BEST of Monterey Peninsula & Carmel-by-the-Sea Small Group Tour
22 Reviews
3.23 out of 5 stars Based on 22 reviews collected by Cool San Francisco and TripAdvisor
|
San Francisco, USA
8 to 10 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Overview
Discover California’s coastal magic on this full-day small-group tour from San Francisco. Cruise the legendary Pacific Coast Highway in a brand-new high-top van capped at 12 passengers, soaking up dramatic ocean views and stories of maritime history. Enjoy two hours in Monterey to explore Cannery Row, savor fresh seafood, or visit the world-famous aquarium. Then wind through the exclusive 17-Mile Drive with stops at Bird Rock, the Lone Cypress, and Pebble Beach Golf Links. Wrap up your day in Carmel-by-the-sea, browsing upscale boutiques and wine tasting rooms in a storybook setting. With expert commentary, scenic stops, and relaxed elegance, this coastal escape is the perfect blend of beauty, culture, and charm!
What's Included
- Admission tickets for 17-Mile Drive, Bird Rock Vista Point, Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Water and light snacks
- Brand-New High-Top Vans Capped at 12 Passengers
- Friendly and Professional Guides
- Gratuities (10% - 20% recommended)
- Meals, Food, and Beverages
- Any expenses are not listed in Fee Included
Meeting Location
Meeting point
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
San Francisco (Pass By)
Your coastal escape begins as you step aboard a luxury coach in the heart of San Francisco, ready to trace the legendary Pacific Coast Highway. This world-famous route hugs the rugged California shoreline, revealing jaw-dropping views of windswept cliffs, crashing surf, and endless ocean horizons. With every turn, the landscape unfolds like a living postcard — dramatic, wild, and unforgettable. Let your guide handle the driving while you relax, snap photos, and soak in the raw beauty of the Pacific. From charming seaside towns to historic landmarks, this scenic journey sets the tone for a day filled with coastal wonder.
Pigeon Point Light Station
Pigeon Point Light Station
Tallest lighthouse on the west Coast of the United States. It is still an active Coast Guard aid to navigation. Explore the lighthouse or a quick walk down to the beach. 20 minutes
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Lovers Point (Pass By)
Monterey Bay and Lovers Point (Pass By)
As your guide glides around the stunning Monterey Peninsula, feast your eyes on sweeping views of Monterey Bay—one of California’s most vibrant marine ecosystems. From the kelp-draped shallows to the deep submarine canyon teeming with life, this stretch of coastline is a living postcard. The bay spans from Santa Cruz to Monterey, shimmering with sapphire waters and framed by untouched shoreline. Your guide will share captivating insights into the region’s oceanographic significance and its legacy in the fishing industry. With every curve of the road, you’ll discover new angles for breathtaking photos—so keep your camera ready for this unforgettable coastal showcase.
Cannery Row
Cannery Row
Step into the heart of Monterey with a two-hour stop at the legendary Cannery Row—once a sardine-packing hub, now a vibrant waterfront haven. Stroll the historic boardwalk lined with oceanfront restaurants, quirky boutiques, and art-filled galleries. Savor fresh seafood with bay views, sip coffee at a cozy café, or dive into the wonders of the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium (admission not included). Whether you're snapping photos of the sparkling shoreline or soaking up the laid-back charm, Cannery Row offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty. It’s no wonder this iconic street is the crown jewel of California’s Central Coast
1.5 hours • Admission Ticket Free
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
17-Mile Drive
17-Mile Drive
Prepare to be swept away by the breathtaking beauty of the 17-Mile Drive—one of the world’s most iconic coastal routes. Winding through the exclusive enclave of Pebble Beach, this scenic journey unveils dramatic cliffs, windswept cypress forests, and lavish oceanfront estates. Your guide will point out legendary landmarks like the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Golf Links as we make several stops for unforgettable photos and fresh coastal air. From crashing surf to serene coves, every mile feels cinematic. Seasonal closures may occur during major events like the PGA Tour or the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, but your guide will ensure a seamless experience. This legendary loop through Del Monte Forest offers a front-row seat to California’s coastal splendor.
1 hour • Admission Ticket Included
1 hour • Admission Ticket Included
Bird Rock Vista Point
Bird Rock Vista Point
A dazzling stop along the iconic 17-Mile Drive—offers a front-row seat to California’s coastal wildlife spectacle. Once cloaked in guano (seabird droppings), this offshore rock now hosts sunbathing sea lions, playful harbor seals, and a flurry of seabirds like pelicans, cormorants, and gulls. Step off the coach and spend 15 unforgettable minutes immersed in nature’s symphony—waves crashing, sea lions barking, birds soaring. Your guide will unveil the rock’s quirky ecological transformation and the vibrant life it now supports. With sweeping views of the Pacific and dramatic rock formations, it’s a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s paradise
Stop: 15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Lone Cypress
Lone Cypress
Pause for a powerful moment at the Lone Cypress—one of the most photographed trees in North America. Clinging to a granite outcrop above the Pacific, this 250-year-old Monterey Cypress stands as a breathtaking symbol of resilience, having weathered centuries of storms, sea spray, and time itself. Nestled between two world-famous golf courses, it’s a living icon of the California coast. You’ll have 15 minutes to walk around, capture stunning photos, and feel the quiet majesty of this solitary sentinel. With its dramatic setting and timeless beauty, the Lone Cypress is a must-see highlight of the 17-Mile Drive.
15 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Pebble Beach, California Usa
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Pebble Beach Golf Links is more than a golf course—it's a pilgrimage for lovers of beauty, sport, and history. Perched on California’s rugged Monterey Peninsula, this legendary public course offers jaw-dropping views of Carmel Bay and the Pacific Ocean. In just 15 minutes, you can stroll past windswept fairways, peek into the storied clubhouse, and browse the upscale golf shop. Even non-golfers are swept away by the cliffside greens, iconic holes like the par-3 7th and par-5 18th, and the chance to spot seals and sea lions basking nearby. Host to five U.S. Opens and countless PGA Tour moments, Pebble Beach is a bucket-list destination where elegance meets wild coastal drama.
30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Carmel-by-the-Sea (Pass By)
Carmel-by-the-Sea (Pass By）
As your coastal journey draws to a close, settle in for a scenic drive through the enchanting village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Nestled on the Monterey Peninsula, this fairytale town is a tapestry of whimsical cottages, windswept cypress trees, and golden beaches kissed by Pacific sunsets. Though we won’t stop, your guide will unveil Carmel’s hidden gems—from the historic Carmel Mission to the breathtaking Bluff Path that hugs the shoreline. With its storybook charm, vibrant art galleries, and upscale boutiques tucked into leafy courtyards, Carmel offers a dreamy finale to your adventure. It’s not just a drive—it’s a glimpse into one of California’s most magical coastal treasures.
Carmel Plaza
Carmel Plaza
Your final stop is the chic Carmel Plaza, an upscale outdoor haven nestled in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Spend two leisurely hours exploring a curated mix of luxury boutiques, gourmet shops, and wellness studios. Sip world-class wines in one of three tasting rooms, savor globally inspired cuisine—from East/West fusion to rustic French fare—and unwind in lush garden courtyards. With its relaxed elegance and coastal charm, Carmel Plaza offers the perfect setting to reflect on your journey and indulge in a little self-care before heading back to San Francisco. Whether you're shopping for one-of-a-kind fashion or simply soaking in the ambiance, this refined destination is a memorable finale to your day.
1.5 hours • Admission Ticket Free
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant travelers may join if they are under 24 weeks pregnant by the end of the trip.
- Please double-check your booking details (name and contact info), as any errors may result in additional personal costs.
- You must contact the tour operator at least 3 days prior to the departure date to provide the pick-up location. If no information is received by the deadline, the default pick-up location and time will be automatically assigned:
- Tickets and Admission Policy: Third-party attraction tickets or city passes are not accepted for participation in the tour. All admission tickets must be purchased either during booking or directly from your tour guide on the day of the tour.
- For a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend bringing comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, and drinks for hydration.
- Children under 6 may require a booster seat by law. When traveling on the minivans or vans, booster seats may be needed. Please contact the tour operator in advance if needed. Rental service is also available upon request.
- For safety and communication purposes during the trip, a valid and reachable phone number is required for participants.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
(7)Q: What is the cancellation policy for the BEST of Monterey Peninsula & Carmel-by-the-Sea Small Group Tour?
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-132218P130
Traveler Photos
Reviews
3.23
22 reviews
Average 3.23 out of 5 stars based on 22 traveler reviews collected by Cool San Francisco and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
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Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (7)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool San Francisco customers.
Filter by:
Q:
What is the cancellation policy for the BEST of Monterey Peninsula & Carmel-by-the-Sea Small Group Tour?
A:Apr 2025
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (PDT).
- This tour requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Q:
What's included in the price?
A:
Apr 2025
The following is included:
- Admission tickets for 17-Mile Drive, Bird Rock Vista Point, Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach Golf Links.
- Water and light snacks.
- Brand-New High-Top Vans Capped at 12 Passengers.
- Friendly and Professional Guides.
The following is NOT included:
- Gratuities (10% - 20% recommended).
- Meals, Food, and Beverages.
- Any expenses are not listed in Fee Included.
Q:
What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:
This tour requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q:
What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..
Apr 2025
Q:
My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:
If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025
Q:
Is this an accessible tour?
A:Apr 2025
Accessibility information for the BEST of Monterey Peninsula & Carmel-by-the-Sea Small Group Tour is as follows:
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Q:
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for BEST of Monterey Peninsula & Carmel-by-the-Sea Small Group Tour will be included in your confirmation email from Cool San Francisco. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Admission tickets for 17-Mile Drive, Bird Rock Vista Point, Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Water and light snacks
- Brand-New High-Top Vans Capped at 12 Passengers
- Friendly and Professional Guides
- Gratuities (10% - 20% recommended)
- Meals, Food, and Beverages
- Any expenses are not listed in Fee Included
Additional Info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant travelers may join if they are under 24 weeks pregnant by the end of the trip.
- Please double-check your booking details (name and contact info), as any errors may result in additional personal costs.
- You must contact the tour operator at least 3 days prior to the departure date to provide the pick-up location. If no information is received by the deadline, the default pick-up location and time will be automatically assigned:
- Tickets and Admission Policy: Third-party attraction tickets or city passes are not accepted for participation in the tour. All admission tickets must be purchased either during booking or directly from your tour guide on the day of the tour.
- For a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend bringing comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, and drinks for hydration.
- Children under 6 may require a booster seat by law. When traveling on the minivans or vans, booster seats may be needed. Please contact the tour operator in advance if needed. Rental service is also available upon request.
- For safety and communication purposes during the trip, a valid and reachable phone number is required for participants.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
