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Car rental in Dana Point, CA

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Rental cars in Dana Point, CA

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

Dana Point, EN

Car rental options in Dana Point

Dana Point, a picturesque coastal gem in Southern California, offers a perfect blend of sun-soaked beaches, stunning cliffs, and charming harbor views. This serene oceanfront city boasts a laid-back atmosphere and numerous outdoor activities. Booking a rental car in Dana Point allows visitors to fully explore its scenic beauty, from the iconic Lantern District to the nearby marine reserves, ensuring a memorable and flexible coastal getaway.

Recent reviews

Renault TWINGO II 2014

Eric and Valerie have made it impossible for me to ever rent from one of the big international car rental companies again. This was my third rental with them and they are everything the big guys are not. They are friendly, efficient, customer focused are most importantly really easy to deal with. Their cars are great as well.

Sally
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Kia K5 2021

The host, the car, and the whole Turo experience was 10/10. The price was fantastic and the whole experience was seamless. We had weird hours we wanted to leave and return the car that would not have worked with a car rental agency, but Angel and Turo made the whole process easy and seamless. I’m a bigger guy so I was worried about how comfortable the car would be and it was perfect. The great ride made our whole vacation possible and comfortable. I really appreciated the vehicles safety features too!

Daniel Alexander
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Cary F.
Honda Civic 2012

First, I contemplated leaving a 4 star review for a few reasons. However, the prompt response to the issue with the original vehicle reserved, partly due to luck that someone happened to be onsite with the car, and the flexibility with returning the vehicle without requiring washing and vacuuming is deserving of some grace. The price for 5 day/4 night rental was fantastic, around $150 total. I certainly didn't expect a car in pristine shape for the cost. This car is a part of a Turo "rental company" fleet. It seems like a company that buys cheap, used cars to rent out. There are 12-15 cars parked behind a strip mall 8-10ish minutes from the airport in an area I was glad we were picking up and dropping off midday rather than the evening. The hybrid we originally reserved had stained seats and a lot of cosmetic wear. One tire looked like it was on a spare wheel and didn't have a lot of life left, honestly. A lot of the roads in San Diego aren't exactly in great shape, I was concerned about getting a flat. When we turned the car on to leave we immediately got check engine lights and a "pull over immediately" message. Fortunately, someone with the "rental company" was on site and qas able to quickly switched cars for us. It wasn't a hybrid, though. We didn't plan on a lot of driving, but originally opted for a hybrid to save money since we had two days of freeway driving. We definitely spent more on gas then originally planned. If there wasn't someone available onsite to help, it could have been a much longer ordeal which is a terrible way to start a vacation. Communication day of pick up felt slow with the owner. I didn't think to look back to the 2 month old message about how to find the car. I received a message from Turo saying we'd be sent details the day before the trip. I never got that confirmation text or measage the day before or day of pick up from the actual rental owner. When I first reached out to the rental company through the turo app to find the car at pick up time, I didn't get a response. I finally found a way to text someone about 20 minutes later. We did get a pretty quick response that way, but it's frustrating to be in a random parking lot messaging through an app and not get a response. The Honda interior is definitely cleaner than the hybrid we reserved, but the exterior, not so much. Its been side swiped and has a lot of sun damage. The TPMS light was on the whole time, but the actual tire pressure was fine. There was also a rattle and grinding noise when accelerating from a stop or on a hill, but it didn't cause an issue. The car drives fine for a 14-15 year old car, it's just a little noisy and you feel all the bumps on the road. I understand with the cheaper cost of renting through Turo amd choosing a 12-15 year old car, I'm not getting a newer car like I would with a standard rental company or paying more for a newer car. That said, with my last few Turo rentals, it feels a lot of these Turo "rental companies" aren't checking their cars or doing much more than standard maintenance as frequently as they should when they have over 150,000 miles on them. The confirmation message also suggested the cars are kept in great shape. These cars were not in great shape by any stretch of the imagination. No one wants to be on vacation and have their car break down or even be worried that the car they're driving is gonna get a flat or break down.

Cary F.
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Mireille
Mitsubishi Mirage G4 2023

I love the rental cars from Mohammed. He and his staff is friendly and helpful. The cars are small and good at gas. I would suggest anyone to rent a car with Mohammed.

