Turo
Hero background image

Car rental in San Mateo, CA

Discover the Turo car rental marketplace

Where
From
Until
Insurance icon

Extraordinary selection

From standard cars to supercars, find the perfect car for any occasion or budget

Insurance icon

Liability insurance included

Third-party liability insurance comes standard, and choose from a range of vehicle protection plans

Free cancellation

Easy airport pickup

You can skip the rental counter at 100+ airports across the US and Canada

Rental cars in San Mateo, CA

Average daily prices for a 3-day trip

San Mateo, EN

Car rental options in San Mateo

Nestled between San Francisco and Silicon Valley, San Mateo offers a perfect blend of coastal charm and urban sophistication. This vibrant city boasts lush parks, diverse dining scenes, and easy access to both bay and ocean beaches. Booking a rental car in San Mateo allows you to fully explore its unique attractions and venture beyond to nearby tech hubs, picturesque coastal towns, and stunning natural landscapes, making your visit truly memorable and flexible.

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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
Ella
Mitsubishi Mirage 2023

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

Ella
-
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.
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-
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
-

Discover San Mateo attractions and hidden gems

San Mateo's diverse attractions cater to all interests, from nature lovers to history buffs. With a rental car, you can easily explore the city's top spots like Central Park, the Japanese Garden, and CuriOdyssey science museum. Drive to nearby hiking trails, visit charming downtown shops, or venture to the famous Filoli estate. Having a car gives you the freedom to create your perfect San Mateo adventure.


Explore the tranquil Japanese Garden in Central Park

The Japanese Garden in Central Park is a serene oasis in the heart of San Mateo. This meticulously landscaped garden features traditional elements like koi ponds, stone lanterns, and a tea house. It's an ideal spot for relaxation and photography. The garden is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available in Central Park. Consider combining your visit with a picnic or a stroll through the park's other attractions for a full day of outdoor enjoyment.


Visit the historic Filoli estate and gardens

Just a short drive from San Mateo, the Filoli estate offers a glimpse into early 20th-century grandeur. This National Trust for Historic Preservation site features a Georgian revival mansion and 16 acres of stunning formal gardens. With your rental car, you can easily reach this hidden gem. The estate provides ample parking for visitors. After exploring Filoli, take a scenic drive through the surrounding hills for breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay Area.


Enjoy beachside bliss at Half Moon Bay State Beach

Half Moon Bay State Beach, a short drive from San Mateo, offers four miles of pristine sandy shores and picturesque bluffs. It's perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, or long walks along the Pacific. With your rental car, you can easily transport beach gear and explore multiple beach access points. The drive itself is scenic, winding through coastal hills. Don't miss the charming town of Half Moon Bay nearby, where you can sample fresh seafood and browse quaint shops.


Reaching San Mateo from nearby cities and airports


- By plane: Fly into San Francisco International Airport or San Jose International Airport
- By train: Take Caltrain from San Francisco or San Jose to San Mateo station
- By car: Drive via US-101 or I-280 from San Francisco or Silicon Valley cities


Smart tips for renting a car in San Mateo

When booking a rental car in San Mateo on Turo, consider your planned activities. For city driving, a compact car might suffice, while an SUV could be ideal for coastal adventures. Book early to secure the best options, especially during peak seasons. Look for extras like GPS navigation or a backup camera for easier driving. If you're planning trips to San Francisco, consider a vehicle with good fuel efficiency due to potential traffic. Always check the vehicle's features to ensure it meets your needs for a comfortable San Mateo experience.

Frequently asked questions in San Mateo, CA

What are some popular pickup locations for rental cars in San Mateo, and how do they compare in terms of convenience?

San Mateo offers several convenient pickup locations for rental cars. Downtown San Mateo is a popular choice, with many hosts on Turo offering vehicles near the city center. This location is ideal for guests who want easy access to local attractions and businesses. Another convenient option is the area around Highway 101, where you can find a variety of rental cars from hosts on Turo. This location is great for those planning to explore the wider Bay Area. For guests arriving by public transport, the San Mateo Caltrain station area is a convenient pickup spot, allowing seamless transitions from train to car. Each location has its own advantages, so guests can choose based on their specific needs and travel plans when booking on Turo.

What are some pleasant driving routes near San Mateo for enjoying the California scenery?

San Mateo offers several scenic driving routes that showcase California's natural beauty. The Pacific Coast Highway, accessible from San Mateo, provides breathtaking ocean views and coastal landscapes. Heading east, you can explore the rolling hills and vineyards of Napa Valley. For a serene forest experience, drive through the redwoods in nearby Santa Cruz Mountains. These routes offer diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to lush forests, perfect for enjoying in your rental car. Remember to check local weather conditions before embarking on your journey, as fog can sometimes affect visibility along coastal routes.

How can guests prepare for driving in San Mateo's various weather conditions throughout the year?

