Monterey: 17-Mile Drive Guided E-Bike Tour

If you’re dreaming of cruising along one of California’s most iconic coastal routes without the hassle of traffic or a car, the 17-Mile Drive Guided E-Bike Tour could be just what you need. Offered by Big Sur Adventures Inc, this three-hour journey packs in sweeping seaside vistas, encounters with local wildlife, and stops at renowned landmarks—all from the seat of a powerful e-bike.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the e-bike assistance makes tackling the rolling hills of Pebble Beach accessible even for casual cyclists or those with limited fitness. Second, the expert guides share fascinating insights along the way, transforming a scenic ride into a meaningful adventure. However, a potential consideration is the group size, which might mean you’ll need to be comfortable riding amidst other visitors, especially during peak times. This tour seems perfect for travelers who love scenic landscapes, enjoy learning about local wildlife, and want a relaxed yet active way to explore.

Key Points

• E-bike ease: The e-bike setup makes climbing hills effortless, ideal for beginners or those who want a smooth ride.
• Iconic sights: Stops include the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, China Rock, and Spanish Bay Beach.
• Wildlife encounters: Watch for sea otters, sea lions, and seabirds along the coast.
• Expert commentary: Guides share stories about the area’s history, wildlife, and landmarks.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking ocean vistas, lush forests, and luxurious mansions.
• Flexible timing: Tours typically occur in the morning or afternoon, allowing for convenient planning.

The 17-Mile Drive is famous for its postcard-perfect views, but exploring it by e-bike offers a unique, immersive way to experience this stretch of coastline. Unlike a car, where you might miss the details, cycling allows you to relax and take in the environment at your own pace. Plus, it’s a greener way to enjoy the landscape without sacrificing comfort.

We loved the powerful e-bikes, which make ascending hills a breeze, even if you’re not a regular cyclist. This feature broadens the appeal to a wider range of travelers, from families with kids to older visitors. The bikes come with comfortable seats and saddle bags, making it easy to carry water, snacks, or a light jacket. The safety gear and a briefing ensure everyone feels confident before setting off.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at the Big Sur Adventures shop in Pacific Grove, where you’ll pick up your e-bike and meet your guide. From there, the ride starts along the famous 17-Mile Drive, winding through scenic spots and stopping at several key points.

Stops and Highlights

Lone Cypress Tree: No visit is complete without a photo of this iconic, centuries-old tree perched on the rocks. Its rugged resilience makes it a symbol of the area. Several reviews highlight how memorable it is to stand there, camera in hand, soaking in the panoramic views.

Bird Rock: As you roll past, keep an eye out for seabirds nesting and marine mammals in the water. Guides often share stories about local sea lions and sea otters, enhancing the experience with educational tidbits.

China Rock and Spanish Bay Beach: These spots offer perfect photo ops and a chance to feel the soft sands or breathe in the sea air. The smell of sagebrush mixed with saltwater is a simple but memorable sensory detail.

Del Monte Forest: Riding among ancient cypress trees, some over 300 years old, adds a touch of history and tranquility. The lush greenery contrasts beautifully with the ocean’s blue.

Pebble Beach Lodge: The tour typically pauses here for a quick break, where you can enjoy coffee or gelato while gazing over Carmel Bay. It’s a great spot to relax and take in the scenery. Many reviewers rave about the opportunity to sit and reflect on the stunning vistas.

Wildlife Watching

Guides are well-versed in local marine life, and their commentary turns the ride into a mini wildlife tour. Expect to see sea otters, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds, especially if you ride in the right season. One reviewer remarked, “Zane did a fantastic job. His knowledge of biology was excellent on the tour. The scenes he took us to were absolutely beautiful.”

The Ride Experience

The three-hour duration feels just right. It’s enough time to see multiple sights and enjoy some leisure stops without feeling rushed. The pace is comfortable, with some inclines that the e-bike assistance handles effortlessly. The group size tends to be small to medium, creating a friendly, conversational atmosphere.

