Monterey Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental 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. With a rental vehicle, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for those seeking outdoor and scenic experiences. From Monterey, you can visit key attractions such as Cannery Row, famous for its vibrant atmosphere, and Fisherman's Wharf, perfect for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. For those interested in motorsport, the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca is also within reach.

Additionally, you can venture to nearby destinations like Pacific Grove, just 3 km away, where you can enjoy the Point Pinos Lighthouse and the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary. Seaside, located 5 km away, offers the Fort Ord Dunes State Park and more of Cannery Row. Exploring Downtown Monterey allows you to discover the Monterey State Historic Park and the Maritime Museum. A rental car ensures you have the convenience to visit these attractions and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery without the limitations of public transport.

Most popular car rentals in Monterey

• Midsize SUV: The most booked option in Monterey, the midsize SUV comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and offers space for up to 3 large suitcases. This makes it an ideal choice for families, couples, or small groups looking to explore the region without sacrificing comfort or luggage capacity. Its versatility allows for easy transitions between urban driving and scenic routes.
• Compact: Popular among various types of travellers, the compact car option is well-suited for up to 5 passengers and can hold up to 3 medium suitcases. This choice strikes a balance between manoeuvrability and practicality, making it perfect for solo explorers, couples, or families who prefer a smaller vehicle that is easy to park and navigate around Monterey.
• Standard SUV: Another highly booked option, the standard SUV accommodates 5 travellers and provides space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This vehicle type is particularly suitable for couples, families, or groups who appreciate slightly more room than a compact car. It combines comfort with the ability to tackle both city streets and rural landscapes with ease.

Top rated car suppliers in Monterey

• Budget: Budget provides excellent value for travellers looking to explore Monterey with ease. With one rental location in the area, they offer a convenient pick-up point. The most popular vehicles from Budget are the Midsize and Standard SUVs, which are ideal for navigating both urban settings and scenic coastal drives. Renting from Budget allows you to manage your luggage comfortably while enjoying the flexibility to adjust your itinerary as you discover Monterey's attractions.
• Alamo Rent A Car: Alamo Rent A Car is another top choice for visitors in Monterey, boasting a single rental location for convenience. Their fleet includes popular models like the Standard and Premium SUVs, perfect for those who desire a bit more space and comfort during their travels. Alamo’s commitment to customer satisfaction ensures that you will have a smooth rental experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the breathtaking scenery and local attractions at your own pace.
• Avis: Avis stands out for those seeking a touch of luxury during their Monterey adventure. With one rental location in the area, Avis offers an easy pick-up process for travellers. Their most booked vehicle is a Luxury car, making it a fantastic option for those wanting an upscale driving experience while exploring the beautiful Californian coastline. Renting from Avis allows you to experience Monterey in style, ensuring a memorable trip.

Where to stay in and around Monterey

• Pacific Grove: Located 3 km from Monterey, Pacific Grove offers a delightful outdoor and beach experience. Known for its scenic beauty, this city features attractions such as the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse and the serene Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary. Visitors can enjoy recreational areas, shopping, and golf, along with nearby dining options including restaurants and wineries. The proximity to the bay and national state park enhances the appeal, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Seaside: Seaside is situated 5 km from Monterey and is ideal for travellers looking for outdoor activities and beach scenery. This city boasts attractions like Fort Ord Dunes State Park, perfect for adventure enthusiasts, as well as the thrilling WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca for motorsport fans. With plenty of shopping areas and dining options, Seaside caters to diverse tastes while providing a vibrant atmosphere. Its connection to nearby beaches and the national state park makes it a great destination during the warmer months.
• Downtown Monterey: Around the heart of Monterey, Downtown Monterey is a bustling neighbourhood that showcases local culture and history. Visitors can explore the Monterey State Historic Park and the Cooper-Molera Adobe, both highlighting the region's rich heritage. With various shopping centres and dining options available, this area is perfect for those wanting to immerse themselves in local life. The bay and beach are easily accessible, making it a prime location for a scenic getaway.

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

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by vehicle type and specific features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer driving, or an economical car for budget-friendly travel, utilise filters on Expedia to help you identify the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary significantly based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you are likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy greater 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 congested 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 types—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years of age. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental agreements may 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 favourable option. Other policies may include full-to-empty or prepaid fuel options, which are acceptable as well. Just ensure that you return the car empty in such cases.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: A surcharge is often applied for picking up your rental car at airports; however, this may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards as a method of payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides added peace of mind if something unexpected occurs during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra costs.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's licence is essential for renting 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 at its lowest. February and March also offer similar advantages, with slightly low prices and average demand. As spring approaches, April sees a rise in prices and demand becoming slightly high. June tends to be the most expensive month, with average demand, while July through August experience slightly high prices and average demand. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.

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	Average	Slightly Low
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	Average	Slightly High
May	56.7°F (13.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	High	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	Average	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	High	Average
November	55.9°F (13.3°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
December	51.8°F (11.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average