We have great offers for daily, weekly and long term rentals in Monterey. Find the cheapest prices online, for your future Car Hire in Monterey in 4 quick easy steps. Book now at the lowest possible rates only with a small down payment and pay the rest when you pick up the car.

  • Customer benefits:
  • Quality & Expertise
  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

Flexible Booking Process

No need for huge up-front costs. Search for the best deal for you in Monterey and book it with only a small advance payment, you will pay the remaining amount during the car pickup time.

Free Extras & Cancellation

In case your plans change you can cancel or do minor modifications for free up to 48 hours before your rental starts. We will also include all special offers in Monterey and surcharges from our partners on the final price.

Quality & Expertise

We constantly evaluate our partners in the level of service they provide in Monterey so we can ensure the quality of service you will receive.


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Why rent a car in Monterey?

Renting a car in Monterey, California, offers unparalleled flexibility to explore the city's rich historical sites, stunning coastal scenery, and vibrant cultural attractions at your own pace. With a personal vehicle, you can easily access renowned destinations like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and the scenic 17-Mile Drive, all while enjoying the freedom to create your own itinerary.

Beyond the city limits, a rental car allows you to venture into the picturesque landscapes of the Monterey Peninsula and the greater Central Coast region. From the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea to the rugged beauty of Big Sur, having your own transportation ensures you won't miss any of the area's must-see attractions.

Car rental tips for Monterey

  • Monterey Regional Airport offers several car rental agencies conveniently located near the terminal, making it easy to pick up your vehicle upon arrival. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability and competitive rates.
  • While driving in Monterey, be prepared for narrow streets and limited parking spaces in popular areas like Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf. Opting for a smaller vehicle can make manoeuvring and parking more manageable.
  • If you plan to explore the scenic 17-Mile Drive or venture into the mountainous terrain of Big Sur, ensure your rental car is equipped to handle winding roads and varying elevations. Familiarise yourself with the vehicle's features before embarking on these drives.
  • Be aware of local wildlife, such as sea lions and deer, which may occasionally cross roads, especially near coastal areas and parks. Drive cautiously and remain vigilant to avoid any unexpected encounters.

FAQs about renting a car in Monterey

What is the recommended car type/category?

A mid-sized saloon or compact SUV is recommended for navigating Monterey's city streets and coastal highways comfortably. These vehicles offer a good balance of fuel efficiency and space, suitable for both urban driving and excursions to nearby attractions.

What are the parking options?

Monterey offers various parking options, including metered street parking and public parking garages. During peak tourist seasons, parking near popular attractions like Cannery Row and Fisherman's Wharf can be limited, so arriving early or considering alternative transportation options is advisable.

What's the speed limit?

In Monterey, the speed limits are typically 25 mph (40 km/h) in residential areas, 35 mph (56 km/h) on city streets, and up to 65 mph (105 km/h) on motorways. Always adhere to posted speed limits and be cautious of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in busy tourist areas.

Popular attractions

  • Monterey Bay Aquarium: A world-renowned aquarium featuring over 35,000 marine animals and plants, including a living kelp forest and interactive exhibits highlighting the diverse marine life of Monterey Bay.
  • Cannery Row: Once the heart of Monterey's sardine-packing industry, this historic waterfront street is now a bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries, all set against the backdrop of the bay.
  • Fisherman's Wharf: A historic wharf offering a variety of seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and opportunities for whale watching tours, with sea lions often seen lounging nearby.
  • Monterey State Historic Park: A collection of significant historical buildings and sites, including the Custom House and Colton Hall, showcasing Monterey's rich past as California's first capital.
  • Golden State Theatre: A historic theater built in 1926, known for its stunning architecture and hosting a variety of performances and events throughout the year.

More places to visit

  • Carmel-by-the-Sea: A charming coastal town known for its art galleries, unique shops, and beautiful white-sand beaches, just a short drive from Monterey.
  • Big Sur: A rugged stretch of California's coastline offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and iconic landmarks like Bixby Creek Bridge, located south of Monterey along Highway 1.
  • Pebble Beach: Home to the famous 17-Mile Drive, this area features world-class golf courses, luxurious resorts, and stunning ocean vistas.
  • Point Lobos State Natural Reserve: A coastal reserve offering scenic hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and picturesque coves, ideal for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Highly recommended by our customers

All Car Hire Brands in Monterey

Experience the difference with rentals from trusted brands. We focus on quality and customer satisfaction, so you can enjoy every mile of your journey.

10 / 10

National Car Hire

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9.39 / 10

Hertz Car Hire

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Alamo Car Hire

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SIXT Car Hire

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Enterprise Car Hire

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Budget Car Hire

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Europcar Car Hire

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Keddy Car Hire

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Thrifty Car Hire

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AVIS Car Hire

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Firefly Car Hire

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: This company has yet to receive any customer evaluations.

Find a car according to your needs


Small / Economy

You want a small, fuel-efficient vehicle for your trip? We provide a large range of options for you to select from. Save money while still getting a reliable vehicle!

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Hybrid / Electric

A hybrid car rental gives you the option to travel using different kinds of power, save energy, and cut down on emissions. Get where you need to go without constantly stopping for gas.

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Prestige Cars

Renting a luxury car gives you the chance to drive your dream car at an affordable price. This puts you in the driver’s seat of luxury cars from internationally renowned brands.

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Stationwagon / Minibus

You are on a family vacation or group outing? Our minibus and station wagons are perfect for the job. Minivans and 7-9 seaters are designed to provide a comfortable ride for everyone to enjoy.

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Monterey: Most popular locations



The cheapest car rental deals


Displayed prices are the best daily rates found by our customers during the last two weeks. (Subject to change)

Website advantages

  • Destinations in almost every city in the world.
  • Competitive prices from trusted car rental brands
  • Genuine customer evaluation scores for each brand
  • Multilingual website

Customer benefits

  • Free amendments before rental start
  • Free cancellation up to 48h before rental
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Club Member Discount

One ways are supported! You want to pick up your car and return it to a different location, we can do it!

No hidden fees with us! Select your preferences and see the total prices before booking! Any extra fees that may apply because of driver's age or late pick up time selection, will always be included on the total price.

No need for full payment! Book your car with just a small amount and give the rest upon pick up.