Preparing for San Mateo's weather conditions is crucial for a safe and enjoyable driving experience. In summer, the area experiences mild temperatures, ideal for convertible or luxury car rentals. Winter brings occasional rain, so consider renting an SUV or vehicle with good traction. Fog can occur year-round, especially near the coast, so familiarize yourself with fog light usage. Always check the weather forecast before your trip and adjust your driving accordingly. Pack layers of clothing for temperature changes, and keep sunglasses handy for bright California sun. Being prepared for various weather scenarios ensures a comfortable journey in your San Mateo rental car.

Are there any environmental zones or restrictions to be aware of when driving in San Mateo?

While San Mateo itself doesn't have specific environmental zones, it's part of the Bay Area, which has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives. Be aware of California's strict emissions standards when choosing your rental car. Many parking areas in San Mateo and surrounding cities offer preferential spots for electric and hybrid vehicles, making these options worth considering. Some nearby natural areas may have vehicle restrictions to protect sensitive ecosystems, so research your planned routes. Always follow posted signs regarding idling restrictions or sensitive habitat areas. By being mindful of these environmental considerations, you can enjoy San Mateo's beautiful surroundings responsibly in your chosen rental car.

What are the best practices for navigating San Mateo's streets and surrounding areas safely?

Navigating San Mateo safely requires attention to local traffic patterns and road rules. Familiarize yourself with the grid system of San Mateo's streets for easier orientation. Be cautious of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in downtown areas and near schools. When driving on highways around San Mateo, stay alert for sudden slowdowns due to traffic. Use navigation apps to avoid congestion, particularly during rush hours. Pay attention to parking regulations, as they can vary by area. If renting an SUV or larger vehicle, be mindful of narrow streets in some residential areas. Always obey speed limits and traffic signs, and remember that right turns on red are generally allowed unless otherwise posted.

Where can guests find reliable gas stations in and around San Mateo?

San Mateo and its surrounding areas offer numerous reliable gas stations to keep your rental car fueled. Major chains and local stations are conveniently located along main thoroughfares and near highway exits. El Camino Real, a major artery running through San Mateo, features several gas stations. For those exploring beyond the city, you'll find ample fueling options along Highway 101 and Interstate 280. Many stations in the area offer both regular and premium fuel options, catering to various vehicle requirements. Some locations also provide electric charging stations, perfect if you've opted for an electric rental. Remember to refuel before embarking on longer trips to nearby attractions or scenic drives.

What types of rental cars are recommended for exploring San Mateo and the Bay Area?

The ideal rental car for exploring San Mateo and the Bay Area depends on your specific plans. For city driving and easy parking, a compact or midsize car is practical and fuel-efficient. If you're planning to venture into the nearby hills or beaches, an SUV offers versatility and comfort. Luxury cars are perfect for those seeking a premium experience while cruising along scenic routes. Electric vehicles are increasingly popular in the eco-conscious Bay Area, with charging stations widely available. For larger groups or families, minivans provide ample space and comfort. Consider your itinerary, the number of passengers, and luggage requirements when selecting your San Mateo rental car to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable exploration of the area.

How should guests plan for tolls when driving on highways around San Mateo?

When planning for tolls around San Mateo, it's important to be prepared. Many Bay Area bridges, including those you might use to reach San Francisco or Oakland from San Mateo, have tolls. Most tolls are now collected electronically, so consider renting a car equipped with a toll transponder for convenience. If your rental doesn't include this, you can usually pay tolls online after your trip. Keep track of which toll roads or bridges you use. Some highways, like Interstate 680, have express lanes that require tolls during peak hours. Before your trip, research the routes you plan to take and budget accordingly for potential toll expenses. This preparation ensures a smooth journey in your San Mateo rental car without unexpected costs.

What are some key differences between driving in San Mateo's city streets versus nearby rural areas?

Driving in San Mateo's city streets differs significantly from nearby rural areas. In the city, expect more traffic, especially during rush hours, and be prepared for frequent stops at intersections. City driving requires vigilance for pedestrians, cyclists, and sudden lane changes. Parking can be more challenging, so consider a compact car for easier maneuvering. In contrast, rural areas around San Mateo offer more open roads and scenic views. However, these routes may have fewer streetlights and require extra caution at night. Rural drives might involve winding roads, especially in hilly areas, so an SUV could provide more stability. Always adjust your driving style to match the environment, whether navigating busy city streets or enjoying the tranquility of the countryside in your San Mateo rental car.

Are car rental options available near local landmarks in San Mateo?

Yes, you can find cars on Turo near local landmarks in San Mateo, making it easy to explore the area and nearby attractions.

Are car rental services available in San Mateo for travelers arriving on late flights?

Yes — many Turo hosts offer flexible pickup hours for late flights. It's best to confirm arrangements with your host after booking.

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