6 Camper Van Rentals for the Ultimate California Coast Road Trip

Renting a camper van and road tripping is an incredible way to explore any place on earth, but especially the famously beautiful California coast. And especially if you surf. There are so many great surf breaks all over California, you could spend months exploring them.

We went on an epic surfing road trip up the California coast a while ago. When we were planning the trip, we did a whole lot of research on camper van rentals. Since our trip, this article has helped hundreds of thousands of travelers discover the best campervan rental companies in California.

Due to the popularity of this travel resource, we always keep this information current and up to date. We’ve already done the work for you, so here’s a detailed lowdown on the best camper van rentals in California.

In this camper van guide, we share everything you need to know about renting a camper van in California. We’ve outlined details on the best rental companies, including locations, passenger capacity, one-way fees, mileage, pet policies, and pricing.

If you’re planning to do some road tripping along the coast (which we highly recommend!), be sure to check out our guide to the Pacific Coast Highway >> Highway 1 Road Trip / A Surfer’s Guide to the California Coast

Camper Van Rentals 101

Camper vans are small motorhomes with various camping and living features such as a small kitchen, fridge, bed, and storage space. Because camper vans are smaller than traditional motorhomes, they don’t require a special driver’s license. Therefore, they are easy to drive and maneuver.

Also known as Class B RVs or Class B motorhomes, camper vans are typically 19 to 24 feet in length and are smartly designed to pack as many features and amenities as possible into a compact space.

Types and Layouts

Camper vans come in many types and layouts, with floor plans and amenities varying greatly. For instance, custom camper vans can feature luxe interiors, outdoor or indoor showers, bathrooms, recessed lighting, solar panels, and special gear storage. Some camper vans also have pop tops or high tops to accommodate easier standing in the van or offer an additional bunk bed.

While amenities and features of camper van rentals can vary greatly, all of the camper van rentals on this list have some form of a small built-in kitchen and a bed, as well as a host of other amenities to consider. It’s good to note that all camper van rentals are not created equal. Some campers are smaller, more bare-bones rentals, while others come with the whole enchilada. So definitely take that into consideration when looking at pricing.

Camper vans have become wildly popular in recent years, leading to a huge variety of camper vans for rent in California. From sporty off-grid adventure vans to retro VW buses as well as fully-equipped luxury camper vans for the ultimate glamping experience — there are endless options to travel in a camper and experience the #vanlife.

Camper Van vs Large RV

First things first – RV stands for ‘Recreational Vehicle’ and there are all types of campers that fit into the RV category. Camper vans, larger motorhomes (Class A and Class C RVs), travel trailers (such as Airstreams), and truck campers are just a few of the main types of recreational vehicles.

Camper vans are technically a type of RV but have many differences from larger motorhomes, offering a different experience. Both have pros and cons, and the best option depends on your personal tastes, travel style, and desired experience.

We’ll spare you the details of describing every single type of RV. Instead, to keep it simple, we’ll compare camper vans to larger motorhomes (Class C and Class A RVs).

• Class C Motorhomes are what many people have in mind when thinking of an RV. They range from 21 – 41 feet,  have an attached cab, and most models also feature an overhang above the cab for storage or sleeping quarters.

• Class A Motorhomes are the giants of the RV world. They are the largest and most luxurious of all motorhomes, resembling big buses. These RVs also feature large kitchens and bathrooms and can sleep up to 10 people.

Pros & Cons

The pros and cons of camper vans and larger motorhomes are subjective and depend on your desired travel experience. Here are key points to consider to determine if a camper van is ideal for your trip.

• Versatility and Maneuverability: Camper vans, being more compact, are versatile and offer greater freedom and flexibility. Not only are they easier to drive and maneuver, but they are also suitable for city travel, normal parking spaces, and smaller roads that larger RVs cannot access. This compact size makes them perfect for spontaneous and adaptable travel plans.
  
