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Finding a rental car in Huntington Beach is easier with Road Genius. Compare prices of vehicles from dozens of brands around California with no reservation fees. Pick up a compact, SUV or convertible in town or at nearby John Wayne Airport or Long Beach Airport and hit the Pacific Coast Highway for access to Surf City's beaches, Disneyland and the rest of Orange County.
| Location | Details | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|
| John Wayne Airport (SNA) | • Closest airport to Huntington Beach (12 miles / 19 km) • On-site rental counters between Terminals A/B • Major companies: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Sixt |
• Most convenient option if flying in • No shuttle needed at SNA – walk to counters • 20–25 minute drive to Huntington Beach |
| Long Beach Airport (LGB) | • 13 miles (21 km) from Huntington Beach • On-site rental center • Several major companies |
• Smaller airport and fewer flights • Less congestion than larger airports • 25–30 minute drive to Huntington Beach |
| LAX Airport | • Larger selection of vehicles • More rental companies • 35 miles (56 km) from Huntington Beach |
• Requires 45–90 minute drive (depends on traffic) • Long shuttle rides to rental centers • Higher airport fees |
| Huntington Beach City Locations | • Enterprise, Hertz locations in city • Primarily along Beach Blvd |
• Often closed Sundays and have limited Saturday hours • Some offer pick-up service from hotels |
On average, car rentals in Huntington Beach cost around $53 per day, with the lowest-priced rentals starting at $23 per day.
Compare pickup spots SNA and LGB airports sit 12–13 miles (19–21 km) from the sand and tack on airport fees. A city branch on Beach Blvd could be cheaper if your arrival time lines up with their hours. Check both in our search and let the numbers decide.
Dodge peak-surf season if you can Rates jump May–September, especially during the US Open of Surfing and holiday weekends. Traveling October-April usually means lower base prices and emptier beaches.
Go weekly for trips 5-plus days In SoCal math, seven days often cost the same as five. Toggle "weekly" in the quote box and see if the total drops.
Refuel inland, not oceanside Gas stations along I-405 or Beach Blvd are often 30-50 cents cheaper per gallon than the ones facing Pacific Coast Highway. A cheap top-off before returning keeps the rental company from charging premium fuel prices.
| Location | Parking Options | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Huntington Beach Pier/Main Street | City parking lots and structures | Paid; some lots may offer free spots after evening hours |
| Huntington State Beach | State beach parking lots | Daily flat fee; annual pass options available |
| Bolsa Chica State Beach | State beach parking lots | Daily flat fee; annual pass options available |
| Bella Terra Shopping Center | Free parking | Large shopping center with movie theater |
| Pacific City | Validated parking | Upscale shopping center near pier |
| Residential Areas | Street parking restricted in some areas | Watch for permit-only zones near beach |
| Downtown | Metered street parking | Limited time (usually 2 hours) |
Many cyclists in beach areas, maintain a 3-foot passing distance
Pacific Coast Highway can become congested on weekends
Book a car rental to see:
Disneyland – Anaheim
Newport Beach – harbor
Laguna Beach – galleries
Long Beach – aquarium and harbor
What's the best way to get a rental car if I'm flying into the area?
John Wayne Airport (SNA) is the easiest place to rent a car. It's only 12 miles (19 km) from Huntington Beach and you'll find rental counters right at the airport. Long Beach Airport (LGB) is also close (about 13 miles / 21 km) and is usually less crowded. You'll find the most flights and rental companies at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), but it's about 35 miles (56 km) away. The drive to Huntington Beach can take 45 to 90 minutes because of traffic and because you have to ride a shuttle to get to the rental cars.
Is it difficult to find parking at Huntington Beach?
In the busy summer months from June to August, the beach parking lots often fill up by 10 or 11 AM, especially on weekends and holidays. The city runs a few parking garages near the pier. They charge about $2–$3 per hour or $15–$30 for the day. The price depends on the specific lot, the day of the week and the season. You often need a permit to park on the street in neighborhoods near the beach. Arrive early for the best options.
Do I need a car if I'm staying at a beachfront hotel in Huntington Beach?
If you plan to stay mostly in the downtown and pier area, you can get by without a car and just use ride-share services. However, we strongly recommend renting a car if you want to visit other beaches, theme parks or attractions in Southern California. Public transportation is limited and takes a lot of time.
What's the best route to Disneyland from Huntington Beach?
To get there fastest, you can usually take I-405 North to I-5 North (about 16 miles / 26 km, 25–35 minutes when there's not much traffic). As another option, you can use local streets like Beach Boulevard to Ball Road when the freeway is busy. Try to avoid traveling during weekday rush hours (6–9 AM and 3–7 PM).
Are there any toll roads I should know about in the Huntington Beach area?
You won't find any toll roads right in Huntington Beach, but there are several elsewhere in Orange County, including SR-73, SR-133, SR-241 and SR-261. To avoid them, set your GPS to "avoid toll roads" or stick to free highways like I-405 and PCH for most destinations.
What type of vehicle is best for a beach vacation in Huntington Beach?
For couples or small groups, a midsize car is a good choice because it's comfortable and easy to park. If you'll be carrying beach gear, surfboards or taking day trips, consider getting an SUV. People love convertibles for driving along the coast on PCH, but they have less secure storage for your beach items.
How far is Huntington Beach from Los Angeles attractions?
Downtown Los Angeles is about 35 miles (56 km) northeast, and the drive takes 45 to 90 minutes depending on traffic. Hollywood is 40 to 45 miles (64 to 72 km) away, a trip that takes 60 to 90 minutes. Universal Studios is about 45 miles (72 km) north, which is also a 60 to 90 minute drive. Your travel time will change a lot based on traffic, especially during weekday rush hours.
Can I park overnight at the beach parking lots?
No. The state beach parking lots close at sunset. City beach lots and garages post their hours, and they usually close between 9 PM and midnight. You are not allowed to park in these lots overnight. If you need to park your car overnight, use your hotel's parking or ask about public garages that allow overnight stays.
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