Hiring an SUV from San Jose International Airport is one of the best ways to explore California’s Bay Area, tech hubs and scenic coastal routes. With excellent road links to San Francisco, Santa Cruz and the wider Silicon Valley, an SUV offers the comfort, space and practicality needed for city travel as well as trips into surrounding hills, beaches and national parks.
Whether you are visiting the region for work or planning a coastal road trip, booking an SUV gives you extra flexibility and improved driving confidence on highways, inclines and winding routes along the Pacific.
Driving from San Jose Airport
San Jose Airport sits close to major highways including US-101, I-880 and I-280, giving quick access to popular destinations across the Bay Area.
To San Francisco
Around 45 minutes via US-101 or I-280 depending on traffic.
To Santa Cruz
Approximately 40 minutes via CA-17, a scenic route through forested hills where an SUV’s stability is especially useful.
To Silicon Valley hubs
Mountain View, Palo Alto and Cupertino are 15–25 minutes away via US-101 or I-280.
To Big Sur
A two- to three-hour drive south along the coast, known for dramatic cliff views and winding roads.
Road conditions and traffic
Bay Area traffic can be heavy at peak times, especially on weekdays from 07:00–09:00 and 16:00–18:30. Lanes are wide and roads well maintained. Some motorways include toll express lanes which can reduce travel time if used responsibly.
Types of SUVs Available
Compact SUVs
Easy to manoeuvre in city traffic while still offering more room than a standard car.
Midsize SUVs
Balanced for families or long-distance driving with generous cargo space.
Full-size SUVs
Ideal for larger groups, substantial luggage or business travel requiring comfort and space.
AWD and 4x4 options
Perfect for coastal trips, mountain routes or winter conditions in higher elevations.
Hybrid SUVs
Available from selected suppliers for improved fuel efficiency.
Benefits of Hiring with Rhino Car Hire
Clear pricing with no unexpected charges
A range of well-maintained SUVs from trusted airport providers
Flexible pick-up and drop-off times matching flight schedules
Optional extras including GPS, additional drivers, child seats and enhanced insurance
Customer support available throughout your rental period
Booking ahead is recommended, particularly during summer, school holidays and the technology conference seasons when demand for SUVs rises sharply.
Popular SUV-Friendly Routes from San Jose Airport
Pacific Coast Highway
A spectacular drive south past Monterey, Carmel and Big Sur with many viewpoints suited to a comfortable SUV.
Silicon Valley Tech Trail
Visit company headquarters and innovation centres in Mountain View, Palo Alto and Menlo Park.
Wine country around Los Gatos and Saratoga
An SUV makes the hilly vineyards and winding roads more enjoyable and secure.
San Francisco and the Golden Gate
Ideal for exploring the city’s steep hill streets and coastal lookouts.
Redwoods of Henry Cowell State Park
A short drive from Santa Cruz with easy access to forest trails and quiet picnic areas.
Tips for Driving an SUV in the Bay Area
Avoid rush-hour travel when possible, especially around US-101 and I-880
Use express lanes where permitted for faster travel
Parking spaces can be tight in older areas of San Francisco, so choose a compact or midsize SUV if parking is a priority
Familiarise yourself with local toll systems such as FasTrak
Weather is generally mild, but mountain routes can be foggy in the mornings
Start Your Trip with an SUV from San Jose Airport
Hiring an SUV from San Jose Airport makes exploring the Bay Area more comfortable, practical and flexible. Choose your model, secure your dates and enjoy the freedom to travel from the tech cities of Silicon Valley to the rugged beauty of the Pacific Coast.