Mireille
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Hyundai Accent 2017

Rented this last minute because my Mom didn't tell me until the day before my trip that she had no car. Was pretty easy for the most part. Finding the shuttle at the airport for the car rental area, was a little difficult for me. But you can always ask someone at the airport. Then I followed Turo given directions to the car. It's outside of the rental area but still easy to find because the lot is literally labeled "Turo." As for the car, I DID NOT MIND these "problems" with the car at all, but you should be informed that the car: Cons - Smelled INTENSELY LIKE WEED. I tried to spray it with multiple Febreze, etc. It helped but it still stinks a bit. - The car door lock was extremely finicky, you must PRESS AND HOLD the button it seems. - Crumbs in the backseat (no big deal) - Not sure but seems like occasional light scraping sound sometimes when driving around on normal road. - Not a problem per se, but just know the car has quite a bit of scratches compared to other Turo rentals. Just be sure to document as much as you can. Pros - Good Value for the price - ICE COLD A/C. (Although I visited in winter, so idk how it holds up to the Vegas heat, but again better than my childhood cars with zero A/C) - Pretty quiet car overall (I mention the scrape for the owner to consider getting it checked out, but nothing to make you feel embarrassed while driving.) Overall, I grew up poor, and this car was much better than most of the ones of my childhood, so I didn't mind at all. Just tried my best to document them that's all. But anyone renting who these things might bother should be aware of it. Anyways, thank you so much Nick!!! I would definitely rent again!

Natalie
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Joseph
Audi S3 2015

The host was excellent throughout the whole process. Communication was very good, he was friendly and easy to deal with, and he made the whole car rental process simple and stress-free. Everything was straightforward from start to finish, and I would definitely rent from him again.

Joseph
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Ella
Mitsubishi Mirage 2023

Easy pickup and drop off, saved us when the car rental companies ran out of cars at the airport.

Ella
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Jennifer M.
Subaru Outback 2013

Andre was great, the car was somewhat still dirty, dust, dirt, what appeared to be cigarette ashes, animal hair, sticky spills around the cup holders in the center console and the door panels. Crumbs and dust/dirt left in the door handles and cubby's. In the center console cup holders and cubbys. On the top of the dashboard, around the steering column and gauges. Sticky dusty windows and stereo buttons. Rear view mirror had sticky smudges on it. All the windows inside were dusty and dirty with smudges and idk what really.. the car had a bad smell of animals like dogs, and faint cigarette smell.. however as I got further into my trip I got used to it and wasn't bothered by it anymore. A lot of these issues honestly didn't bother me very much. I was more worried of being blamed for them when I returned the car. Unfortunately I was put behind schedule due to a passenger side headlight and passenger side tail light being burned out. However upon informing andre, he was very quick with a solution to take the car to valvoline where they were able to repair the lights before I left for my trip. If I wasn't already running late It wouldn't of bothered me. Andre was also very quick to reimburse me the whole price of the repairs immediately upon me sending him the receipt of the work.. I very much appreciated that! I also appreciate that instead of canceling my trip Andre worked out a way to have the lights fixed with no trouble of my own. He was always quick to respond to all of my very long messages full of questions. This is my first time using turo and I did not know the ins and outs of the rental process. He was able to guide me threw every step all while being polite and keeping his patience with me! Hah. I ended up running behind schedule on my way back as well and was surprised how simple and easy it was to change the return time from noon to after 9 p.m. all without adding any fees to my bill! That was very helpful of andre to allow me to do. I also ended up being a little passed my return time due to vacuuming the car and dusting everything to my best ability. So that andre wouldn't have to deal with someone else's mess and the next person who rents the vehicle will not have to worry about it either. I had no issues with doing that for him after he was so helpful with me! The vehicle was a little different then what im used to. But in no time I settled in with the car and had a very enjoyable trip! I would forsure rent another vehicle from andre in the future due to how well he accommodated me on this trip. Even tho the car had the mess, that was not andre, But left over from previous renters. He even made sure to have a snow brush and ice scraper in the car for me. But unfortunately the previous renters also took that with them. Im sure there will be a new one for the next person who rents the car because thats how much andre cares about his customers !! 5 stars for andre !!! Whoever returned his vehicle like that should be ashamed and think about how it would feel if someone treated your things the same way! Once again THANK YOU andre! I will reach out to you next time I need to rent a car.. I appreciate all your help thru the process! I appreciate your professionalism and quick responses to all my questions and thank you for making sure the vehicle was 100% good to go for me before I left and wouldn't of been able to fix it. 5 of 5 stars for andre !!