• Fuel Efficiency: Camper vans are generally more fuel-efficient than larger RVs, leading to lower fuel costs and a smaller carbon footprint.
  
• Space Constraints: The limited space in camper vans can be a downside, particularly for larger groups or traveling during inclement weather, the interior space can feel quite cramped
  
• Amenities: Unlike many larger RVs, most camper vans do not have bathrooms, which could be a significant consideration for some travelers.

Pricing Comparisons

When it comes to RV rentals, smaller doesn’t always mean cheaper. Camper van rentals can be the same price or even more expensive than large motorhome rentals. But if you’re looking to travel on a lower budget, don’t despair! There are definitely some simple camper van rentals available for a more budget-friendly trip. We’ll cover campervan pricing in more detail below.

RV Rental California

If you’re considering a larger or different RV, you have plenty of options for the perfect California RV rental. To check out different types of RVs and to get the lowdown on renting an RV in California, check out our guide to California RV Rentals.   

Camper Van Rental Prices in California

Many rental companies don’t publish standard rates, as prices fluctuate based on factors such as the season, rental duration (typically, longer rentals have lower nightly rates), and how far in advance you book. The camper van model, its features, and what’s included in the rental also significantly affect the price.

We’ll give you exact price ranges for our recommended rental companies listed below. Just to give you an idea, camper van rentals in California can range from $50 to $400 per night. Typically, many rentals are priced around $120 to $250 per night.

As mentioned, camper van rental prices vary greatly depending on the season. High season demands the highest rates, while the low season offers great deals.  Here are the seasons (roughly) for road-tripping and camping in California:

• High season (summer): June – September
• Midseason: October, April, and May
• Low season (winter): November – March

* Note that you will see higher rates during US holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas/New Years, and dates that include 3-day weekends.

It’s also good to know that some companies also offer relocation rates, which can be a great deal if your travel plans align. For instance, Escape Campervans offers discounts of 50-70% off and no one-way fees. You can check out Escape’s relocation rates here.

The Nitty Gritty of Price Comparisons

Comparing camper van rental prices can be tricky since each company includes different features in their rates. To help you navigate this, let’s break down an example:

• Company A: Offers a base rate of $50 per night, excluding mileage and extras like kitchen utensils or bedding.
• Company B: Charges $75 per night, including 150 miles per day, but no extras.
• Company C: Rates at $100 per night, with 150 miles per day, plus all extras such as bedding, kitchen utensils, and propane included.

So, which company offers the best value? It’s like a 5th-grade math problem, plus a whole lot of other variables! Because of this, it’s hard to get an apples-to-apples comparison unless you meticulously match up the amenities of one rental versus another. It depends on your specific needs and trip details. If you won’t be driving many miles, a lower base rate might save you money. However, once you add all the necessary extras, the total cost might be similar across different companies.

For a precise comparison, you really have to align the amenities of each rental option. While a company might advertise a low nightly rate, the final price after including all extras could match a higher initial rate from another company.

Tips for Choosing the Right Camper Van Rental

1. Firstly, Evaluate Mileage Needs: Estimate your trip’s mileage to determine if included miles are sufficient or if you’ll incur extra mileage charges.
2. Secondly, Check for Extras: Consider what is included in the rental rate. Essentials like kitchen utensils, bedding, and propane can add up if not included.
3. And finally, Compare Total Costs: Look beyond the base rate and calculate the total cost, including all necessary extras.

Choosing the right camper van rental company involves more than just comparing prices. It’s about finding the best fit for your travel needs. Whether you prioritize a lower nightly rate or a more inclusive package, ensure your choice aligns with your trip’s specifics. This approach also guarantees a more seamless and enjoyable travel experience.

The Pricing in This Guide

In this guide, we list the base prices for camper van rentals in California. To provide more transparency on pricing, we researched quotes for each camper van rental company for a week-long rental during both the high season (June) and the low season (December). The quotes are for one week (7 nights) and include:

• at least 100 miles per day
• bedding
• kitchen utensils
• propane
• camping chairs

The quotes do not include taxes or additional insurance, but we do list insurance details. Remember, the best pricing depends on your trip. Check out the pricing, but also consider the vehicle type and the experience you want. Pricing will vary widely depending on the season, so this is just to give you an idea of rates.

