$59 Car Rental Monterey, CA

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Monterey

Renting a car in Monterey offers travelers unparalleled freedom to explore this beautiful coastal city and its surrounding attractions at their own pace. Whether you're a coastal road tripper, a wine country enthusiast, or an adventurer seeking outdoor experiences, having a rental car makes it easy to manage your luggage and plan flexible travel routes. You can visit iconic spots like Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf, both located in the heart of Monterey, or take a short drive to Asilomar State Beach, just 3 miles away, for a relaxing day by the ocean. The convenience of a car allows you to discover nearby cities like Pacific Grove, only 2 miles from Monterey, where you can enjoy additional attractions such as Point Pinos Lighthouse. Exploring neighborhoods like New Monterey and Downtown Monterey is also effortless, as you can easily navigate to highlights including San Carlos Beach and the Monterey Convention Center. A rental car ensures that you can enjoy the stunning scenery and outdoor activities that Monterey has to offer without the constraints of public transportation, making it an ideal choice for any traveler.

Most popular car rentals in Monterey

• Midsize SUV: This vehicle comfortably accommodates 5 travelers along with up to 3 large suitcases, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups. The midsize SUV offers a perfect balance of space and maneuverability, which is especially useful for exploring the scenic coastal roads and attractions in and around Monterey.
• Standard SUV: With room for 5 travelers and up to 2 medium suitcases, the standard SUV is great for couples, families, or groups looking for a bit more space without sacrificing agility. It's well-suited for adventures that require flexibility and ease of travel, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes Monterey has to offer.
• Fullsize: This option fits 5 travelers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases or 5 medium suitcases, making it ideal for larger families or groups. The fullsize vehicle provides ample space for everyone and their luggage, ensuring a comfortable journey as you navigate through Monterey's charming coastal scenery and attractions with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Monterey

• Enterprise: Enterprise is a popular choice among travelers in Monterey, boasting 2 rental locations in the area. With an overall rating of 7.4 out of 10, it is recognized for its friendly service, short wait times, and clean vehicles. Travelers often prefer their Midsize SUV and Fullsize options, making Enterprise a reliable choice for those looking to explore Monterey and its surroundings at their own pace.
• Budget: Budget operates 1 rental location in Monterey, catering to those who seek affordable and convenient car rental options. Customers frequently choose Midsize SUV and Standard SUV vehicles from Budget, which are well-suited for families or groups. This supplier is known for offering competitive rates, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
• Hertz: Hertz has 1 rental location in the Monterey area, providing a range of vehicles to suit different preferences. Many travelers opt for Midsize and Economy cars, which are ideal for navigating the scenic routes around Monterey. Hertz is appreciated for its straightforward rental process and well-maintained vehicles, ensuring a smooth experience for visitors exploring the beautiful California coast.

Where to go in and around Monterey

• Pacific Grove: Located 2 miles away from Monterey, Pacific Grove offers visitors a charming experience with its stunning outdoor scenery and beautiful beaches. Peak travel times are from April to June and July, making it a vibrant location during these months. Travelers can explore landmarks such as Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf, or visit the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse. With recreational areas and shopping options, Pacific Grove is perfect for those seeking a mix of relaxation and exploration.
• New Monterey: Situated around the area of Monterey, New Monterey is a neighborhood that attracts visitors year-round, peaking from June to August. This area is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views. Key highlights include Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf, along with the beautiful San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater. With various shopping venues and a boardwalk, New Monterey provides a delightful atmosphere for both leisure and adventure.
• Downtown Monterey: Also located around Monterey, Downtown Monterey sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peak times in June to August. This vibrant neighborhood features attractions such as Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf, as well as the Monterey Convention Center for business events. With ample shopping centers and amusement parks, Downtown Monterey is a great spot for travelers looking to enjoy the city’s lively culture and beautiful coastal scenery.

10 tips to save on your Monterey car hire

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you need an SUV for extra space, a convertible for summer adventures, or an economy car to save on costs, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental rates vary based on demand, so it's advisable to make your reservation well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to secure lower prices and have a greater selection, particularly during peak travel seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically less expensive to rent and easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a balanced combination of affordability, 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 luxury models—might not be available. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before making a reservation.
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 extra fees. This is typically the most economical choice. Other options may include full-to-empty or prepaid fueling, which can also be acceptable. Just make sure to return the vehicle empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may make it worthwhile.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies accept only credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can protect you from unexpected expenses and provide peace of mind during your travels. Adding car rental insurance while booking through Expedia is a straightforward process.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you plan on taking long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to avoid additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is required in order to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Monterey

The best time to rent a car in and around Monterey is January, when both prices and demand are slightly low, offering excellent value. February follows closely, maintaining low demand with average pricing. March also presents a good opportunity, with slightly low prices and average demand. In contrast, August stands out as the most expensive month, characterized by high demand and elevated rental rates. July and August are typically the busiest times for car rentals in the area.

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	Slightly Low	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	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

Finding the cheapest car rentals in Monterey

Using our Search Wizard

If the deals that are available on our page do not suit your needs, then enter Monterey into the search wizard at the top of the page. We will compare all the best deals available for your car rental in Monterey and provide you with a list of the cheapest options, with no added fees.

Renting a car in Monterey

Pay at pickup is available, so you don’t have to worry about spending your money until you arrive at your vehicle in Monterey. We partner with reliable partners that guarantee an enjoyable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families. Package your car with a flight or hotel to unlock even more savings from Expedia.

Expected prices in Monterey

Prices are subject to seasonal change depending on when you decide to arrange your car rental but right now you can book from $59.

Flexibility & Cancellation

Most car suppliers offer penalty-free cancellations, so you don’t have to worry about losing money if your plans change. To cancel your booking log into your account through the Trips portal. Click manage booking and cancel this car. If you needed to alter your booking, then you can create a new one once you have canceled.

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Car classes available from Expedia in 2026

The classes of vehicles available will change depending on your chosen location.

• Compact car rentals    
• Convertible car rentals    
• Economy car rentals    
• Fullsize car rentals    
• Luxury car rentals
• Midsize car rentals    
• Mini car rentals    
• Minivan rentals    
• Pickup car rentals    
• Premium car rentals
• Sportscar rentals    
• Standard car rentals    
• SUV rentals    
• Van rentals