Jennifer M.
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Azeema
Toyota Yaris 2012

My credit card wasn’t working for some odd reason and rental companies wouldn’t let me rent a car so I booked this Turo last minute and it was a reasonable price for five days. I will do it again when I come back to Vancouver in August.

Azeema
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Chevrolet Cruze Limited 2016

Excellent 1st experience using Turo. The host was very responsive and timely. The vehicle was in great condition and rode very well. The price was a good deal and would definitely use this again as opposed to a major car rental facility. It was a simple process overall and very straightforward.

Jaretta
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Trieu-Chung
Honda Civic 2025

The host, Tadeh was exceptional. The very best in customer service. I had the best experience with renting from Tadeh. Everything was so easy; Tadeh was super accommodating, very kind, he went way above and beyond what I reasonably expected. Tadeh is a thousand times better than AVIS, HERTZ, Enterprise, Thrifty, Budget, Dollar, and all the major car rental. Tadeh gave me the best deal; the major car rentals do not come close; I saved a lot of money. The car was great, very good on the gas mileage; and very clean. Tadeh made sure pick-up location was very convenient for me, Tadeh drove the car to where I was; it’s the best. Tadeh also picked up the car when I was done and again made sure it was convenient for me. I am very grateful for this. Once I return from my deployment, absolutely renting from Tadeh again; will be telling all my friends and colleagues. This is just amazing customer service. I am very appreciative for everything. THANK YOU

Trieu-Chung
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Toyota Camry 2018

Kiara had great communication throughout the rental process , the car was amazing , clean and comfortable. Rental was a great price as well. I'll be happy to rent from Kiara again in the future.

Timothy
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Jose
Ford Fusion 2016

Good Morning 🌞 Yall! This Car was Amazing! I was able to go see my older Son's College Graduation during the week. The Car rental process was amazing and an easy process. I would definitely rent this Car again!!

Jose
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Toyota Corolla Hybrid 2026

“10/10 experience. I rented the car for a week and the total came out to around $400, which was an amazing price for a brand new 2026 vehicle. The entire process was incredibly easy from start to finish. Pickup and drop-off were smooth and convenient, and I loved that I didn’t have to physically meet or talk to anyone. The key was waiting in a lockbox by the window, which honestly made the experience even better for me. The car itself was spotless, smelled clean, and drove perfectly. It was also amazing on gas — I drove all the way through Saturday and the tank was only halfway. The host responded quickly to messages and was super helpful the entire time. Overall, this was one of the easiest and best rental experiences I’ve had. I would absolutely rent from them again and honestly would choose this over Enterprise or Hertz any day

julissa
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Stuart
Honda Insight 2020

Fandi and our cohost provided excellent communication throughout the process. Our car, 2020 Honda Insight was clean and in good working order. Performance was good around the hills and mountains in the greater San Francisco area. The drop off at the San Jose airport was excellent. Why go to the “normal” car rental companies!

Stuart
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Taylor
Toyota Yaris 2014

Car was a great price, great driving, amazinggg gas mileage. Would book again! The host was very communicative in helping figure out Turo for the first time as well. Also extremely easy pick up and drop off at the airport! Way better than rental cars!

Taylor
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Discover Dana Point attractions and hidden gems

Dana Point's diverse attractions cater to all interests, from nature enthusiasts to history buffs. A rental car provides the freedom to explore the city's iconic landmarks, pristine beaches, and scenic coastal drives at your own pace. Uncover hidden coves, visit world-class surf spots, or embark on a whale-watching adventure from the harbor. With a rental car, you can easily access nearby attractions and make the most of your Dana Point experience.


Soak up the sun at Salt Creek Beach Park

Salt Creek Beach Park is a must-visit destination for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This pristine stretch of coastline offers crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and excellent surfing conditions. The park features scenic bluffs, picnic areas, and walking trails with breathtaking ocean views. Parking is available at the top of the bluff, with a convenient tram service to the beach below. Drive your rental car along Pacific Coast Highway to reach this coastal gem, taking in the stunning ocean vistas along the way.


