Car Rental at Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) from $44

Reasons to book a car rental at Monterey Airport

Renting a car at Monterey Airport (MRY) is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore the beautiful area around Monterey at their own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and enjoy the flexibility to create a travel itinerary that suits your needs. Whether you're interested in visiting the vibrant Cannery Row, located just 3 miles away, or relaxing at Carmel Beach, 5 miles from the airport, having a vehicle allows you to discover these attractions with ease. Fisherman's Wharf, also 3 miles from the airport, offers a charming jetty experience to enjoy. Additionally, you can venture to nearby cities such as Carmel, famous for its stunning 17-Mile Drive and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, or Pacific Grove, home to the Point Pinos Lighthouse and Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary, both just a short drive away. Renting a car not only enhances your sightseeing opportunities but also appeals to those looking for friendly people-related experiences in the area. Overall, a rental car provides the freedom and convenience necessary for a memorable trip around Monterey.

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: Enterprise is a top choice for travelers, featuring 3 rental locations, the nearest of which is less than 1 mile away from Monterey airport. With an overall rating of 7.2 out of 10, this supplier is praised for its friendly service, clean vehicles, and short wait times. The most popular rentals from Enterprise include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize options, making it a versatile choice for various travel needs.
• Budget: Budget offers convenient car rental services with a location situated less than 1 mile from Monterey airport. Known for competitive pricing, this supplier is popular among travelers seeking Midsize SUVs and Standard SUVs. With its focus on value and accessibility, Budget is a reliable option for those looking to explore the region comfortably.
• Hertz: Hertz is another excellent option for car rentals at Monterey airport, with a location also less than 1 mile away. This supplier is well-regarded for its selection of vehicles, primarily Midsize SUVs and Fullsize cars. Travelers appreciate Hertz for its efficient service and quality vehicles, making it a trusted choice for those wanting to enjoy their journey around Monterey.

Where to stay near Monterey Airport

• Monterey: Staying in Monterey offers convenient access to various attractions, including Cannery Row, a vibrant street known for shopping and dining. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful bay and beach scenery, perfect for outdoor activities. With several nearby restaurants and wineries, it's an ideal spot for food enthusiasts seeking a scenic getaway.
• Carmel: Located 5 miles from Monterey, Carmel is renowned for its stunning beaches, particularly Carmel Beach, which is great for relaxation and outdoor activities. The picturesque 17-Mile Drive provides breathtaking coastal views. This charming city is also home to numerous wineries and restaurants, making it a delightful place to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Pacific Grove: Just 4 miles from Monterey, Pacific Grove is a lovely destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary or enjoy the scenic views at Point Pinos Lighthouse. The area boasts a variety of restaurants and wineries, ensuring that guests have plenty of dining options to complement their outdoor adventures.

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 specific features. Whether you’re looking for an SUV for extra room, a convertible for summer drives, or an economy car for additional luggage space, Expedia’s filters can help you discover the ideal match for your journey.
2. Book in advance for some of the best rates: To secure the best rates and a wider selection, it’s generally advisable to book your MRY car rental as early as possible. Aiming to finalize your reservation 1-3 months in advance is especially beneficial 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 luxury models, might have limited availability. This also applies to renters over 70. Always verify the age requirements before finalizing your reservation.
4. Consider a budget-friendly car for savings: Smaller vehicles, such as economy or compact cars, are typically more affordable to rent and easier to park in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals provide 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 must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is usually the most favorable option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid fueling options, which can also be acceptable—just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Know your payment options: Most rental companies necessitate a credit card in the driver’s name for security deposits, and debit cards may not always be accepted.
7. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you steer clear of unexpected expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It’s easy 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, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid incurring extra costs on longer journeys.
9. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver’s license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car from Monterey Airport

The best time to rent a car from Monterey Airport is January and February, when prices are slightly low and demand is moderately low. March also offers similar conditions, making it a good choice. April and May see average prices and a slight increase in demand. Meanwhile, June through August become slightly high in price and demand, with August typically being the most expensive month. Following this, October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

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