreds of bird species, including more than 14 endangered or threatened species, and offers scenic trails along the bay. Come for a quiet sunrise walk, bring your binoculars for birdwatching, or unwind with a bayside picnic. Bonus: It's free to enter and makes for a lovely, lesser-known detour.
Living Coast Discovery Center
Tucked along the coastline near Bay Boulevard, the Living Coast Discovery Center is an interactive aquarium-meets-nature-center that's fun for all ages. See sea turtles, rays, and native wildlife up close, and explore walking trails with views across the bay. Whether you're traveling with kids or just a curious explorer yourself, it's a great place to learn about local marine ecosystems — and it's only a short drive from central Chula Vista.
Why rent a car on Turo?
Cheap Chula Vista, CA car rental
Find deals on all kinds of drives in Chula Vista, CA and throughout the US - from the everyday to the extraordinary. Rent the perfect vehicle for your budget.
Convenient Chula Vista, CA car rental pick up options
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 Chula Vista, CA, like airports, train stations, and hotels.
Relax with support & damage protection
24/7 support and roadside assistance mean help is just a call away, plus you can choose from a range of protection plans.
Top hosts in Chula Vista, CA
Vlad B.
SD Luxury Cars ..
Chula Vista car rentals for any occasion
Day trip car rental
Planning a full day at SeaWorld, lunch at Seaport Village, or a museum hop in Balboa Park? A standard SUV like a Toyota RAV4 is the perfect co-pilot — roomy enough for the crew, comfy enough for the ride, and spacious enough to haul back souvenirs, snacks or sandy beach towels. Plus, it's a quick, scenic drive from Chula Vista to downtown San Diego, so you can cruise in and out without the stress of transit schedules.
Wedding or formal event car rental
Have a wedding near the bay or a formal event at one of San Diego's more upscale venues? Pull up in something sleek, like a convertible Mustang, and turn heads before you even hit the valet. With the sparkling coast as your backdrop, your car becomes part of the occasion — perfect for photos, a stylish exit, or a little extra luxury for the night.
Week-long beach or desert adventure car rental
Spend the week bouncing between Coronado Beach, the coastline, and off-grid desert trails? Opt for a rugged SUV or capable pickup truck to handle all kinds of terrain — sun, sand, or canyon roads. With room for surfboards, hiking packs, and coolers, you'll have everything you need.
Turo vs. Traditional car rental
Turo
App-based experience
No waiting in line
Get the exact car you choose
Delivery options & thousands of pickup locations
Contactless pickup and dropoff available
Traditional car rental
Standard rental counter experience
Waiting in line
Get one type of car “or similar”
Pickup at retail locations
Requires in-person handoff
Rental car pickup locations throughout Chula Vista
Get your car delivered right to you or wherever you’re going in Chula Vista, CA, including Chula Vista, CA airport. Many hosts offer delivery to custom locations or popular points of interest, like airports, train stations, and hotels. Popular Chula Vista, CA pickup locations include:
San Diego International Airport
Flying into San Diego International Airport and want to skip the usual airport car rental counter shuffle? Use the Turo app to arrange to meet your host at a nearby location so you can bypass the long lines and jump into your rental car without any stress. From there, hop on the I-5 or I-805 and you'll be in Chula Vista in about 20 minutes, depending on traffic. It's a smooth option for visitors wanting to dive into the sunshine and beaches without the rental car chaos.
Westfield Plaza Bonita
You're sure to feel bonita with a convenient pickup right off the I-805. Westfield Plaza Bonita is more than just a shopping mall, it's a smart central pickup spot with plenty of parking and quick access to the rest of Chula Vista. Grab your rental, browse for last-minute travel essentials or new outfits, and swing by the food court for a quick bite at Applebee's. Whether you're headed to the marina, local trails or south towards Eastlake, this location puts you right in the middle of it all.
Downtown Chula Vista
For a more local launch point, arrange to meet your host in downtown Chula Vista, near Broadway or 3rd Avenue. You'll be within walking distance of independent shops, beloved taquerias like Taqueria Revolucion, and some of the best thrift spots in the region. It's an ideal choice if you're staying nearby or want to roll straight into exploring west side neighborhoods, the bayfront, or the Chula Vista Center right after grabbing the keys to your rental car.
Airport pickup made easy
Next time you fly, don’t wait in line and fill out forms — pick your car up at hundreds of popular airports.