Explore marine life at the Ocean Institute

The Ocean Institute, located in Dana Point Harbor, is a fascinating marine education center that offers hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages. Discover interactive exhibits, touch tanks, and educational programs that showcase the diverse marine life of the California coast. The institute also features historic tall ships and whale watching excursions. Ample parking is available at the harbor, making it easy to access with your rental car. Consider combining your visit with a stroll around the charming Dana Point Harbor area.


Hike the scenic Bluff Top Trail

The Bluff Top Trail offers a stunning coastal walk with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Dana Point Harbor. This easy, mile-long trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a sunset hike. Along the path, you'll find informative plaques detailing the area's rich history and diverse flora and fauna. Parking is available at several access points along the trail, including Strand Beach parking lot and the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center. Combine your hike with a visit to nearby attractions for a full day of exploration.


Getting to Dana Point by various transportation methods


- By plane: Fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County or Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- By train: Take the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner to San Juan Capistrano station
- By car: Drive along Interstate 5 or Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) for scenic coastal views


Smart tips for renting a car in Dana Point

When booking a rental car in Dana Point, consider reserving early on Turo for the best selection. Choose a vehicle that suits your planned activities, whether it's a convertible for coastal drives or an SUV for beach trips. Look for extras like a backup camera or bike rack to enhance your experience. Remember to factor in parking availability at popular attractions and consider a compact car for easier maneuverability in busy areas. Opt for a vehicle with good fuel efficiency to make the most of your coastal adventures.

Frequently asked questions in Dana Point, CA

What are some popular pickup locations for rental cars in Dana Point, and how do they cater to different travel needs?

Dana Point offers several convenient pickup locations for rental cars, catering to various travel needs. The Dana Point Harbor area is a popular spot, ideal for guests looking to explore the coastal attractions. Here, you can find hosts on Turo offering a range of vehicles, from luxury cars perfect for cruising along the Pacific Coast Highway to spacious SUVs suitable for family outings to nearby beaches. Another common pickup point is near the Monarch Beach Resort, where guests can access rental cars that complement their upscale vacation experience. For those seeking more budget-friendly options, the area around Del Prado Avenue in the heart of Dana Point provides a diverse selection of rental cars from hosts on Turo, including compact vehicles ideal for navigating the city's streets and exploring nearby attractions like the Ocean Institute or Doheny State Beach.

What are some pleasant driving routes near Dana Point for exploring the California coastline?

Dana Point offers several scenic driving routes along the California coastline. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is a must-drive, offering breathtaking ocean views as you cruise north or south. Head south on PCH to explore Laguna Beach's artistic charm and pristine beaches. For a more inland experience, take Ortega Highway (Route 74) eastward into the Santa Ana Mountains, where you'll encounter winding roads and panoramic vistas. Another option is to drive north on PCH towards Newport Beach and Huntington Beach, enjoying the iconic surf spots and beach towns along the way. These routes showcase the diverse beauty of Orange County's coastline and allow you to fully appreciate the freedom of having a rental car in Dana Point.

How can visitors find convenient parking facilities in Dana Point's popular areas?

Dana Point offers various parking options for visitors exploring its popular areas. The harbor area provides ample parking, with several lots available near Dana Point Harbor Drive. For beach access, Doheny State Beach has a large parking lot, though it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Street parking is available in many areas, but be sure to check posted signs for any restrictions or time limits. Some restaurants and shops in the Lantern District offer dedicated parking for patrons. When visiting Salt Creek Beach or the Ritz-Carlton area, there's a pay parking lot with easy beach access. Having a rental car in Dana Point allows for flexibility in exploring these areas, but it's wise to arrive early at popular spots, especially during summer weekends.

Which car types are recommended for navigating Dana Point's scenic roads and coastal terrain?

For navigating Dana Point's scenic roads and coastal terrain, a variety of car types can enhance your experience. A convertible is ideal for soaking in the California sunshine and ocean breezes along the Pacific Coast Highway. An SUV offers versatility, perfect for those planning to visit nearby beaches or venture into the hills for hiking. For couples or solo travelers, a compact car works well for easy maneuvering through Dana Point's streets and finding parking in busier areas. Luxury car enthusiasts might appreciate a high-end vehicle to match the upscale atmosphere of some Dana Point neighborhoods. Whatever your choice, ensure it has good air conditioning for comfortable driving in the warm Southern California climate.

Where are the nearest gas stations located for refueling during a trip around Dana Point?

