Car Rentals in Monterey, USA

Reasons to book a car hire in and around Monterey

Renting a car in Monterey offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace. This is particularly beneficial for those wanting to visit key attractions such as Cannery Row, Fisherman's Wharf, and WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, all conveniently located within Monterey. With a rental car, you can manage your luggage easily and adapt your travel plans according to your interests.

Additionally, having a car allows you to venture to nearby destinations like Pacific Grove, just 3 km away, where you can enjoy highlights like Point Pinos Lighthouse and the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary. Seaside, located 5 km from Monterey, features Fort Ord Dunes State Park and the same attractions as Cannery Row, making it a worthy stop. For those staying in Downtown Monterey, the Monterey State Historic Park and the Maritime Museum are easily accessible by car. This convenience makes a rental car an ideal choice for families and adventure seekers alike, ensuring that you can make the most of your time in and around Monterey without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car hires in Monterey

• Midsize SUV: This popular choice accommodates up to 5 travellers and can hold up to 3 large suitcases, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups. Its spacious interior provides comfort for longer journeys, while still being easy to navigate through Monterey's streets. If you're looking for a vehicle that blends space and versatility, a midsize SUV is an excellent option for your travels.
• Compact: Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or families, the compact car option also accommodates 5 travellers with up to 3 medium suitcases. Its smaller size makes it easier to park and manoeuvre in busy areas, while still providing enough room for your luggage. This choice is great for those seeking a balance between efficiency and comfort during their trip in Monterey.
• Standard SUV: Offering accommodation for 5 travellers and the ability to hold up to 2 medium suitcases, the standard SUV is a solid option for couples, families, or groups. It strikes a balance between space and ease, allowing you to explore Monterey and its surroundings with ample room for everyone. This vehicle type is particularly well-suited for those who may require a bit more cargo space without being overly large.

Top rated car suppliers in Monterey

• Budget: With 1 rental location in Monterey, Budget is a popular choice among travellers seeking flexibility. The most booked vehicles include Midsize SUVs and Fullsize SUVs, offering ample space for luggage and comfort for your journey. This supplier is ideal for those looking to explore the stunning coastal attractions at their own pace.
• Avis: Also featuring 1 rental location in the Monterey area, Avis is known for its reliable service and wide selection of vehicles. The Midsize SUV and Standard models are the most popular choices, perfect for navigating the picturesque landscapes of Monterey. Avis ensures a convenient and smooth rental experience for all your travel needs.
• Hertz: With 1 rental location in Monterey, Hertz offers a diverse range of vehicles, including Midsize and Premium options. This supplier is well-regarded for its quality service and reliable vehicles, making it an excellent choice for those wishing to enjoy the beauty of Monterey and its surroundings in comfort and style.

Where to stay in and around Monterey

• Pacific Grove: Located 3 km from Monterey, Pacific Grove is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning beach scenery. The area offers attractions such as the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse and the serene Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary. Enjoy recreational activities amidst beautiful landscapes, as well as local shopping and dining options, including restaurants and wineries. With its proximity to the national state park and scenic bay, Pacific Grove is a delightful choice for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
• Seaside: Situated 5 km from Monterey, Seaside is perfect for visitors looking for outdoor experiences and captivating scenery. Key highlights include Fort Ord Dunes State Park, where you can revel in nature, and the thrilling WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for motorsport fans. The area also features shopping venues and dining options, including wineries and restaurants. Seaside's vibrant atmosphere and beautiful beaches make it a wonderful destination for both adventure seekers and relaxation.
• Downtown Monterey: Encircled by the very essence of Monterey, Downtown Monterey is an engaging neighbourhood offering a mix of cultural and historical experiences. Explore the Monterey State Historic Park and the Cooper-Molera Adobe, both rich in history. The area boasts ample shopping opportunities and restaurants, as well as the fascinating Maritime Museum. With its proximity to the beach and scenic bay, Downtown Monterey provides a lively atmosphere for travellers eager to immerse themselves in local culture.

10 tips to save on your car hire in and around Monterey

1. Use filters to find the right car: Streamline your search by vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for those summer days, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you pinpoint the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it’s advisable to secure your vehicle well in advance of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to access lower rates and enjoy better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle categories—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over the age of 70. Always verify the age requirements before making a reservation.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements require a full-to-full fuel policy, which means you must return the vehicle with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which are acceptable as well; just ensure you return the car with an empty tank in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: There is often a surcharge for collecting your rental car from airports, but this might be justified by the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car hire companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car hire insurance can help you avoid unexpected costs and provides peace of mind should anything unforeseen occur during your trip. It’s straightforward to add car hire insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning lengthy road trips, look for rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary 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 prices are slightly low and demand is minimal. February also offers similar advantages, although demand tends to rise. The months of March and April provide moderate value, with average pricing and demand. However, June sees a spike in prices and demand, making it the most expensive time for rentals. From June through August, prices can remain elevated, while demand peaks in July.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	52.3°F (11.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
February	52.0°F (11.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly Low
March	52.9°F (11.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	54.5°F (12.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Average
June	60.4°F (15.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Low	Slightly High
July	63.0°F (17.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	Average
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	High	Average
October	61.3°F (16.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	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