Car Rental at Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) from $55

Reasons to book a car rental at Monterey Airport

Renting a car at Monterey Airport is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the stunning California coastline, as it provides the freedom to discover attractions at your own pace. With easy luggage management and flexible travel plans, you can embark on your adventure right after arriving. For coastal road trippers, nature lovers, and wine enthusiasts, having a rental car means you can conveniently visit local highlights such as Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf, both located just 3 miles away. If you're interested in a more academic setting, California State University Monterey Bay is only 5 miles from the airport. Additionally, nearby cities like Pacific Grove and Seaside, just 4 and 1 mile away respectively, offer even more experiences with their charming streets and natural beauty. Explore the iconic Point Pinos Lighthouse or enjoy the serene Fort Ord Dunes State Park. With a rental car, you can easily navigate these attractions and make the most of your visit to the beautiful Monterey region, ensuring a friendly and memorable travel experience.

Most popular car rentals near Monterey Airport

• Midsize SUV: The Midsize SUV is one of the most booked options at Monterey airport, accommodating up to 5 travelers along with 3 large suitcases. This makes it an excellent choice for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the beautiful coastal landscapes. With its spacious interior, you can enjoy the freedom of the open road while easily managing your luggage, ensuring a comfortable travel experience.
• Standard SUV: Another popular choice is the Standard SUV, which also fits 5 travelers but can carry up to 2 medium suitcases. This option is perfect for couples, families, or groups who prioritize comfort and flexibility during their trip. Renting a Standard SUV allows you to navigate the scenic routes around Monterey with ease, making it a favored selection among travelers.
• Fullsize: The Fullsize vehicle is ideal for larger families or groups, as it accommodates up to 5 travelers with the capacity for 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases. Its spaciousness ensures that you have ample room for both passengers and luggage, making it a practical choice for those planning longer excursions. This car option is frequently booked by those wanting to make the most of their visit to the Monterey area.

Top rated car suppliers near Monterey Airport

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travelers, boasting 3 rental locations near Monterey airport, with the closest being 0.4 miles away. Known for its friendly service, Enterprise has an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Travelers frequently choose Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles from this supplier, making it a reliable option for families and adventure-seekers alike.
• Budget: Budget offers a convenient rental location just 0.4 miles from Monterey airport, making it an ideal choice for those looking to start their journey quickly. This supplier is favored for its competitive pricing and has a solid selection of vehicles, including Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, catering to various travel needs and preferences.
• Hertz: Hertz features a rental location 0.7 miles away from Monterey airport, providing easy access for travelers. Known for its efficient service, Hertz offers a range of vehicles, with Midsize and Economy cars being the most booked options. This supplier is a great choice for those looking to explore the area without the need for a larger vehicle.

Where to go near Monterey Airport

• Pacific Grove: Located 4 miles away from Monterey, Pacific Grove offers a charming coastal experience with a focus on outdoor activities, beaches, and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore highlights such as the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse and the scenic Cannery Row. This destination is particularly popular from April through July, making it a great time to enjoy the local parks and recreational areas.
• Seaside: Situated just 1 mile from Monterey, Seaside is an inviting city known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor experiences. Key attractions include Fort Ord Dunes State Park and, like Pacific Grove, Cannery Row. The best months to visit are March and June through July, when the weather is ideal for exploring shopping areas and enjoying the scenic waterfront.
• New Monterey: A neighborhood located 3 miles from Monterey, New Monterey is perfect for those seeking a blend of beach and city experiences. You can visit San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater or stroll along the lively Cannery Row. The peak visitation period is from June to August, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the vibrant local culture and beautiful coastal views.

9 tips to save on your Monterey Airport car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search based on vehicle type and specific features. Whether you're looking for an SUV to accommodate extra luggage, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the perfect vehicle for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure the lowest rates and a wider selection, it's generally wise to book your MRY car rental as early as possible. Aim to finalize your reservation 1-3 months ahead, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and availability for certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—could be restricted. This limitation may also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your booking.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, like economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you'll need to return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This option is generally the most advantageous. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling choices, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the vehicle with an empty tank in this scenario.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies require a credit card in the driver's name for security deposits. Be aware that debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help prevent unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind if unforeseen issues arise during your trip. It’s simple to add car rental insurance when you book through Expedia.
8. Check for unlimited mileage: If you plan to spend considerable time on the road, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional costs 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 sees low demand, making it a quiet month for rentals. March presents another good option with slightly low prices and average demand. However, things get busy and pricier in July and August, which are the most expensive months with high demand. September and October follow with average prices but show slightly high demand in October.

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	Slightly Low
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	Slightly Low	Average
June	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	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	Slightly High	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	Average	Average