Another thing to consider is that some companies allow one-way trips and some don’t. Also again, everyone has different pricing for one-way trips as well. At the end of the day, have fun with it and choose the camper van that best suits your taste and trip.

Here’s the lowdown on the 6 best camper van rentals in California. You’re sure to find a wonderful camper van to have an incredible road trip to remember!

Camper Van Rentals in California

Price Comparisons of Camper Van Rental Companies 

Company	Base Price (Per Night)	Mileage Included	Additional Fees	Hidden Costs
Escape Campervans	$45 – $183	0-150 miles/day	One-way fee: $150-$350	Insurance: $13.99-$43.98/ day
Outdoorsy	$100+	50-150 miles/day	Service fee: ~20%	Insurance: $15-$50/day
Travellers Autobarn	$48 – $109	Unlimited	One-way fee: $175	Insurance: $0-$29.99/day
Vintage Surfari Wagons	$159 – $229	50-100 miles/day	One-way fee: $550-$950	Insurance: Credit card insurance invalid
The Camper Cartel	$175 – $400	Unlimited	One-way trips not available	Insurance: $29.95+/day
Avanti Campervans	$89 – $175	150 miles/day	One-way fee: $200	Insurance: $8/day

1 • ESCAPE CAMPERVANS

Campervan Rentals California

*use promo code Lush25 for $25 off your booking.

Escape Campervans has the largest fleet of camper vans in North America, with 12 locations across the US and Canada. Each van has been hand-painted by a local artist, so you’ll be driving and living out of a moving piece of art. In fact, Escape has partnered with LA-based artists to paint every van and styles range from abstract to landscape to cartoon to classic graffiti.

Escape offers five camper models (from small to large): the Santa Cruz (Ford Transit Connect), Mavericks (Ford E150), Big Sur (Ford T-350), Dela Mar Pop Top (Ford T-350), and a 4×4 Jeep Camper with a rooftop sleeper tent. These campers fit in most tent sites. Also, for remote camping, the vans have solar panels for off-grid adventures.

Escape’s camper vans include beds, storage space, sinks, refrigerators, stoves, 24/7 roadside assistance, and it also allow extra drivers for free. The company also offers additional rentals like bedding, kitchen kits, solar showers, and bike racks.

Check out Escape Campervans >>

RENTAL LOCATIONS: Los Angeles, Chicago, Denver, Las Vegas, New York, Orlando, Phoenix, Arizona, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, Seattle, Calgary, AB., Vancouver, BC.

PASSENGERS: Dela Mar (seats 5, sleeps 5) Santa Cruz (seats 2, sleeps 2), Mavericks (seats 5, sleeps 5 with rooftop sleeper), Mesa (seats 5, sleeps 5 with rooftop sleeper), 4×4 Rooftop Jeep Camper (seats 5 and sleeps 2)

MILEAGE: Additional fee. Mileage packages depend on camper van model.

PETS: The pet fee is $150 (up to 2 pets allowed). Moreover, you will be charged $250 if not disclosed beforehand. Pets are allowed year-round.

PRICING (not including taxes):

• BASE PRICE: $45 – $183 per night (depending on the season)
• 7-NIGHT TRIP QUOTE (including 100 miles/day and extras):
  • LOW SEASON: starting at $563.39 per week (7 nights) / ~$80.48 per night
  • HIGH SEASON: starting at $875 per week (7 nights) / ~$125 per night

ONE-WAY FEE: $150 to $350 depending on locations

INSURANCE: $13.99 to $43.98/day. Insurance options vary by model and pickup location.

