The Big Sur & 17-Mile Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour is a captivating way to explore one of California’s most picturesque coastal regions. Travelers can enjoy the natural wonders and architectural marvels of the area, all while enjoying the flexibility of a self-guided experience. With detailed maps, curated images, and insightful narration, the tour allows visitors to discover iconic destinations like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Hearst Castle at their own pace. But there’s more to this journey than meets the eye – the tour’s hidden gems just might surprise even the most seasoned explorer.
Key Points
- This self-guided audio driving tour allows you to explore the scenic wonders of Big Sur and the 17-Mile Drive at your own pace.
- The tour features narrated commentary, a detailed map, and curated images to enhance the driving experience.
- Key stops include the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Hearst Castle, Asilomar State Beach, Lone Cypress, and Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
- The tour offers a flexible schedule, allowing you to start at various entry points and revisit the route multiple times.
- The discounted price of $19.99 per person and the free cancellation policy provide a convenient and hassle-free booking experience.
Tour Features
The self-guided audio driving tour provides an app-based experience with narrated commentary, a detailed map, and curated images to enhance the journey.
Using the Action Tour Guide app and a unique password, travelers can embark on this flexible tour on any day, revisiting it multiple times within a year.
The tour is designed for a shared listening experience, with one tour per car.
Whether you’re starting at the Monterey Bay Aquarium or exploring the beautiful Carmel-by-the-Sea, the app will guide you every step of the way, ensuring you don’t miss any of the scenic wonders along the 17-Mile Drive and Big Sur.
With helpful tips and practical information, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Key Stops
Along the scenic 17-Mile Drive and Big Sur route, travelers will encounter a captivating array of key stops that showcase the region’s natural wonders and historic landmarks.
From the mesmerizing views at Monterey Bay Aquarium to the majestic Hearst Castle, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and history of this remarkable coastal landscape.
Adventurers can explore the serene shores of Asilomar State Beach, witness the iconic Lone Cypress, and marvel at the dramatic cliffs of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve.
Further south, the graceful Bixby Creek Bridge and the cascading McWay Falls provide breathtaking backdrops for unforgettable memories.
With so much to discover, the self-guided tour ensures travelers can enjoy the splendor of this iconic California destination.
Highlights
Exploring the region’s marine wonders starts at the captivating Monterey Bay Aquarium, where visitors can discover the diverse array of aquatic life thriving in this coastal ecosystem. Perched on the edge of the Monterey Peninsula, the aquarium offers an immersive glimpse into the underwater world, from the kelp forests teeming with vibrant marine life to the awe-inspiring Monterey Bay itself.
Further down the coast, the tour leads travelers to the opulent Hearst Castle, a grand estate once owned by media tycoon William Randolph Hearst. This architectural marvel showcases the extravagance of the early 20th century, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore the grand rooms, ornate gardens, and breathtaking vistas.
Throughout the journey, the tour also highlights the serene beauty of Asilomar State Beach and the iconic Lone Cypress, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of the region’s natural and historic wonders.
Practical Information
Travelers can start the tour at various entry points along the route, allowing them to customize their experience. After downloading the Action Tour Guide app and entering the unique password provided, users must ensure a strong Wi-Fi or data connection for the initial setup.
Should any assistance be needed during the tour, guests can conveniently call, chat, or email the tour operators.
The tour offers several practical advantages:
- Flexible schedule – the tour can be used on any day, multiple times within a year.
- One tour per car, ensuring a shared listening experience.
- Discounted price of $19.99 per person, with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Booking Details
The tour offers a discounted price of $19.99 per person, allowing travelers to save up to 20% on their booking. Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in their planning. On top of that, the tour is valid for 365 days from the first activation, giving ample time to embark on the journey. Travelers also benefit from a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring peace of mind.
| Booking Details | ||
|---|---|---|
| Discounted Price | Reservation Policy | Cancellation Policy |
| $19.99 per person | Reserve now, pay later | Free up to 24 hours |
| Up to 20% savings | Valid for 365 days | Ensure peace of mind |
Monterey Bay Aquarium
At the Monterey Bay Aquarium, visitors can enjoy the wonders of the Pacific Ocean, marveling at the diverse marine life on display. From the captivating kelp forest exhibit to the mesmerizing jellyfish gallery, the aquarium offers a captivating journey through the underwater realm.
The highlights of the aquarium include:
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Observing the graceful movements of the sea otters as they float on their backs, using their sensitive paws to groom and eat.
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Witnessing the awe-inspiring feeding of the gigantic Pacific bluefin tuna, which can grow up to 10 feet in length.
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Exploring the touch pools, where visitors can gently interact with and learn about starfish, sea urchins, and other tide pool creatures.
Hearst Castle
After exploring the wonders of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, visitors can journey to the magnificent Hearst Castle, a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the early 20th century.
Perched atop a hilltop overlooking the stunning California coastline, this palatial estate was the vision of media mogul William Randolph Hearst, who commissioned its construction over several decades to create a lavish retreat for his family and guests.
Guests can wander through the ornate rooms, marvel at the vast art collection, and imagine the extravagant parties that once took place here.
From the grand outdoor Neptune Pool to the stunning indoor Roman Pool, Hearst Castle offers a glimpse into the wealth and excess of a bygone era.
McWay Falls
Nestled within the rugged terrain of Big Sur, the magnificent McWay Falls cascades an impressive 80 feet down a sheer granite cliff, plunging directly into the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean below. This breathtaking natural wonder, one of the most photographed sites along the California coastline, has captivated visitors for generations with its ethereal beauty and serene setting.
When exploring the McWay Falls, visitors can:
- Enjoy the stunning views from the designated overlook, gazing in awe at the waterfall’s graceful descent.
- Hike down to the beach below for a closer encounter with the falls, surrounded by the rugged coastline.
- Capture the perfect photograph to commemorate their visit to this iconic Big Sur landmark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the Tour Be Used on Rented/Borrowed Vehicles?
The tour can be used on rented or borrowed vehicles. The audio and maps are accessible through the app, so users can enjoy the driving tour experience regardless of which car they’re using.
Are There Any Special Requirements for the App Setup?
The app requires a strong Wi-Fi or data connection during the initial setup. Users will need to download the Action Tour Guide app and enter a unique password to access the self-guided audio tour. This ensures a seamless and reliable experience.
Is There an Option to Buy the Tour for a Group?
Yes, the tour offers a group option. Customers can purchase the tour for a whole car, allowing multiple people to share the listening experience. This is a convenient way to explore the scenic wonders together.
How Long Does the Entire Tour Typically Take to Complete?
The entire self-guided audio driving tour typically takes about 4-6 hours to complete, depending on the pace and time spent at each stop. Travelers can adjust the duration by spending more or less time at the various highlights along the way.
Are There Any Physical Elements Along the Tour Route?
The tour route features several physical elements, including the iconic Lone Cypress, Bixby Creek Bridge, and Hearst Castle. Visitors can also explore state beaches, lighthouses, and scenic viewpoints along the way.
Recap
The Big Sur & 17-Mile Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour offers a flexible and immersive way to explore the stunning coastal region.
With detailed maps, curated images, and insightful narration, travelers can discover the area’s marine wonders, coastal ecosystems, and architectural marvels at their own pace.
Whether you’re visiting the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Hearst Castle, or Asilomar State Beach, this tour provides a discounted and convenient option to make the most of your coastal adventure.
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