Monterey Airport Car Rental (MRY)
See real-time prices from 6 car hire companies. Collect your car at arrivals and go.
Quick answer: At Monterey Airport you can compare rental cars from 6 providers. We show prices and terms upfront so you can choose wisely - not just cheaply.
About Renting a Car at Monterey Airport
Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) offers a convenient alternative to San Francisco or LA for those who want to explore California's beautiful central west coast. With 6 rental companies on site, you'll easily find a car ready to drive right upon arrival along the legendary Highway 1. The airport is just 5 km from Monterey city center, making pickup quick and easy.
From the airport, you'll reach Carmel-by-the-Sea in about 10 km (15 minutes) and Big Sur begins about 45 km south along the coast. Pebble Beach and 17-Mile Drive are just 15 minutes' drive away. Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the USA's best, is reached in under 10 minutes from the terminal.
Choose a car with good fuel efficiency - Highway 1 along Big Sur has no gas stations for long stretches. Book in advance during summer months when the Monterey Peninsula is popular and cars run out early. Always bring a jacket - the coast can be chilly even in July.
How many car rental companies are at Monterey airport? There are 6 rental companies at MRY, including the major chains, with desks in the arrivals hall or in direct connection to the terminal. Can I drive Highway 1 to San Francisco from Monterey?
Yes, it's one of California's most beautiful drives. The route is about 190 km and takes 3-4 hours via Highway 1, or about 2 hours via US-101. Is it possible to return the car at another location?
Yes, most rental companies at MRY offer one-way rentals to San Francisco, San Jose, or Los Angeles for an additional fee.
We compare prices from all major providers at Monterey Airport so you can see the total cost upfront - including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
Your 2-Minute Guide to Renting at Monterey Airport
🚗 1) Pick the Right Terms
- Fuel: "Full-to-full" is usually the fairest deal.
- Extra driver: can cost extra - check before booking.
- Automatic: often pricier and in shorter supply.
🪪 2) Bring the Right Documents
- Driver's license (usually held for at least 1 year)
- Passport or national ID
- Credit card in the driver's name for the deposit
📸 3) Drama-Free Pickup
- Film the car from all angles + the dashboard.
- Photograph scratches, wheels and windshield.
- Keep your fuel receipt when returning.
Rental Companies at Monterey Airport
Providers you can compare here (availability varies by date and season).
Essential Info for Renting at Monterey Airport
Practical answers and tips before you book.
✅ Quick Answers ▼
At Monterey Airport you can compare rentals from 6 providers on SmartCarRental. We show prices and terms upfront so you know what you're paying.
- Book 2-4 weeks ahead for better selection and prices.
- Choose "full-to-full" fuel whenever possible.
- Have a credit card in the driver's name ready for the deposit.
🚙 Driving in California (USA) ▼
In California (USA) you drive on the right side.
- Urban speed limit: 40-56 km/h
- Rural roads: 89-105 km/h
- Motorway: 105-129 km/h
- Alcohol limit: 0.8 per mille
🅿️ Parking & Tolls ▼
Parking can be expensive in cities, always check signs for fees.
Road tolls: Check if your rental car has a transponder for easy payment.
Frequently Asked Questions - Car Rental at Monterey Airport
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15-Day Weather Forecast for Monterey Airport
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Check prices from 6 providers at Monterey Airport - pick your dates and see what's available.
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