GOOD TO KNOW: Escape Campervans offers extensive road trip route options due to their numerous locations and one-way trip availability. It’s important to note that Renters must be 21+ with a valid driver’s license. Also, Escape’s offices are open seven days a week.

LUSH PALM PERKS: Use promo code ‘LUSH25’ at check out for $25 off your rental.

2 • OUTDOORSY

Book Campervans, RVs, and Travel Trailers direct for owners

*use promo code LushPalm for $50 off your rental

Outdoorsy is an online rental marketplace that connects camper van owners with camper van renters. Think of it as Airbnb for campervan rentals. Outdoorsy offers various adventure-ready vehicles, from custom camper vans and vintage Airstreams to motorhomes and also RV rentals.

Similarly to Airbnb, you communicate directly with the camper van owner, and Outdoorsy gives you security and support through the process. Moreover, booking with Outdoorsy includes $1M insurance (after passing a DMV check), 24/7 RV rental roadside assistance, and customer support.

There are thousands of camper van rentals in California, mainly around San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. In these areas, you’ll find some seriously awesome camper vans available for rent, including 4×4 Mercedes Sprinter Adventure Vans, Vintage VW pop-top campers, and also slick custom campers with surfboard racks and all the bells and whistles.

Check out Outdoorsy Campervans >>

RENTAL LOCATIONS: Seattle, Texas, New York, Las Vegas, Miami, Portland, Florida, Colorado, Orlando, Hawaii, and throughout California – the majority of rentals are based in San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco

PASSENGERS: Depends on the vehicle; the camper vans typically seat 2-5, and sleep 2-4

MILEAGE: Depends on the vehicle; most rentals are in the range  50-150 free miles per day

PETS: Depends on the vehicle. Some rentals don’t allow pets, some allow pets for a fee, and some are also pet-friendly with no fee

PRICING (not including taxes):

• BASE PRICE: starting around $100 per night
• 7-NIGHT TRIP QUOTE:
  • pricing ranges greatly depending on the camper van
  • starting around $960 per week (7 nights) / ~$160 per night

ONE-WAY FEE: Most camper vans for rent on Outdoorsy are listed by private owners and therefore don’t offer options for one-way trips

INSURANCE: The Outdoorsy insurance process is fully automated, paperless, and only takes a few minutes for each user. Coverage is automatic for every certified vehicle on Outdoorsy, as long as the renter passes their DMV check. Renters are also covered under a $1 Million liability policy and $300,000 in comprehensive and collision protection. Outdoorsy also offers free 24/7 roadside assistance.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Renters must be 25+ to book with Outdoorsy. To find camper vans, use the Outdoorsy home page to filter for camper vans by selecting ‘Vehicle Type‘ -> ‘Camper Van.’ Since all listings on Outdoorsy are owned and managed by individual owners, terms can vary. Therefore, read listings thoroughly to understand included amenities and available add-ons, such as surfboards, wetsuits, and camp chairs.

LUSH PALM PERKS: Use promo code ‘LushPalm’ at check out for $50 off your rental.

3 • TRAVELLERS AUTOBARN

Campervan & RV Rentals

*use promo code Lushpalm for $25 off your booking – 7 days or more required.

Travellers Autobarn offers budget-friendly minivans and camper van rentals in California. Their three models—the HiTop, Hi5, and Kuga—have unique layouts and plenty of head space. Each comes equipped with a sink, microwave, fridge, gas stove, 120 Volt and USB plug-ins, and also free unlimited miles. Moreover, the Hi5 and Kuga models feature solar panels to recharge your lights and fridge at your campsite.

Travellers Autobarn also rents a basic unbranded minivan, which isn’t outfitted as a camper van. You can also add their ‘Living Equipment’ package, which includes a tent, camping chairs, table, gas cooker, and cooking equipment.

A bonus for longer road trips is that one-way fees are waived for all rentals over 28 days. Great choice for those wanting to rent a camper van for a month.

