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 this beautiful city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families, beachgoers, and city explorers alike. You can visit stunning spots such as Lido Beach, which is perfect for beach experiences, or take a leisurely stroll around St. Armands Circle, great for city-themed outings. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, showcasing remarkable artworks and history. A rental car also allows convenient access to popular destinations like Lido Key, featuring South Lido Park and Siesta Key Beach, known for its beautiful sands. South Sarasota offers neighbourhood gems like The Landings, while Central Sarasota is home to attractions such as Marina Jack and the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. Having a car means you can easily navigate between these areas, making the most of your time in Sarasota without the limitations of public transport.

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 has established itself as a leading choice for car hire in Sarasota, boasting two rental locations in the area. Travellers particularly favour their Midsize SUV and Standard SUV options, which provide ample space and comfort for exploring the region. With a reputation for efficient service and well-maintained vehicles, Avis ensures a pleasant rental experience, allowing you to navigate Sarasota and its surroundings with ease.
• Hertz: Another popular supplier in Sarasota, Hertz also operates two rental locations in the vicinity. Many customers opt for their Midsize SUV and Compact vehicles, which are ideal for both solo travellers and families alike. Known for their reliable service and a diverse fleet, Hertz makes it easy for you to find the perfect vehicle to suit your travel needs while enjoying the freedom to explore the beautiful Sarasota area.
• Budget: Budget is a great option for those looking for cost-effective car hire solutions in Sarasota, with two convenient rental locations available. Their Midsize SUV and Economy cars are particularly sought after, offering a balance of comfort and value. Budget is committed to providing competitive rates and a straightforward rental process, making it an excellent choice for travellers eager to explore Sarasota at their own pace.

Where to stay in Sarasota

• Lido Key: This picturesque island near Sarasota offers a wonderful family experience with its stunning beaches and recreational areas. Lido Key is home to the beautiful South Lido Park, where outdoor activities abound. For beach enthusiasts, Lido Beach and Siesta Key Beach are nearby, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The area also features a shopping mall centre and a variety of restaurants and wineries, making it a delightful spot for relaxation and exploration.
• Central Sarasota: Central Sarasota is a vibrant neighbourhood ideal for families and beach lovers alike. Here, visitors can enjoy the scenic Marina Jack, which is perfect for outdoor adventures, or visit the enchanting Marie Selby Botanical Gardens for a touch of romance amidst nature. Siesta Key Beach is also within reach, offering pristine sands and beautiful waters. The area boasts a shopping centre and numerous dining options, providing a convenient and enjoyable stay.
• South Sarasota: This charming neighbourhood caters to families and those seeking a city-themed experience. South Sarasota features The Landings, a lovely town neighbourhood ideal for leisurely strolls. The stunning Siesta Key Beach and Lido Beach are both in close proximity, perfect for beach days. With ample shopping centres and recreational areas, as well as various restaurants nearby, South Sarasota is a great base for your adventures in the region.

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 outings, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect match for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary according to demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are more 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 offer a suitable compromise between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age criteria before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements stipulate a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Other policies may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but the added convenience might justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's simple to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning extensive road trips, seek rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of 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 value period to rent a car in and around Sarasota is May, when prices are lower and demand is average. June also offers slight savings with low demand, making it a good option for those looking to avoid crowds. March tends to be the busiest and most expensive month, with high demand and slightly elevated prices. October follows closely as another expensive month, as demand remains low but prices are higher.

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