Yes, you can rent a car for a one-way trip from Los Angeles to Santa Monica. Many major companies offer this service, but there are specific requirements, especially for foreign renters.
Notes: Renters with a non-U.S. driver's license (written in Roman alphabet) may be required to present a valid passport or other government-issued ID as a second form of identification.
Notes: Renters who have indicated a country of residence outside of the United States or Canada will also be required to present a return airline ticket.
One-way rentals typically includes a drop-off fee, depending on the company and distance. Below are approximate rates for different vehicle types:
Starting from
US$ 39/dayStarting from
US$ 39/day| Vehicle Types | Daily Rate(One-way Fee Included) | One-way Fee | Total(3-day Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small | US$ 39-US$ 83 | US$ 0 | US$ 115-US$ 161 | Solo travelers, couples |
| Medium | US$ 42-US$ 83 | US$ 0 | US$ 161 | Small families, light luggage |
| Large | US$ 42-US$ 102 | US$ 0 | US$ 125-US$ 260 | Families, comfort seeker |
| SUV | US$ 39-US$ 86 | US$ 0 | US$ 117-US$ 327 | Large groups, long drivers |
| Premium | US$ 67 | US$ 0 | US$ 201 | Families, comfort seeker |
| Van | US$ 140-US$ 146 | US$ 0 | US$ 319-US$ 420 | Large families, groups |
Rental car insurance is essential for peace of mind on your journey. Counter rates can be expensive, often adding $20-40 per day to your rental cost.
Car rental prices fluctuate based on demand and availability. Booking in advance typically secures better rates, especially during peak travel seasons.
Refuel the car before returning it to avoid extra charges from the rental company.
Keep the last fuel receipt as proof of refueling.
Use the same type of fuel as specified in the rental agreement.
The average fuel cost in Santa Monica is approximately $5.10 per gallon.
Maintain a steady speed to improve fuel efficiency.
Ensure tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure.
Minimize use of air conditioning when possible.
Parking in Los Angeles can range from $1 to $4 per hour.
Look for public parking structures for cheaper rates.
Avoid parking in restricted zones to prevent fines.
Santa Monica offers metered street parking at $2 per hour.
Public parking garages provide the first 90 minutes free.
Use parking apps to locate available spots near your destination.
SpotHero: Reserve parking in advance.
ParkMobile: Pay for metered parking through the app.
BestParking: Compare parking rates and locations.
Explore the stars and take in panoramic city views.
Experience luxury shopping and iconic views.
Relax on pristine beaches and enjoy coastal dining.
Dive into creative art scenes, murals, and dining spots.
Plan Vehicle Choice Carefully: Choose a vehicle that suits your travel group size and luggage needs.
Check for Navigation Tools: Ensure your rental car has GPS or bring your own device.
Time Your Trip Well: Avoid peak traffic hours for a more relaxed drive.
Know Fuel Policies: Understand how refueling works on one-way rentals.
Inspect the Car: Thoroughly check the car for damages before starting your trip.
Utilize Add-Ons Smartly: Consider including insurance or add-ons to enhance your rental experience.
Explore top-rated companies offering one-way rental services between Los Angeles and Santa Monica. Choose based on fees, fleet, and coverage.
| Company | One-Way Fee | Fleet Variety | Location Coverage | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hertz | $$ | Excellent | Wide | |
| Enterprise | $ | Good | Comprehensive | |
| Avis | $$ | Very Good | Good | |
| Alamo | $ | Good | Decent |
Access to 110,000+ locations worldwide with 1,000+ suppliers for the best rates
200+ countries and regions
Compare across providers
Through phone, online chat & Whatsapp
One-Dollar Freeze & Price Drop Protector
The rental vehicle area is accessible near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) at the centralized rental facility.
Most rental centers operate from 6 AM to 11 PM. Check specific provider timings beforehand.
Frequent buses connect the terminal to the rental center departing approximately every 10 minutes.
Clear signage directs to the drop-off area; staff are available for prompt vehicle inspections.
Make reservations in advance for better deals and ensure the availability of your desired vehicle type.
Find the best rates and exclusive features with QEEQ