Check out Travellers Autobarn Campervans >>

RENTAL LOCATIONS: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Seattle & Las Vegas

PASSENGERS: Hi-Top and Kuga Campervans (sleeps and seats 2-3) Hi5 Campervan (sleeps and seats 4-5)

MILEAGE: Free unlimited miles with every rental.

PETS: Pets are not allowed.

PRICING (not including taxes):

• BASE PRICE: $48 – $109 (depending on the season)
• 7-NIGHT TRIP QUOTE
  • LOW SEASON: starting at $390.40 per week (8 days) / ~$48.80 per day
  • HIGH SEASON: starting at $729 per week (8 days) / ~$91.20 per day

ONE-WAY FEE: $175

INSURANCE: $0 – $29.99 per day

GOOD TO KNOW:  All vehicles come with free unlimited miles. You can pick up between 10 am to 4 pm and drop off between 9 am to 3 pm Monday to Saturday (closed on Sundays). The Hi5 & Kuga Campervans come with solar panels so you don’t need an electric hook-up because the second battery for the lights and fridge will charge automatically.

LUSH PALM PERKS: Use promo code ‘Lushpalm’ at check out for $25 off your rental. 7 days or more required.

4 • VINTAGE SURFARI WAGONS

*use promo code LushPalm for $50 off your booking

Get a taste of California’s swinging road trip past with a 1970s era VW camper bus. Vintage Surfari Wagons offers sweet retro VW Eurovans from the 70s and groovy 80s Vanagons. Each rental and Vanagon has unique charm, fresh trim, and beach-inspired accents.

The buses come with essentials such as a stove, sink, icebox or refrigerator, dining table, kitchen utensils, coffee press, and cooking fuel, making them an excellent option for those looking for a Volkswagen campervan rental in California.

We had the pleasure of renting a 1979 Deluxe Westfalia Pop-Top Camper named Eddie and had an epic road trip, surfing and camping up the California coast. Read about our VW adventure here.

Check out Vintage Surfari Wagons Campervans >>

RENTAL LOCATIONS: COSTA MESA (near Los Angeles)

PASSENGERS: 4-5 people (sleeps 2-4 adults) depending on model

MILEAGE: Bay Window vehicles come with 50 free miles per rental day, with additional miles charged at $1.25/mile. In contrast, Vanagon vehicles offer 75 free miles per day, while Eurovan vehicles include 100 free miles per day. Additional miles on Vanagon rental and Eurovan are charged at 59¢/mile. Furthermore, all mileage packages must be prepaid and are non-refundable.

PETS: Pets are welcome with prior approval, however, a fee of $100 per pet per rental is required, with a maximum of two pets allowed. Additionally, they request that dogs be under 45 pounds.

PRICING (not including taxes):

• BASE PRICE: $159 – $229 per night (depending on the season)
• 7-NIGHT TRIP QUOTE:
  • LOW SEASON: starting at $1,467 per week (7 nights) / ~$207.5 per night
  • HIGH SEASON: starting at $1,600.52 per week (7 nights) / ~$228 per night

ONE-WAY FEE: For rentals of 14+ days, the fee is $550; for 7-13 days, $750; and for 1-6 days, $950.

INSURANCE: Prior to renting a camper van, customers must provide payment and Driver’s License information via Surfari’s online booking system for eligibility and insurability verification. This quick process ensures insurance activation upon key pickup, with additional drivers requiring prior approval. Also, note that credit card company insurance is invalid for vintage camper van rentals.

GOOD TO KNOW: 

These vintage VWs are exactly that–vintage! Because these buses were developed in the 1930s and built with all the technical sophistication of the 1970s, you don’t have some of those modern car conveniences you take for granted. Most of the buses have a manual transmission, so there’s no air conditioning or power anything, and the company asks that you not exceed 65 mph (105 kph). Only drivers verified through the online booking system and listed on the rental agreement are permitted to drive. Additionally, all drivers and their licenses must be present at vehicle pick-up.

LUSH PALM PERKS: Use promo code ‘LushPalm’ at check out for $50 off your rental.

