Pick-up location
Pick-up date
Drop-off Date
4.67/5
Based on 1,300+ reviews
Excellent
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Merritt Island
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Merritt Island
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Merritt Island
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Merritt Island
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.
Merritt Island is a fantastic destination with many attractions and points of interest spread across the island. While some public transport options are available, renting a car provides the most convenient and flexible way to explore all that Merritt Island and the surrounding areas have to offer.
Complete Flexibility. Having your own vehicle allows you to explore at your own pace and on your own schedule. You won't be constrained by bus routes or tour schedules, giving you the freedom to discover hidden gems and local favourites.
Access to Remote Locations. Merritt Island is home to many natural attractions, such as beaches and wildlife reserves, that are not easily accessible by public transport. A rental car allows you to reach these remote locations with ease.
Convenience for Families. If you're travelling with family or a group, a rental car provides ample space for passengers and luggage, making your trip more comfortable and stress-free.
Before renting a car in Merritt Island, it's essential to understand the rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Area
52 square miles (135 square kilometres)
Population
Approximately 36,000 residents
Time Zone
Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Ideal for
Visiting local attractions and beaches
Rush Hours
Expect some traffic during morning and evening commutes
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Merritt Island require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, drivers under 25 may be subject to additional fees.
2. Driver’s Licence & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is required, and international visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English.
3. Insurance & DepositsRental agreements typically include basic insurance coverage, but you may opt for additional coverage. A security deposit is usually required and will be refunded upon the vehicle's safe return.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMileage policies can vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others imposing limits. Fuel policies also differ, with many requiring you to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for options like GPS navigation, child seats, or additional drivers.
Car rental prices in Merritt Island can vary based on the season, type of vehicle, and rental duration.
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £8 / $10 / €9.50 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31.50 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £9 / $11 / €10.50 per day
Peak season (March to July): Rental prices increase by 20-30% due to higher tourist traffic.
Low season (September to November): Discounts are often available during the off-season 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 Merritt Island is easy if you follow these steps.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it's a compact car for solo travel or a larger SUV for families.
3. Check Rental Terms - Carefully review the rental agreement, including mileage limits, insurance coverage, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Secure the best rates and ensure availability by booking your rental car well in advance.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver's licence, credit card, and any other required documents when you pick up your rental car.
Merritt Island, Florida, offers a blend of natural beauty and attractions that are best explored with a car.
Merritt Island is known for its proximity to the Kennedy Space Center and its scenic coastline. Renting a car is particularly useful for visiting these attractions and exploring the surrounding areas.
Top Attractions to Discover
Kennedy Space Center
Explore space exploration history and see rocket launch exhibits.
Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
Observe diverse wildlife and enjoy scenic nature trails.
Beaches
Relax and enjoy the sun and surf along the Atlantic coast.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Parking garages are available near popular attractions and shopping areas.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available in some areas, but it may be limited and metered.
Park & Ride
Park-and-ride options are limited, but some hotels and attractions offer parking facilities.
Gas Stations in Merritt Island
Major Brands Available
Gas stations from major chains like Shell, BP, and Chevron are readily available.
Convenient Locations
Gas stations are located along main roads and near shopping centres.
Refuelling Tips
Plan your refuelling stops in advance, especially if you're travelling to remote areas.
Useful Tips for Visiting Merritt Island
Use Navigation Apps
Use GPS apps to navigate and find the best routes to your destinations.
Allow Extra Travel Time
Traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so allow extra time for travel.
Check for Toll Roads
Be aware of toll roads and have cash or a toll pass available.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during outdoor activities.
Major Bus Stations
Cocoa Beach Shuttle
Provides limited shuttle services to nearby Cocoa Beach.
Railway Stations
Nearest Train Station
The nearest train station is located in Orlando, about an hour's drive away.
Airports
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
The primary airport serving the Merritt Island area, located about 45 miles west.
Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)
A smaller airport located about 25 miles south.
Renting a car in Merritt Island requires a few essential documents.
You must have a valid driver’s licence.
The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21 or 25, depending on the rental company.
A credit or debit card in your name is required for the security deposit.
A passport or other form of government-issued ID may be required.
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 Merritt Island as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Pretty chill vibe
Kevin Garcia
Reviewed: 06.07.2025
Merritt Island was lovely for a quick visit with friends. The wildlife was amazing, but the beach was surprisingly crowded. Having a car made getting around so much easier though!
Emily Carter
Reviewed: 23.06.2025
Relaxing, good drives
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 21.12.2024
Low-key, kinda fun
Alex Johnson
Reviewed: 04.05.2025
Pretty laid-back, eh?
Mia Lopez
Reviewed: 04.08.2025
Pretty peaceful, really.
James Wilson
Reviewed: 09.03.2025
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Merritt Island was fantastic! Having a car made exploring so easy – we zipped around, saw the wildlife, and enjoyed the beautiful beaches. The whole trip went smoothly, and we'll definitely be back!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 14.04.2025