Monterey Regional Airport

Welcome

Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) offers an experience reminiscent of a cozy coastal Fixed Base Operator rather than a bustling commercial hub. Located just 3.5 miles southeast of downtown Monterey, MRY is an entryway to the picturesque locales of Carmel and Big Sur. With a compact structure, passengers find the entire check-in and security process refreshingly swift, often taking less than 10 minutes during off-peak hours. The scenery is unmatched; many flights board via outdoor stairs, providing spectacular bay views and a breath of ocean air as you step onto the tarmac.

At a glance

• Location: 3.5 miles (5.6 km) southeast of downtown Monterey
• Terminals: Main Terminal
• Airlines: United Airlines, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines
• Restaurants: Woody’s at the Airport Restaurant and Bar, Woody’s Cockpit Snack Shop and Bar, Tarpy’s Roadhouse, Starbucks nearby
• Parking options: Long Term ($18/day), Short Term ($30 max/24 hours), and Electric Vehicle Charging ($30/day)
• Transport: Taxi ($3 airport surcharge), Rideshare, and Bus ($2-5, 20-30 mins)

Terminals & layout

The only terminal at Monterey Regional may surprise first-timers with its simplicity and efficiency. Its intimate size allows passengers to breeze through the processes that often cause delays at larger airports. Boarding is usually conducted via outdoor stairs, emphasizing the airport’s laid-back vibe. With limited services post-security, this terminal is designed for swift transitions rather than long layovers.

Getting to and from the city

Reaching the airport is straightforward. Monterey Regional's small size ensures quick access from downtown Monterey in approximately 10-15 minutes by taxi or rideshare, with a $3 airport surcharge for taxis. If you prefer public transportation, the Monterey Salinas Transit (MST) offers bus services ranging from $2-5, taking about 20-30 minutes, provided you avoid early morning and late evening hours when services are sparse.

Traveller essentials

Parking options cater to the various needs of travelers: Long-Term Parking is priced at $18 per day, whereas Short Term offers a premium option at $32 per day. For those driving electric vehicles, charging stations are available at $30 per day. The terminal’s intimate design means you can literally park steps away from the entrance, making the commute from car to gate swift.

Dining & shopping highlights

Dining options at MRY are predominantly defined by Woody’s establishments. Pre-security, Woody’s at the Airport Restaurant and Bar offers a more robust menu and serves as a good holdover spot. Airside, Woody’s Cockpit Snack Shop and Bar provides sandwiches and salads made-to-order. Although there’s no Starbucks in the terminal, those needing coffee might detour to the nearby drive-thru on Canyon Del Rey Blvd and Hwy 68 prior to heading inside. Lastly, the tiny gift shop provides a taste of the region with locally sourced goods for quick souvenirs.

Lounges

Monterey Regional does not feature any lounges, a fact that sometimes surprises travelers accustomed to larger airports. Instead, many use Woody’s at the Airport as an informal lounge, enjoying the runway views and the relative quiet compared to other seating areas.

Insider tips

• Insider: Woody’s at the Airport functions like a lounge; sit down with a drink while you watch your plane taxi.
• Time: Arrive early if checking bags, as TSA lines can swell to over 20 minutes when flights coincide.
• Quiet: The runway-view seats at Woody's offer a scenic escape, ideal for a serene meal pre-security.
• Avoid: Limit post-security eating; food is sparse. Grab a meal at Woody’s or nearby Tarpy’s Roadhouse first.
• Money: Skip short-term parking fees by using the curbside area, and budget more for baggage claim; it can take 20 minutes.
• Local: The small gift shop stocks regional treasures like Monterey County honey and local chocolates.