5 • THE CAMPER CARTEL

The Camper Cartel rents a small fleet of beautifully-designed custom camper vans and 4x4s outfitted with premium extras and gear. These dapper campers will take your road trip to the next level with their special features, comfort, and style.

The Camper Cartel offers four camper models, two of which are camper vans: The California Classic and The Topanga Tourister. The California Classic is a converted Ford Transit High Roof, whereas The Topanga Tourister is a converted Ford Transit Low Roof. Both models feature modern neutral-hued interiors, solar power, and a panoramic sunroof that opens to the stars.

The 4×4 jeep camper is perfect for adventuring off the beaten path, and there’s also a Toyota Tacoma camper. Both models come complete with rooftop tents, awnings, and full sets of camping gear.

All of Camper Cartel’s rentals come equipped with everything you need for your trip. This includes a generous list of kitchen supplies, a portable cooking stove, refrigerator, ambient lighting, bedding, a Marshall Bluetooth speaker, and also an outdoor shower. Extras like kayaks and stand up paddleboards are also available.

Check out The Camper Cartel’s Campers >>

RENTAL LOCATION: Topanga, California (in Los Angeles)

PASSENGERS: 2 – 5 / sleeps 2 – 5 adults

MILEAGE: Unlimited miles

PETS: Pets are not allowed

PRICING (not including taxes):

• BASE PRICE: $175 – $400 per day (depending on the season and model)
• 7-NIGHT TRIP QUOTE:
  • LOW SEASON: starting at $1,140 per week / ~$205 per night
  • HIGH SEASON: starting at $1,656 per week / ~$236 per night

ONE-WAY FEE: One-way trips are not available

INSURANCE: Insurance coverage is required for all rentals, however, there are multiple options available, starting at $29.95 per day, which include California’s minimum insurance protection and up to $100K in physical damage protection.

GOOD TO KNOW: 1% of every trip goes to charity, and all vehicles are solar-equipped. Most importantly, the insurance covers campers in the US and Canada but not in Mexico.

6 • AVANTI CAMPERVANS

AVANTI Campervans specializes in incognito, carbon-neutral minivans equipped with all the essentials for a seamless California camping road trip. With locations across major cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco, also San Diego, and more, AVANTI provides personalized service and flexible pick-up and drop-off options.

AVANTI camper van rentals come fully equipped with essentials at no extra charge. This includes a full bed with a memory foam mattress, fresh linens, a comforter, pillows, a cooler, a propane stove, cooking utensils, as well as portable awning, folding chairs, a table, a camp shower, and more.

The fleet of new 2019 and 2020 Dodge Grand Caravans are easy to drive and fuel-efficient. They are unmarked with no outside company logos, so you can travel like a local. The camper vans are ideal for one or two travelers, but can comfortably seat up to four passengers. The vans sleep two people, so for groups of three or four travelers, the company supplies a tent, air mattress and sleeping bags for camping.

Avanti is a member of STI (Sustainable Travel International) and purchases carbon offsets for every mile driven, making all trips carbon neutral.

Check out Avanti Campervans >>

RENTAL LOCATIONS: Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco, San Diego, Anchorage, Portland, Denver, Boston, New York, Orlando, Miami, and Seattle. Pick up and drop off are available 24/7 from locations near the following airports: LAX, SFO, PDX, SEA-TAC, and LAS. Arrangements for pick up or drop off in other locations are possible with advance coordination.

PASSENGERS: seats 4 people / sleeps 2 adults inside the car (and to accommodate additional campers, a tent, air mattress, and sleeping bags are available)

MILEAGE: 150 free miles per day. Unlimited miles package is available at $15/day

PETS: $150

PRICING (taxes included):

• BASE PRICE: $89 – $175 per night (depending on the season and pick up location)
• 7-NIGHT TRIP QUOTE:
  • LOW SEASON: starting at $794 per week (7 nights) / ~$113 per night
  • HIGH SEASON: starting at $864 per week (7 nights) / ~$23 per night

ONE-WAY FEE: $200 for one-way trips between Los Angeles and San Francisco or Seattle to Portland (both directions). One way trips are available to all major cities in the USA however, fee varies by location.

