$40 Car Rental Downtown Monterey, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Downtown Monterey

Renting a car in Downtown Monterey offers travelers the freedom to explore the area at their own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions like Monterey State Historic Park, Cooper-Molera Adobe, and the Maritime Museum, all located within Downtown Monterey. This flexibility allows you to manage your luggage conveniently and adjust your travel plans as needed. Additionally, having a car makes it simple to venture out to nearby cities, such as Pacific Grove, just 2 miles away, where you can see the Point Pinos Lighthouse and Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary. Seaside, located 3 miles from Downtown Monterey, also offers attractions like Fort Ord Dunes State Park. For those seeking outdoor and scenic experiences, a rental car provides access to beautiful spots along the coastline, enhancing your visit. Whether you're a family looking to easily transport kids and gear, or a couple wanting to enjoy a romantic getaway, renting a car ensures a hassle-free travel experience in and around Downtown Monterey.

Most popular car rentals around Downtown Monterey

• Midsize SUV: This car option is a favorite among travelers in Downtown Monterey, accommodating up to 5 people along with up to 3 large suitcases. It's perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the area comfortably. Midsize SUVs offer ample space for both passengers and luggage, making them ideal for day trips or longer excursions around Monterey.
• Compact: The compact option is another popular choice for those visiting Downtown Monterey. With room for up to 5 travelers and capacity for 3 medium suitcases, this car type suits solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Its smaller size makes it easy to navigate through city streets while still providing enough space for a comfortable journey.
• Economy: For those looking for a budget-friendly choice, the economy car option fits up to 5 travelers and accommodates up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it an excellent pick for solo adventurers, couples, or small families. The economy cars are efficient and easy to park, allowing for a hassle-free experience as you enjoy your time in and around Downtown Monterey.

Top rated car suppliers around Downtown Monterey

• Enterprise: With three rental locations, Enterprise is a top choice for travelers in Downtown Monterey, with the nearest location less than 1 mile away. Known for its friendly service, clean vehicles, and short wait times, Enterprise boasts an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10. Popular options among customers include the Midsize SUV and Fullsize vehicles, making it easy to find a car that suits your needs for exploring the beautiful Monterey area.
• Budget: Located 2 miles away from Downtown Monterey, Budget is a great option for those looking for value. This supplier is known for its selection of Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs, catering to a variety of traveler preferences. With a focus on affordability and convenience, Budget ensures that you can enjoy your trip without breaking the bank while providing a hassle-free rental experience.
• Hertz: Hertz, situated 2 miles from Downtown Monterey, is another popular choice for car rentals. This supplier offers a reliable selection of Midsize SUVs and Fullsize vehicles, making it easy to find the right car for your adventure. With a reputation for quality service and a straightforward rental process, Hertz is well-regarded by travelers seeking flexibility in their travels around the stunning Monterey region.

Where to stay around Downtown Monterey

• Downtown Monterey: Experience the vibrant heart of Monterey, where you can explore picturesque streets, the scenic bay, and the famous Cannery Row. Enjoy a variety of nearby restaurants and wine options that highlight local flavors. With attractions like Fisherman's Wharf and easy access to the beach, Downtown Monterey is perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Pacific Grove: Located just 2 miles from Downtown Monterey, Pacific Grove offers beautiful beaches and charming scenery. This area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring attractions such as the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse and the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary. With a range of dining options and a serene atmosphere, Pacific Grove is a delightful choice for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
• Seaside: Situated 3 miles from Downtown Monterey, Seaside is known for its outdoor activities and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy attractions like Fort Ord Dunes State Park, perfect for adventure seekers. The area also offers shopping and dining options, making it a convenient destination for travelers looking to experience the local culture while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Downtown Monterey

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and desired features. Whether you're looking for an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you're likely to lock in lower rates and enjoy a wider selection, especially during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify age requirements before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional fees. This is often the most favorable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid fueling alternatives, which can also be acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind in case of unforeseen incidents during your trip. It's straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning extensive road trips, search for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Monterey

The best time to rent a car in and around Downtown Monterey is January, when prices and demand are both slightly low. February also offers good value, with average pricing and low demand. From March to May, prices remain average while demand sees a steady increase. However, June through August is the most expensive period, with high demand and slightly high prices, particularly in July and August. Following this peak, September and October return to average pricing with moderate demand.

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