Car rental Monterey, CA

Top tips for renting a car in Monterey

Before hitting the roads of Monterey, it pays to get the lay of the land – or rather, the roads! Home to winding coastal drives and scenic highways, here's what you need to know before you set off on an adventure in Monterey, including information about the local road rules, parking options, and toll roads.

What are the road rules and driving conditions in Monterey?

Driving in Monterey, CA, follows standard California traffic laws, with speed limits typically set between 25 and 35 miles per hour (mph) in residential and downtown areas and 55 to 65 mph on highways. Cyclists are common in the area, and drivers must give them at least three feet of space when passing. California is a hands-free state, which means that using a phone while driving without a hands-free device is illegal. In addition to these unique road rules, always adhere to common laws like driving on the right-hand side of the road, obeying road signage, and wearing a seatbelt at all times.

Monterey’s roads can be narrow and full of twists and turns, especially along coastal routes like 17-Mile Drive and the Big Sur Coast Highway. While these drives offer breathtaking views, they also require extra caution, as sharp turns and steep cliffs can reduce visibility. If you're traveling in the colder months, be aware of fog that may roll in suddenly. Always keep a safe distance between your car and the driver in front of you, and use low-beam lights per state recommendations. While rain is quite infrequent in this part of California, when it does happen, roads may become slippery – always exercise the utmost caution and employ defensive driving techniques.

Traffic in Monterey is usually manageable, but it can back up on weekends and during major events such as the Monterey Car Week. Rush hour isn’t as intense as in major cities, but congestion often occurs on Highway 1 and Highway 68 in the mornings and late afternoons during the work week.

What is parking like in Monterey?

Parking in Monterey varies depending on the area, with a mix of street parking, public car lots, and parking garages available throughout town. In popular spots like Cannery Row, Fisherman’s Wharf, and downtown Monterey, parking is limited, particularly on weekends and during the summer. Many street parking spaces are metered and have time limits, typically enforced between 9 AM and 8 PM, though some areas offer free parking after hours.

Public car lots and garages are more flexible options. Popular lots in the downtown area include the Cannery Row Parking Lot (601 Foam Street), Downtown Garage West (340 Tyler Street), and the City of Monterey Public Parking Garage (438 Calle Principal). If you plan on parking in the city center all day, be sure to head down early for your best shot at availability.

Are there toll roads in Monterey?

No, Monterey does not have toll roads – which means you can navigate the area on four wheels freely! Major routes like Highway 1, Highway 68, and Highway 101 are all toll-free. However, some scenic drives in the area, such as 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, command an entry fee for non-residents. If you're visiting the San Francisco Bay Area from Monterey, you may also encounter tolls on bridges like the Golden Gate Bridge or the Bay Bridge.

Are there gas stations and EV chargers in Monterey?

Need gas while you cruise through beautiful Monterey? The city offers plenty of gas stations conveniently located along main roads like Fremont Street, Del Monte Avenue, and Highway 1. It shouldn't be hard to find a place for gas when you're in the city center. But if you plan on branching out and taking one of the area's many coastal drives, consider filling your tank before you leave, as some stretches may only have one or two options available.

Monterey also has a growing network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, making it easy for EV drivers to power up while exploring the city. There are around 95 public charging stations in Monterey, strategically placed throughout the town and its outskirts. Popular locations for charging include downtown, shopping centers, and major hotels – for example, you'll find a handful of Tesla Destination Chargers in the city along Calle Principal, Tyler Street, and Abrego Street.

Do I need to rent a car in Monterey?

Monterey is one destination that truly demands your own set of wheels. It's framed by stunning scenic roads like the Big Sur Coast Highway and 17-Mile Drive, which are best explored at your own pace, so you can stop off at the various parks, beaches, and photo spots along the way. While you could always jump on a guided tour or navigate Monterey's growing public bus system, renting a car is undoubtedly the way to go for travelers who value their sense of freedom.