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Practical Details

The tour costs $79 per person, which we found to be quite reasonable given the includes—e-bike rental, helmet, safety briefing, and water. The guide’s local knowledge really adds value, making each stop informative and engaging. The tour usually runs in the morning or afternoon, so you can plan around your other activities easily.

The meeting point at the Big Sur Adventures shop in Pacific Grove is straightforward, and the process of reserving in advance offers flexible payment options. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, which is handy if your plans change unexpectedly.

Authentic Experiences and Real Reviews

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery. One visitor from the UK called the guide “amazing” and appreciated the relaxed pacing. Another mentioned how the bikes were comfortable, with plenty of space for personal items. Many reviews highlight how the tour is an excellent mix of sightseeing, education, and physical activity.

Some travelers mention riding during windy days, so layering clothing is advisable, especially in early summer. Others appreciate the family-friendly options, like the RadWagon or non-electric bikes, which allow children to join in comfortably. The age restrictions are clear: riders should be at least 16, or 18 to rent without a guardian.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $79, this guided e-bike tour provides a combination of luxury scenery, expert narration, and active exploration at a fair price point. The inclusion of high-quality bikes, helmets, and water means you’re well-equipped without extra costs. When you consider the cost of renting a car, parking fees, or booking a private guide, this tour can be a cost-effective way to experience one of California’s most iconic drives.

The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the guidance ensures you’ll see the best spots without missing out. Plus, it’s a chance to learn about the local marine wildlife and history from a knowledgeable local—something you might not get if you just drive the route alone.

This experience is perfect for travelers who enjoy scenic outdoor activities and want an active yet relaxed way to explore the coast. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a guided experience to enhance their understanding of the area’s natural and cultural features. If you’re a family with older children, or a couple looking for a memorable day out, this tour offers a balance of adventure and education.

It’s also a good pick for less experienced cyclists or those with limited mobility, thanks to the e-bike assistance. However, if you have mobility impairments or aren’t comfortable riding a bike, you might want to consider other options.

While some might prefer a private tour, most will value the social aspect of sharing the ride with others who love beautiful scenery. Also, since the tour is about three hours long, it’s manageable for most day plans and allows for other adventures afterward.

The 17-Mile Drive Guided E-Bike Tour offers an engaging way to see the best of Pebble Beach and Carmel’s coast without the stress of driving. With expert guides, stunning views, and wildlife encounters, it turns a scenic route into an educational and memorable experience.

If you’re after a leisurely, informative ride that combines nature, history, and spectacular scenery, this tour ticks most boxes. It’s especially worthwhile if you enjoy being outdoors, want to get some light exercise, and appreciate expert commentary that enriches the experience.

Overall, it’s a value-packed adventure for those who want to see the coast from a different perspective—on two wheels, with plenty of opportunities to stop, learn, and soak in the beauty.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist to join?
No, you do not need to be an experienced cyclist. The e-bikes make pedaling easier, and the guide provides a safety briefing to ensure you feel comfortable before starting.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended. It’s also smart to bring snacks, water, and possibly a light jacket, especially if it’s windy.

Can children participate?
Most children over 16 can rent and ride the e-bike, provided they meet age requirements. Younger children can join using a RadWagon or non-electric bikes, with toddler seats available.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is suitable for beginners, thanks to the e-bike assistance and the guided support. The pace is relaxed, and the guide explains everything clearly.

How long is the tour and what does it include?
The tour lasts about 3 hours and includes an electric bike rental, helmet, safety briefing, and water. Stops are made at key scenic spots for photos and rest.

Where does the tour meet?
It meets at the Big Sur Adventures shop located at 2106 Sunset Drive, Pacific Grove, CA.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

Is there a maximum group size or is it private?
The tour typically involves small to medium groups, making the experience friendly and engaging. For privacy or special needs, check with the provider beforehand.

This guided e-bike tour offers a delightful blend of scenery, wildlife, history, and active fun—ideal for travelers eager to experience California’s coast in a relaxed, engaging way.

You can check availability for your dates here: