The TSA checkpoint at Monterey Regional Airport opens approximately 90 minutes before the first scheduled departure each day, which typically means a checkpoint open time of around 4:30–5:00 a.m. on most mornings. The checkpoint closes after the last flight of the day, generally by early evening. Because MRY is a smaller regional facility with a single concourse, security lines are characteristically short — most passengers clear the checkpoint in under 10 minutes during normal operations. TSA PreCheck lanes are available at MRY, and eligible passengers are encouraged to enroll to further streamline their experience. The airport recommends arriving at least 90 minutes before domestic departure to allow time for parking, check-in, and screening. For the most current checkpoint hours on any given travel day, contact the airport directly at (831) 648-7000.

Monterey Regional Airport is served by a full range of ground transportation options. Rental cars from Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, and National are available on-site, with counters inside the terminal and vehicles in a lot adjacent to the terminal building. Ride-share services including Uber and Lyft operate from a designated pickup zone on the arrivals level — drivers are directed to a specific staging area to comply with airport transportation network company (TNC) regulations. Taxis are available via the taxi stand at the ground transportation curb. Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) Route 55 connects MRY to downtown Monterey, Cannery Row, and the Monterey Transit Plaza, where riders can transfer to regional routes serving Salinas, Pacific Grove, and Carmel. Bus fare is modest, making MST a budget-friendly option for travelers heading to central Monterey. Several hotels operate courtesy shuttles — confirm availability with your property at booking.

Several hotels are located within 2–5 miles of MRY, offering convenient options for early-morning flights or late arrivals. The Monterey Marriott (350 Calle Principal) in downtown Monterey is approximately 3 miles from the airport and within walking distance of Cannery Row and the waterfront. The Portola Hotel & Spa, also in downtown Monterey adjacent to the Monterey Conference Center, provides upscale accommodations with easy airport access. The Best Western Plus Monterey Inn on Munras Avenue is roughly 2.5 miles from MRY and offers complimentary amenities at a moderate price point. For golfers visiting Pebble Beach, the Inn at Spanish Bay and The Lodge at Pebble Beach are approximately 9 miles from the airport along 17-Mile Drive. Travelers are advised to book well in advance during peak season (June–September) and during events such as the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the Monterey Car Week in August.

As of 2025–2026, three major U.S. carriers operate scheduled nonstop service from MRY. American Airlines flies daily to Los Angeles International (LAX) and Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), providing connections to American's global network of over 350 destinations. United Airlines operates daily nonstop flights to San Francisco International (SFO) and Denver International (DEN), enabling one-stop access to United's extensive domestic and transatlantic routes. Alaska Airlines serves Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA) with daily nonstops and offers seasonal service to LAX. Alaska's Seattle hub connects MRY passengers to Pacific Northwest cities, Hawaii, and Alaska destinations. Schedules and routes are subject to seasonal adjustment; travelers should check airline websites directly for the most current timetables and pricing before booking.