Cheap Flights to Carmel, CA

Popular airlines to Carmel

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Alternative airports near Carmel

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight to Carmel

Flights to Carmel at a glance

Traveling to Carmel is easy with a variety of flight options available. You can explore different flight schedules and journey times, allowing you to choose the best flights to Carmel that align with your itinerary for discovering the city's renowned attractions and charming neighborhoods.

  • Major airport near Carmel: Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY)
  • Flights per week: 750+ flights arriving at Carmel airport
  • Number of airlines that fly to Carmel: around 4 carriers

Popular airport near Carmel

Carmel is a charming city perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers seeking scenic getaways. Visitors are drawn to its stunning landscapes, adventurous activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. The closest airport serving Carmel is Monterey Airport, making it an easily accessible destination for travelers.

  • Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY): Situated in Monterey County, California, approximately 5 miles from Carmel, this airport facilitates both domestic and international travel. It provides connections to over 100 domestic locations and 3 international sites. Travelers have the option to enhance their experience by upgrading to first class or business class seating, depending on the airline and route. Notable airlines operating here include United, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.

Top routes to Carmel

  • San Diego (SAN) to Carmel (MRY), with one-way fares starting at around $70
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Carmel (MRY), with one-way airfare from around $90
  • Phoenix (PHX) to Carmel (MRY), with one-way airfare from around $120
  • Seattle (SEA) to Carmel (MRY), with one-way flights starting at around $80
  • Denver (DEN) to Carmel (MRY), with one-way tickets available from around $120

Cheapest routes to Carmel

  • San Diego (SAN) to Carmel (MRY), with budget one-way fares from around $70
  • Seattle (SEA) to Carmel (MRY), with cheap one-way fares from around $80
  • San Francisco (SFO) to Carmel (MRY), with low one-way fares from around $80
  • Los Angeles (LAX) to Carmel (MRY), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $90
  • Portland (PWM/PDX) to Carmel (MRY), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $90

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Carmel

  • United: Offering flights to Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), United makes up about 42% of arrivals in Carmel. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $320, with premium cabin options potentially including first class based on the route.
  • American Airlines: With service to Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), American Airlines accounts for roughly 41% of arrivals in Carmel. Travelers can anticipate an average one-way fare of about $270, with premium cabin options potentially including first class depending on the route.
  • Alaska Airlines: Providing flights to Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), Alaska Airlines is responsible for around 17% of arrivals in Carmel. The average one-way fare is roughly $250, with premium cabin choices possibly including business and first class based on the route.
  • Hawaiian Airlines: Operating flights to Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), Hawaiian Airlines offers an average one-way fare of about $210.

Best time to fly to Carmel

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Carmel are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Carmel can reach up to 53.4°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 61.9°F. For better deals, May usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $249, roughly 8% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? June, August, and October offer average one-way fares of around $264, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$270
February51.8°F (11.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$268
March52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$292
April53.4°F (11.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately High$284
May55.2°F (12.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$249
June58.3°F (14.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$261
July60.1°F (15.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$280
August61.2°F (16.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$266
September61.9°F (16.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$275
October60.1°F (15.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$267
November55.9°F (13.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$275
December52.2°F (11.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$286

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Carmel

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Carmel is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Carmel hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Carmel flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Carmel

Carmel welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Carmel efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Monterey Peninsula Airport, several key transport options are just a short drive away. Monterey Transit Plaza, a bus station, is located about 2.9 miles from the airport, while Monterey Seaport, a seaport, is approximately 3.1 miles away by car. For rail connections, Monterey Station, a train station, is about 4.7 miles from the airport.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Carmel, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Carmel is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Carmel on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Carmel

