A coastal bridge with a mountainous backdrop and a beach.

$26 Cheap Flights to Monterey, CA

Popular airlines to Monterey

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How much is the cheapest flight to Monterey?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $26 for one-way flights and $53 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Frontier Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
United
JetBlue Airways

Find the cheapest month to fly from Columbus (CMH) to San Francisco (SFO)

April is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $200 - $428 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight to Monterey

Flights to Monterey at a glance

Traveling to Monterey is easy, with numerous airlines offering a range of flights to this beautiful destination. Explore various journey times and select the Monterey flight that best fits your schedule as you plan to discover the city's iconic landmarks and charming neighborhoods.

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

Popular airport in Monterey

Monterey is a charming city ideal for vacations focused on outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and beach fun. Many travelers are drawn to Monterey for its family-friendly atmosphere and vibrant city life. The area is conveniently accessible via Monterey Regional Airport, which serves as a key gateway for visitors.

  • Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY): Situated in Monterey County, California, this airport facilitates both domestic and international travel, providing connections to over 100 domestic cities and three international locations. Passengers have the option to upgrade to business or first-class service for enhanced comfort, depending on the airline and specific routes. Notable airlines operating here include United, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.

Top routes to Monterey

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

Cheapest routes to Monterey

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

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

Top airlines with flights to Monterey

  • United: Operating flights to Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), United is responsible for approximately 42% of arrivals in the area. The average fare for a one-way ticket is around $320, with premium cabins potentially including first class depending on the specific route.
  • American Airlines: This carrier also services Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), contributing to about 41% of the arrivals. One-way fares typically hover around $270, and premium service may feature first class based on route selection.
  • Alaska Airlines: Flying to Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), Alaska Airlines accounts for roughly 17% of all arrivals. The average one-way fare is about $250, and their premium cabin offerings may include both business and first class depending on the route.
  • Hawaiian Airlines: Providing service to Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY), Hawaiian Airlines offers average one-way fares of approximately $210, making it a competitive option for travelers heading to Monterey.

Best time to fly to Monterey

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Monterey are January, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Monterey can reach up to 54.5°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 64°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
January52.3°F (11.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$270
February52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$268
March52.9°F (11.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$292
April54.5°F (12.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately High$284
May56.7°F (13.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$249
June60.4°F (15.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$261
July63.0°F (17.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$280
August63.9°F (17.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$266
September64.0°F (17.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$275
October61.3°F (16.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$267
November55.9°F (13.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately Low$275
December51.8°F (11.0°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 Monterey

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Monterey 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 Monterey 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 Monterey flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Monterey

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

  • Public transportation: From Monterey Peninsula Airport, several transportation options are conveniently accessible by car: Monterey Transit Plaza, a bus station, is about 2.9 miles away, while Monterey Seaport, a seaport, is approximately 3.1 miles from the airport. Additionally, Monterey Station, a train station, is located about 4.7 miles away.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Monterey, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Monterey is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Monterey 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 Monterey

  • Pacific Grove: Located 2 miles drive away from Monterey, Pacific Grove is a charming city that beckons outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Visitors can enjoy stunning scenery, with highlights including the picturesque bay, beautiful beaches, and the serene national state park. Popular activities range from golfing to exploring local shops. Notable attractions include Cannery Row, ideal for a city vacation, Fisherman's Wharf, a scenic jetty, and the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse, which offers a glimpse into the area's rich maritime history.
  • Downtown Monterey: Situated around the area of Monterey, Downtown Monterey is a vibrant neighborhood perfect for those seeking outdoor experiences and scenic views. Here, you’ll find a lively shopping area, a bustling mall, and even an amusement park. The picturesque bay and beach are just steps away. Key points of interest include Cannery Row, a must-visit street, Fisherman's Wharf, a charming jetty, and the Monterey Convention Center, which serves as a hub for various business events and conferences.
  • New Monterey: New Monterey is located around the area of Monterey and offers an inviting atmosphere for travelers who appreciate outdoor recreation and beautiful beach settings. The neighborhood features a delightful boardwalk and ample shopping opportunities. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views along the bay and beach. Noteworthy highlights include Cannery Row, a lively street perfect for city exploration, Fisherman's Wharf, a scenic jetty, and San Carlos Beach - The Breakwater, an ideal spot for beach-goers looking to relax by the ocean.