INSURANCE: $8 per day for basic coverage. External insurance policies are accepted subject to review.

GOOD TO KNOW: Travel to Canada is allowed, and travel to Mexico is possible with specific cars and insurance. Additionally, the vans are designed for comfort and eco-friendliness, making them ideal for stealth camping. They also offset carbon emissions for every mile driven, enhancing your travel experience while being kind to the environment.

Best Routes for Camper Van Road Trips in California

Embarking on a camper van road trip in California promises an adventure filled with stunning landscapes, charming towns, as well as unforgettable experiences. As you plan your trip, consider exploring some of the best routes available to make your journey even more memorable.

Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1)

Stretching from Southern to Northern California, this iconic route offers breathtaking ocean views and charming coastal towns.

• Highlights: Santa Monica, Malibu, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, Monterey, San Francisco
• Check out our Highway 1 Road Trip Guide

Yosemite and the Sierra Nevada

Exploring Yosemite and the surrounding Sierra Nevada region offers a mix of natural wonders and also outdoor activities.

• Highlights: Yosemite National Park, Tioga Pass, Lake Tahoe, Gold Country

Southern California Desert Loop

This route through Southern California’s deserts is perfect for those who love desert landscapes.

• Highlights: Joshua Tree National Park, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Salton Sea, Palm Springs

Best Beach Camping Spots for Surfers

• Refugio State Beach: Popular with great amenities and a mellow right-hand point break.
  
• Carpinteria State Beach: Close to Rincon, offering convenient surf access and charming town vibes.
  
• Emma Wood State Beach: Primitive camping for self-contained vehicles with fun breaks within campsite lounging view.
  
• Leo Carrillo State Beach: Campsites nestled in a canyon with easy beach access for surf sessions.
  
• San Onofre State Beach: Known for its variety of breaks catering to all board riders.
  
• San Elijo State Beach: Offers a variety of breaks right in front of the bluffs, and proximity to iconic Encinitas breaks.

A Few Final Tips

Check out our Guide to Surfing California: For top surf spots, surf seasons, where to go, surf trip costs, transportation, food, and more.

Book early: Popular campgrounds can get booked solid months in advance. Make your campground reservations as soon as possible for the best selection of campsites during high seasons (summer and holidays).

Choosing the right camper van rental for your California road trip can really have an impact on your overall adventure. With options ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious, there’s a camper van to suit every traveler’s needs. 

From Volkswagen campervan rentals for a quick nostalgic weekend trip to renting a van to explore the coast for a month, the choices are as diverse as the landscapes you’ll encounter. With many companies offering camper van rentals, you’re sure to find the perfect vehicle. However, be sure to consider mileage packages, one-way fees, and insurance costs to avoid surprises.

FAQs

* This post was originally an editorial article and is now supported by the companies listed in this guide, so we may earn when you book through a link on our site. There is never an additional cost to you, and as 1% for the Planet members, we donate a portion of our earnings to nonprofits that support our oceans and the environment. We only partner with companies we genuinely like and are a fit for our readers, and all words and opinions are our own. Thank you for supporting Lush Palm – this helps us stay ad-free and continue to create fresh content and helpful guides.

For more California travel inspiration, check out:

Surfing California / Everything You Need to Know >>

Highway 1 Road Trip / A Surfer’s Guide to the California Coast >>

The Best Beach Camping in California for Surfing >>

Camping in California / 11 Tips Every Camper Should Know >>

Pacific Coast Highway Surf Trip / Huntington Beach to Morro Bay >>

Pacific Coast Highway Surf Trip Part 2 / Big Sur >>

And if you’ve ever thought about road tripping around the UK, check out our lowdown on Campervan Hire UK

Happy travels!