  • Carmel Highlands: Nestled around the area of Carmel, Carmel Highlands offers breathtaking outdoor experiences with stunning scenery and beautiful beaches. Travelers flock here for its recreational areas, including golf courses that boast picturesque views. Key attractions like Carmel Beach invite you to relax, while the nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is perfect for nature enthusiasts. For a scenic drive, explore the famous 17-Mile Drive, which showcases the coastal beauty of the region, making Carmel Highlands an ideal spot for a tranquil getaway.
  • Pebble Beach: Located 2 miles drive away from Carmel, Pebble Beach is renowned for its striking landscapes and outdoor activities. This charming city is a golfer's paradise, offering world-class courses such as The Links at Spanish Bay. Visitors can also enjoy the beautiful beaches and scenic bays. The iconic 17-Mile Drive winds through Pebble Beach, providing stunning coastal views and access to picturesque spots like Carmel Beach. Whether you’re looking to relax or stay active, Pebble Beach is a great destination for nature lovers.
  • Monterey: Monterey is located 4 miles drive away from Carmel and is a vibrant city known for its rich history and outdoor attractions. Here, you can explore Cannery Row, a bustling street filled with shops and eateries, or take a stroll along Fisherman's Wharf, where the sights and sounds of the bay come alive. With its scenic beaches and lively boardwalk, Monterey offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Don’t miss the Monterey Convention Center, which hosts various events and can cater to business travelers seeking a vibrant atmosphere.

Tips for short-haul flights to Carmel

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's often more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits carefully. This also helps you avoid the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—many short-haul flights may lack in-flight entertainment options. Download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time and consider bringing a book to keep yourself entertained. Be sure to fully charge your devices before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—even for short or domestic flights, it's advisable to arrive at least 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, taking into account traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and save money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Carmel

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often provide complimentary seat selection once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours prior to your flight. Some airlines may allow seat selection even earlier.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, visit a coffee shop, or unwind at your gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin to synchronize your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Carmel?
The cheapest month to fly to Carmel is when there's less demand. Off-peak months are often when you'll find cheap flights. To keep costs down, steer clear of flying during major holidays and school breaks.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Carmel?
Usually, Los Angeles, San Diego and New York have cheap flights to Carmel. However, being flexible is the secret to getting the best prices. Head off during low season or midweek to keep costs down.
Which US cities fly direct to Carmel?
Pick from 64 US cities that have direct flights to Carmel. While booking on Expedia, check the "Direct flights only" box to find nonstop itineraries. Fly to Carmel from any of these leading cities:

  • Los Angeles
  • San Diego
  • New York
  • Seattle
  • Las Vegas

How to find a cheap flight to Carmel?
Book in advance or search for a cheap flight to Carmel during the low season, such as January and February. Leaving on a Thursday could also save you 16% on average compared to a Sunday flight.* The Expedia app makes it even easier to know the right time to book. Just activate the toggle for "Watch prices" and get notified when fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Carmel?
Staying flexible with your travel plans may help you to find last-minute deals on cheap flights to Carmel. To see all the available options, try exploring different ticket types, changing your Carmel vacation dates, flying out of an alternative airport or using another carrier.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Carmel?
Book your flight to Carmel two to four months ahead if you're flying in from an international destination. For domestic travel, the usual timeframe is 28 days in advance. Cheaper fares and a wider variety of departure dates, times and seating options are just a few of the benefits of booking early.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Carmel?
Generally, you can get cheap flights to Carmel on a Sunday. You'll save about 8% on average compared to those who book on a Friday, which is typically the most expensive day to purchase tickets.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Carmel?
There are 9 airlines connecting Carmel with 26 airports globally. The key point of arrival to this city is Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC). Fly with any of these leading airlines to Carmel:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • Alaska Airlines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

Where do you fly into Carmel?
Carmel's main point of arrival is Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY). If you're looking for some nearby alternatives when flying to Carmel, consider San Jose, CA (RHV-Reid Hillview), Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) or Marina Municipal Airport (OAR). You can also opt to fly to Carmel through Salinas Municipal Airport (SNS).
How far is the airport from central Carmel?
Touching down at Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) puts you roughly 5 mi northeast of central Carmel.
Can I save money by booking a Carmel trip package?
Book a Carmel flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you can make significant savings. It's simple to bundle your flight and hotel, and you can even add car rentals and tours to create your own personalized Carmel trip. Plus, there's nothing like the convenience of booking everything in the same place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Carmel?
You can usually cancel or change your flight to Carmel within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some flights are non-refundable. In those cases, you may receive credit for future flights rather than a direct refund. Make sure you check the airline's terms of service in your itinerary for specific details. Use Expedia's "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters during your search to secure cheap flights to Carmel with flexible change policies. To learn more, head to our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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Travel information

Destination airport
Carmel
Destination airport IATA code
MRY

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