Convenient pickup & return
Rather than hustling at the busy terminal curbside, take your time picking up the car at approved parking lots or garages. Check in, load up your luggage, and get comfortable with the car without a big rush.
No lines, no paperwork
Skip the rental car counter at hundreds of popular airports without waiting in line or filling out paperwork. Find and pick up the car with the app and hit the road in no time.
Free cancellation
Cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your trip starts, unless you opt to receive a non-refundable trip discount when you book. Because life happens and it helps to be flexible when it does.
Pickup near or at Airports
Car rental locations near Chula Vista, CA
Top tips for renting a car in Chula Vista
With sunny weather, coastal highways, and plenty of room to explore, having your own wheels in Chula Vista is more than convenient — it's essential. Whether you're heading to the beach, the mountains, or down to the border, here are a few things you need to know before you hit the road in Chula Vista.
What are the road rules and driving conditions in Chula Vista?
Speed limits in Chula Vista typically hover around 25–35 miles per hour (mph) in residential and downtown areas, while highways like the I-5, I-805, and CA-54 have limits around 55–65 mph. Rush hour can get congested near freeway junctions, so plan for some extra time during weekday mornings and late afternoons.
The weather is usually sunny and dry, but that also means road glare and slick oil build-up (from the oils and dust that have settled on the road) after rare rain showers — especially in more coastal or hilly areas. Watch out for fast-moving fog early in the morning, particularly if you're driving near Otay Lakes, the backcountry, or toward the mountains. And while you're not likely to spot large wildlife in the city, keep an eye out for low-flying seabirds near the coast, the occasional stray coyote around nature reserves, or even rabbits darting across more rural roads at dawn and dusk.
Take note that California requires hands-free phone use while driving, so make sure your GPS is mounted, not handheld. And if you're thinking about venturing south of the border into Mexico, double-check your trip details — vehicles rented on Turo can’t cross the US-Mexico border.
What is parking like in Chula Vista?
Compared to central San Diego, parking in Chula Vista is refreshingly easy — but it's still smart to stay alert. Downtown spots and popular areas like Chula Vista Center can fill up fast, especially on weekends or during events. Streets like Third Avenue and Davidson Street tend to have plenty of public parking options, while curbside spaces along F Street or Garrett Avenue are usually available if you're willing to walk a block or two.
Many lots offer free or low-cost parking, but side streets like L Street or Moss Street may have time limits or permit-only zones — always double-check the signage. If you're heading to the Marina or Bayside Park, you'll find well-marked public lots nearby. With a bit of planning, you’ll be parked and exploring in no time.
Are there toll roads in Chula Vista?
Yes. While most highways are free to use, there’s one toll road to know about: the South Bay Expressway (SR-125). This 10-mile stretch runs from SR-11 and SR-905 up to SR-54 and charges a toll to all drivers.
Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Chula Vista?
No need to stress about your fuel gauge — Chula Vista makes it easy to stay charged up and topped up. You'll find plenty of gas stations along major thoroughfares like Broadway, H Street, and East Palomar Street, so pit stops are never far.
Driving electric? Check out locations along 3rd Avenue or Naples Street, or head to the Chula Vista Center, Otay Ranch Town Center, or Broadway Plaza for a quick charge. Just make sure to fill up before you head further out to areas like Otay Lakes, or Proctor Valley since stations get fewer and farther in between.
Do I need to rent a car in Chula Vista?
If you're after real flexibility — beach hopping, chasing tacos in National City, or heading out for a sunrise paddle at Lower Otay Lake — having a car makes a world of difference. Whether you rent a sporty compact to zip around town in or a pickup truck to haul gear for an outdoor adventure, the freedom to explore on your own terms is what truly makes a SoCal trip memorable.
Frequently asked questions about Chula Vista car rentals
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
What documents and paperwork do you need to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo, you must create a Turo account, have a valid driver’s license, get approved to drive on Turo, and be 18 years old or older in the US, 21 years old or older in Australia, or 23 years old or older in Canada.
In the UK, you must be 21 years old or older and have held a UK or EU license for at least one year, or another driver’s license for at least two years. In France you must be 18 years old or older and have held a driver’s license for at least 2 years, longer for certain makes and models of vehicles.
When you’re booking your first trip, you’ll go through a quick approval process by entering your driver’s license and some other information. In most cases, you’ll get approved immediately, and you’ll be set for all future road trips, day trips, and business trips!
