Car Rental at Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) from $43

Reasons to book a car rental at Monterey Airport

Renting a car at Monterey Airport (MRY) is an excellent choice for visitors looking to explore the beautiful surroundings of Monterey. With a rental car, you have the freedom to visit key attractions at your own pace, including Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf, both just 3 miles away. If you're seeking a relaxing day by the sea, Carmel Beach is only 5 miles from the airport. This flexibility allows you to manage your luggage with ease and adapt your travel plans as you go.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to explore nearby cities like Carmel, home to the scenic 17-Mile Drive and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, and Pacific Grove, where you can find the charming Point Pinos Lighthouse. Whether you're a family traveling with children or individuals looking for a friendly experience, having your own vehicle means no waiting for public transport and no rigid schedules. You can truly savor your time in this picturesque region, discovering hidden gems and iconic locations alike.

Most popular car rentals near Monterey Airport

• Midsize SUV: This car is a popular choice for families, couples, or small groups, accommodating up to 5 travelers with space for up to 3 large suitcases. Midsize SUVs provide the versatility and comfort needed for exploring the beautiful attractions around Monterey airport, making it an ideal option for those who value both space and ease of travel.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or families, the compact car option holds up to 5 travelers and can fit up to 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it easy to maneuver around the local sights while still offering sufficient room for luggage. This choice is great for those looking for an efficient and economical way to explore the area.
• Economy: An excellent option for solo travelers or couples, the economy car accommodates up to 5 travelers and carries up to 2 medium suitcases. This car type is budget-friendly and perfect for those looking for a straightforward and efficient way to get around. Its fuel efficiency also makes it a smart choice for longer drives around the scenic region.

Top rated car suppliers near Monterey Airport

• Enterprise: With 3 rental locations, Enterprise is the top choice for travelers at Monterey airport, with the nearest location less than 1 mile away. Known for its friendly service and clean vehicles, Enterprise boasts an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Customers appreciate the short wait times, making the rental process smooth and efficient. The most booked vehicles with Enterprise include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars, catering to various travel needs.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location less than 1 mile from Monterey airport, making it a convenient option for travelers. Known for competitive rates, Budget offers a selection of vehicles that include popular choices like Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs. This supplier is a great option for those looking for good value while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Monterey.
• Hertz: Hertz also features 1 rental location less than 1 mile away from Monterey airport, providing easy access for travelers. With a reputation for quality vehicles, Hertz has options such as Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars that are frequently booked. This supplier is a solid choice for those seeking reliability and convenience during their trip to Monterey.

Where to stay near Monterey Airport

• Monterey: Staying in Monterey places you at the heart of a city renowned for its stunning outdoor and beach experiences. Key attractions include Cannery Row, a vibrant street ideal for city vacationing, and Fisherman's Wharf, a charming jetty pier. With various dining options and local wineries nearby, you'll have plenty of choices to enjoy local cuisine and beverages.
• Carmel: Located 5 miles from Monterey, Carmel is a picturesque city famous for its beautiful beaches and scenic views. Visitors can explore Carmel Beach and the breathtaking 17-Mile Drive, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The area also offers excellent dining and winery experiences, making it an appealing choice for a serene getaway.
• Pacific Grove: Just 4 miles from Monterey, Pacific Grove is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Key points of interest include the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse and the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary, which are both unique cultural experiences. The area features various local restaurants and wineries, ideal for a delightful culinary experience after a day of exploring.

9 tips to save on your Airport car rental near Monterey

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for added space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for additional luggage, utilize Expedia's filters to discover the best fit for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: It's generally advisable to reserve your MRY car rental as early as possible to secure lower rates and a wider selection. Booking 1-3 months ahead is optimal, especially before peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—might have restricted availability. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically less expensive to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid extra fees. This is usually the most economical option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which are acceptable as well—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental agencies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Debit cards are not always accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provides additional peace of mind if something unforeseen occurs during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend a lot of time on the road, look for rental options that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car from Monterey Airport

The best time to rent a car from Monterey Airport is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low, offering great value. February also tends to be quieter, with average prices and low demand. As spring approaches, March to May sees steady demand and average pricing. However, the summer months of June through August bring slightly high prices and high demand, making them the most expensive period for rentals. September and October then return to average pricing and demand, while November reverts to slightly low prices with typical demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
March	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.5°F (12.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
June	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	63.9°F (17.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	64.0°F (17.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
October	61.3°F (16.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
November	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low