Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
Trustpilot
San Juan del Sur
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
San Juan del Sur
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
San Juan del Sur
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
San Juan del Sur
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
San Juan del Sur is a vibrant coastal town offering stunning beaches, thrilling surf spots, and breathtaking sunsets. While you can rely on local transportation, renting a car grants you the freedom to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.
Explore Hidden Beaches. San Juan del Sur is surrounded by beautiful, secluded beaches that are difficult to reach without a car. Discover your own private paradise!
Visit Nearby Attractions. With a rental car, you can easily visit attractions like the Christ of the Mercy statue, Playa Maderas for surfing, and the colonial city of Granada.
Enjoy Flexibility and Convenience. Public transport can be unreliable and infrequent. Having your own car allows you to travel on your schedule and stop whenever and wherever you want.
Before booking a rental car in San Juan del Sur, familiarise yourself with the standard rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
Approximately 165.5 square kilometres
Population
Approximately 18,000 residents
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Ideal for
Exploring beaches and nearby towns
Rush Hours
Expect increased traffic in the town centre during peak tourist season and weekends.
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in San Juan del Sur require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may charge a young driver fee for those under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence from your country of residence is required. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not always necessary.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance, but it's wise to consider additional coverage like collision damage waiver (CDW). A security deposit is usually required and held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others imposing restrictions. Be sure to understand the fuel policy, as returning the car with less fuel than when you picked it up can result in extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for add-ons like GPS navigation, child seats, or additional drivers.
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €24 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €12 per day
Executive:
from £28 / $35 / €33 per day
7 Seater:
from £30 / $38 / €36 per day
Automatic:
from £22 / $28 / €26 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Peak season (December to April): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher tourist demand.
Low season (May to November): Discounts are often available during these months.
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
Booking a car in San Juan del Sur is simple, but careful planning ensures the best experience.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison platforms to find the most competitive rates from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors like size, fuel efficiency, and terrain.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, paying attention to mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Booking early, especially during peak season, can help you secure lower prices and ensure availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - When collecting your rental, ensure you have your driver’s licence, passport, and credit card readily available.
San Juan del Sur is a beautiful coastal town in Nicaragua, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Exploring San Juan del Sur and its surroundings is best done with a rental car, allowing you to discover hidden gems and enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace. Understanding local traffic regulations, parking options, and fuel availability is crucial for a smooth experience. As you drive in San Juan del Sur, remember that local conditions may differ from those in your home country, so adapt your driving style accordingly.
Top Attractions to Discover
Christ of the Mercy
A towering statue overlooking San Juan del Sur, offering panoramic views.
Playa Maderas
A popular surf beach known for its consistent waves.
Granada
A colonial city with colourful architecture and rich history, a short drive from San Juan del Sur.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Limited public parking garages are available in the town centre.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available but can be challenging to find during peak hours. Always check for parking regulations and time limits.
Hotel Parking
Many hotels offer parking facilities for their guests.
Gas Stations in San Juan del Sur
Main Fuel Chains
Major fuel brands like Puma and Uno are available in and around San Juan del Sur.
Refuelling Tips
It is advisable to refuel before embarking on long drives to ensure you don't run out of gas in remote areas.
Payment Options
Most gas stations accept cash, and some may accept credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting San Juan del Sur
Stay Hydrated
Carry water with you, especially during hot weather.
Bargain at Markets
Don't hesitate to negotiate prices at local markets.
Learn Basic Spanish
Knowing a few basic Spanish phrases can enhance your experience.
Allow Extra Time for Travel
Road conditions can vary, so allow ample time to reach your destinations.
Major Bus Stations
San Juan del Sur Bus Terminal
The primary bus terminal connecting San Juan del Sur with other cities and towns in Nicaragua.
Airports
Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA)
Located in Managua, approximately 130 kilometres from San Juan del Sur, it is the main international airport in Nicaragua.
Renting a car in Nicaragua is a fairly simple process, but ensure you have the required documents to avoid any issues.
A valid driver’s licence from your home country is essential. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended but not always required.
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some may have a higher minimum age and charge extra for young drivers.
A credit or debit card in the main driver's name is required for the security deposit. Check with the rental company if they accept debit cards.
A passport or other form of government-issued identification is required for international renters.
This content was written, fact-checked, and/or translated by our expert team of content creators.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our clients rate such place as San Juan del Sur as
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Chill vibes, good times.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 27.03.2025
San Juan del Sur was amazing! Having a car made exploring the beaches and surrounding areas so easy during our summer holiday. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 21.03.2025
So glad I returned to San Juan del Sur after all these years! Having a car made getting around a breeze. Beautiful!
Evelyn Reed
Reviewed: 07.02.2025
Pretty chill, overall.
Kai Jensen
Reviewed: 26.12.2024
Absolutely loved my quick trip to San Juan del Sur! Catching up with friends was fantastic, and having a car made exploring so much easier. Beautiful beaches and charming town.
Ava Wilson
Reviewed: 12.06.2025
Pretty relaxed, overall.
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 06.08.2025
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Quick weekend trip; San Juan del Sur was lovely, though the beaches were a bit crowded.
Maria Garcia
Reviewed: 15.10.2024