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
What kind of license do I need to rent a car on Turo?
Turo accepts valid licenses (not expired, suspended, or revoked) that allow for full driving privileges; this includes driver’s licenses issued outside of the US. Licenses that Turo doesn’t accept in the US include any that have expired, have been altered, are conditional, probational, provisional, or restricted. Learner’s permit/instruction permits are not accepted.
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
Do I need to be a certain age to rent a car on Turo?
To rent a car on Turo in the US, you must be 18 years old or older.
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
How does car rental insurance work on Turo?
No, you don’t need personal insurance coverage to rent a car on Turo.
In the US, any personal insurance you may have that covers damage to the host’s vehicle would kick in before your Turo protection plan. When booking a car in the US, you’ll choose between three protection plans — Premier (eligibility requirements apply), Standard, or Minimum — to get the level of protection that’s right for you. On each trip, you’re covered with third-party automobile liability insurance provided under a policy issued to Turo by Travelers Excess and Surplus Lines Company.*
In New York state, you’ll also choose between Premier (if available), Standard, or Minimum. With each plan, you’re covered with liability insurance of $1,250,000.* Protection plans for New York trips also include access to roadside assistance, priority phone support, and 24/7 customer assistance.
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
Can I get car rental discounts on Turo?
You can get discounts and low cost car rental on Turo.
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 promo codes, discounts, and deals.
Additionally, frequent travelers on Turo can get rewarded with the loyalty bonus — earn a promo code for one bonus day when you take trips totaling 10 days in a 90-day period.
Learn how the loyalty bonus worksIs there long term car rental on Turo?
Is there long term car rental on Turo?
Yes there is - whether you want to rent a car for three days, three months, or even longer, you can on Turo. You’ll find discounted prices on bookings 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 & discountsIs there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Is there unlimited mileage car rental on Turo?
Some hosts offer unlimited distance for a trip; others set a daily distance limit — you’ll need to check on each rental car individually to see if this service is provided. On the vehicle pages, you’ll see the total miles or 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.
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Can other people drive the car that I rented?
Yes, multiple guests can drive the car you rent on Turo, as long as they are all approved to drive. The primary driver (whoever rented the car) can add additional drivers with no fees or additional charges. Only the primary driver can request to add drivers; Turo hosts cannot do it for you. We encourage you to request to add additional drivers before your trip starts, though guests 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 license 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 rent a car in Chula Vista?
How much does it cost to rent a car in Chula Vista?
The cost of car rental in Chula Vista can vary depending on car type, booking length, extras, and delivery. For cheap car rental in Chula Vista, look out for discounts on longer-duration bookings and early bookings.
What rental car types are there in Chula Vista?
What rental car types are there in Chula Vista?
Whether you're commuting through the city, heading to the beach, or planning an interstate adventure, there's a wide range of vehicles to choose from on Turo that will suit any itinerary. Here are some popular car rental types in the area:
- Economy and compact cars: Think Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, or Kia Rio. Great for navigating local streets like Broadway or H Street, these fuel-efficient cars are ideal for errands, quick trips, and everyday exploring.
- Midsize and premium cars: Vehicles like the Hyundai Sonata, Chevrolet Malibu, or Audi A4 offer a nice balance of comfort and style — perfect for date nights, business outings, or cruising through the Eastlake or Otay Ranch neighborhoods.
- SUV rentals: Choose from options like the Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester, or Toyota Highlander. Ideal for beach days at Silver Strand, hiking around Otay Lakes, or loading up for a weekend getaway up the coast.
- Pickup trucks: A Ford F-150, Toyota Tacoma, or Chevy Silverado are great for hauling gear, moving houses, or exploring backroads near Jamul or the Proctor Valley area.
- Minivans and cargo vans: Traveling with a full crew? A Dodge Grand Caravan, Honda Odyssey, or Chrysler Pacifica makes room for kids, coolers, and strollers. Need more cargo space? Book a van with extra room for event setups or outdoor gear.
- Sports and performance cars: Book a Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger, or other high-performance ride for scenic drives along the San Diego Bay or cruising the coast with the top down.
- Electric and hybrid vehicles: Go green with a Toyota Prius, Tesla Model 3, or Chevy Bolt. With EV chargers located near shopping centers like Otay Ranch Town Center, it's easy to stay topped up while you explore.
* 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 that is included in protection plans, 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.