Tips for short-haul flights to Monterey

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 travel-sized toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also helps you avoid the hassle of waiting 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 prior to departure, taking into account potential 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 Monterey

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 allow seat selection for free once online check-in opens, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines even permit seat selection earlier than this.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure for international flights. This allows sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have some extra time, take the opportunity to browse the stores, visit a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge, if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and readily available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Attempt to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Monterey?
Schedule your trip for September if you're looking for a good price on your fare. It's the cheapest month to fly to Monterey. Try to avoid traveling during peak periods such as major public holidays or during big events.
Which US cities have the cheapest flights to Monterey?
Los Angeles, San Diego and New York usually have cheap flights to Monterey. Remember that fares may vary based on factors like demand, holiday periods and number of stopovers.
Which US cities fly direct to Monterey?
You can fly to Monterey without any stops from 64 US cities. To find a nonstop route, use the "Direct flights only" filter when organizing your flights to Monterey on Expedia. Then, compare the options and pick the best departure out of any of these cities:

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

How to find a cheap flight to Monterey?
Book well in advance or search for a cheap flight to Monterey during off-peak months like December and January. Leaving on a Thursday can also save you an average of 16% compared to a Sunday flight.* The Expedia app makes it even easier to know exactly when to book. Just activate the toggle for "Watch prices" and you'll receive a notification 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 Monterey?
While booking in advance is typically the best way to save money, don't worry if your Monterey trip is last minute. You can still get cheap flights to Monterey, especially if your plans have a little wiggle room. Try changing your travel dates, looking at different ticket options or flying out of another hub.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Monterey?
Lock in your flight to Monterey two to four months ahead if you're visiting from an international destination. For domestic travel, the timeframe is around 28 days in advance. Better deals and a greater choice of departure dates, schedules and seating options are just some of the advantages 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 Monterey?
Generally, you can find cheap flights to Monterey on Sundays. You'll save about 8% on average compared to booking on a Friday, which is often the most expensive day for 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 Monterey?
Monterey is connected to 26 airports worldwide through 9 airlines, with Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) as its primary gateway. Pick from these leading airlines to Monterey when organizing your journey:

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

Where do you fly into Monterey?
Monterey's main gateway is Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY). If you're looking for some nearby alternatives when flying to Monterey, consider San Jose, CA (RHV-Reid Hillview), Norman Y. Mineta San Jose Intl. Airport (SJC) or Marina Municipal Airport (OAR). It's also possible to fly to Monterey through Salinas Municipal Airport (SNS).
How far is the airport from central Monterey?
Arriving at Monterey Peninsula Airport (MRY) puts you approximately 2 mi east of central Monterey.
Can I save money by booking a Monterey trip package?
Book a Monterey flight and hotel package deal on Expedia, and you can enjoy significant savings. It's a breeze to bundle your accommodations and flights, and you can also add car rentals and activities to create your own customized Monterey trip. Plus, there's nothing like the convenience of booking everything in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Monterey?
It's usually possible to cancel or change your flight to Monterey. Many airlines let you cancel your ticket for free within 24 hours of making your booking. However, some flights are non-refundable, and airlines may issue you credit for future travel instead of a direct refund. To reserve affordable flights to Monterey with flexible change policies, check the "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters when you search. Need more information? Go to our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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Travel information

Destination airport
San Francisco Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
SFO
Destination city name
San Francisco
Roundtrip price
$53

Trending flights to Monterey

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $26 for one-way flights and $53 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

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