Dana Point and its surrounding areas offer several convenient options for refueling your rental car. In the heart of Dana Point, you'll find gas stations along Pacific Coast Highway, making it easy to fill up while exploring the coastal route. There are also stations near the intersection of Doheny Park Road and Victoria Boulevard, convenient for those heading inland. If you're driving towards San Juan Capistrano, you'll find additional options along Camino Capistrano. For those venturing south towards San Clemente, gas stations are available along El Camino Real. Having a rental car in Dana Point provides the flexibility to explore freely, and with these easily accessible gas stations, you can keep your adventures going without worrying about running low on fuel.

What advice can you offer for driving safely in Dana Point during peak traffic hours?

When driving in Dana Point during peak traffic hours, patience and alertness are key. Mornings and late afternoons typically see increased traffic, especially along Pacific Coast Highway and major intersections. Plan extra time for your journeys and consider using navigation apps to find alternative routes. Be particularly cautious around popular areas like Dana Point Harbor and Doheny State Beach, where pedestrian activity is high. Always yield to pedestrians and be aware of cyclists sharing the road, especially on scenic routes. During summer months, expect more congestion due to increased tourism. If possible, try to avoid peak hours by planning your trips earlier or later in the day. Having a rental car in Dana Point offers great freedom, but remember to stay focused and avoid distractions while driving to ensure a safe experience for everyone.

Are there any toll roads to be aware of when traveling in and around Dana Point?

When traveling in and around Dana Point, it's important to be aware of nearby toll roads. The San Joaquin Hills Toll Road (State Route 73) is the closest, running from Newport Beach to San Juan Capistrano. If you're planning trips to Irvine or further north, you might encounter the Eastern Toll Road (State Route 241) or the Foothill Toll Road (State Route 241). These roads often offer faster routes to inland destinations but require payment. Most toll roads in the area use electronic tolling, so there's no cash option available. If you're using a rental car in Dana Point, it's advisable to research payment methods in advance, such as one-time payments online or temporary transponder options for visitors. Being prepared for these toll roads can help you navigate the area more efficiently and avoid unexpected fees.

What are some key differences between driving in Dana Point's coastal areas versus inland routes?

Driving in Dana Point's coastal areas differs significantly from inland routes. Coastal roads, like the Pacific Coast Highway, offer stunning ocean views but can be busier with tourist traffic and have more curves. These routes often have lower speed limits and require more attention due to pedestrians and cyclists. Inland routes, such as those leading to San Juan Capistrano or Laguna Niguel, tend to be wider and straighter, allowing for easier navigation and higher speeds. Coastal areas may experience fog, especially in the mornings, while inland routes are typically clearer but can be hotter. Parking is often more challenging near the coast, particularly during peak seasons. Having a rental car in Dana Point allows you to experience both types of driving, each offering its unique charms and challenges.

How should drivers prepare for various weather conditions when renting a car in Dana Point?

When renting a car in Dana Point, it's important to prepare for the area's generally mild but variable weather conditions. While sunny days are common, coastal fog can roll in quickly, especially in the mornings. Ensure your rental car's lights and windshield wipers are in good working order. During the rare rainy days, be extra cautious as roads can become slippery due to oil buildup. Air conditioning is a must for comfortable driving in the warm Southern California climate, particularly if you plan to venture inland where temperatures can be higher. It's also wise to keep sunglasses handy for bright, sunny days. Having a rental car in Dana Point allows you to adapt to changing weather conditions easily, ensuring a comfortable and safe driving experience throughout your visit.

What can I do to prevent unexpected fees when renting a car in Dana Point?

To prevent unexpected fees, be sure to return the car on time per Turo policy. All applicable fees are clearly displayed in the Turo app.

Are weekend car rentals typically pricier than weekday rentals in Dana Point?

Rates can vary between weekdays and weekends in Dana Point. Look out for savings on longer bookings and try adjusting your trip dates to find the best options for your schedule.

Are rental rates more affordable outside of Dana Point compared to on-site options?

Rates can vary depending on location. You can compare prices for cars near Dana Point or choose to have a car delivered directly to your accommodation — whichever works best for your trip.

Is it possible to pick up a rental car in Dana Point and return it in another location?

Some hosts offer one-way trips as an Extra. When you search on Turo, you can filter for one-way trips to see what’s available in your area.

  1. * Est. daily price. Search for up to date price information.