Car Rentals in Sarasota, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Sarasota

Renting a car in Sarasota offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for families or those travelling with luggage, as it allows for easy management of belongings while visiting various sites. With a rental car, you can conveniently visit Lido Beach, perfect for beach experiences, and St. Armands Circle, ideal for city-themed exploration. Cultural enthusiasts can head to the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, showcasing rich artistic heritage.

Having a vehicle also makes it simple to discover popular destinations like Lido Key, which features South Lido Park and Siesta Key Beach, or South Sarasota, known for its beautiful beaches. Central Sarasota offers attractions such as Marina Jack and the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. With your own car, you can create flexible travel plans, ensuring that you have the opportunity to experience all that Sarasota has to offer without the constraints of public transport or the unpredictability of rideshares.

Most popular car hires in Sarasota

• Midsize SUV: Accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV offers a balance of space and comfort, allowing you to travel around Sarasota with ease, while providing ample room for your luggage and any souvenirs you may collect during your adventures.
• Standard SUV: This vehicle also accommodates 5 travellers but with up to 2 medium suitcases. It's ideal for couples, families, or groups looking for a bit more space without going overboard. The standard SUV provides a comfortable ride and is perfect for navigating Sarasota's attractions while ensuring you have enough room for your belongings.
• Compact: Ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families, the compact car accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases. It's perfect for those who prefer a smaller vehicle that is easy to park and manoeuvre around Sarasota. The compact option combines convenience with cost-effectiveness, making it a popular choice for tourists wanting to explore the area without the hassle of larger vehicles.

Top rated car suppliers in Sarasota

• Avis: Avis operates two rental locations in the Sarasota area, making it easily accessible for travellers. The most popular vehicle choices with this supplier include the Midsize SUV and Standard SUV, providing a comfortable and spacious option for exploring the region. Avis is known for its efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a reliable experience for those looking to discover Sarasota's attractions at their own pace.
• Hertz: Also boasting two rental locations in Sarasota, Hertz is a convenient choice for tourists seeking flexibility during their visit. Travellers often prefer the Midsize SUV and Compact models, which are ideal for navigating both city streets and scenic drives. Hertz is praised for its straightforward booking process and a wide selection of vehicles, making it a popular option for various travel needs.
• Budget: Budget has two rental locations in the Sarasota area, offering easy access for visitors. This supplier is particularly favoured for its Midsize SUV and Economy vehicle options, catering to diverse preferences and budgets. Budget is known for competitive pricing and efficient service, which makes it a solid choice for those looking to explore Sarasota without the hassle of public transport.

Where to stay in Sarasota

• Lido Key: A picturesque island area, Lido Key is ideal for those seeking a family-friendly beach experience. It features attractions like South Lido Park, perfect for outdoor activities, and is in close proximity to Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach. Visitors can enjoy a variety of nearby restaurants and a shopping mall centre, making it a convenient choice for tourists looking for a blend of relaxation and urban amenities.
• Central Sarasota: Central Sarasota is a vibrant neighbourhood that offers a mix of family and city-themed experiences. Key highlights include Marina Jack, a popular marina for adventures, and the beautiful Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, perfect for a romantic stroll. With easy access to Siesta Key Beach, Central Sarasota is a great base for families and beach lovers alike, while also providing a selection of nearby restaurants.
• South Sarasota: South Sarasota is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and urban charm. The Landings is a notable town neighbourhood that adds to the local flavour, alongside access to both Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach for sun-seekers. The area also features a variety of shopping centres and recreational areas, offering all the amenities a traveller might need for a comfortable stay.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Sarasota

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer adventures, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the optimal choice for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might be unavailable. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always confirm the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This option is usually the most advantageous. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable; just ensure you return the car empty in this case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car at airports, but the convenience may justify the additional cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It is simple to add car hire insurance when booking with Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on embarking on long road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Sarasota

The best time to rent a car in and around Sarasota is November, when prices are at their lowest and demand is modestly high. October also offers good value with slightly lower prices and average demand. May presents a similar opportunity, with slightly low prices and average demand. In contrast, August tends to be the most expensive month, with higher demand alongside elevated prices. April is particularly busy, making it a peak time for rentals in the area.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	62.6°F (17.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
March	68.4°F (20.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	73.8°F (23.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
May	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	82.0°F (27.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	83.1°F (28.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	83.5°F (28.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Slightly High
September	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
October	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
November	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly Low
December	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average