Monterey, Big Sur, 17 Mile Drive 3.5 Hour Private Tour

If you’re dreaming of cruising along California’s legendary coastline in style, this private tour covering Monterey, 17 Mile Drive, and Big Sur promises a personalized, flexible experience. Offered by California Pacific Excursions, this trip is tailored for small groups or families who want comfort, exclusivity, and the chance to see some of the most breathtaking scenery the West Coast has to offer, all at their own pace.

Two things we particularly like about this tour are the personalized attention from an expert local driver and the flexibility to customize your stops and timing. It’s not a cookie-cutter bus experience — with just you and your crew, you get the chance to linger at favorite spots or skip the less-interesting parts. One potential thing to consider is that the tour runs around 3.5 hours, so if you’re looking for a full, deep exploration of all sites, this might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of the coast with the comfort of a private vehicle.

This tour is ideal for those seeking intimacy and flexibility — families, couples, or friends who want to avoid large tour groups and enjoy a more relaxed pace. If you’re after stunning views, insider tips from a knowledgeable local guide, and the convenience of door-to-door service, this could be just the experience you need.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests and pace
• Expert local guides provide personalized insights and assistance
• Comfortable luxury vehicle suitable for 1 to 12 travelers
• Includes key scenic stops like 17 Mile Drive, Bixby Bridge, and Rocky Point
• Flexible scheduling with no fixed stops or narration, just what you choose
• Excellent reviews for knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery

What to Expect from the Tour: A Deep Dive

The Convenience of Private Transportation

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is being chauffeured in a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle. We loved the way this removes the hassle of navigating narrow coastal roads, parking, and timing. Your driver is a local who knows the area well, and you can just sit back and enjoy the views without the stress of driving or map-reading. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling with family or friends, and it means you can focus entirely on soaking in the scenery.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll Visit

Stop 1: Pacific Grove (50 Minutes)

Your adventure begins in Pacific Grove, a charming seaside town famous for seasonal flowers blooming along the coast and its historic homes. It’s a peaceful start, and you’ll get to see the Monarch Butterfly Sculpture — a fitting tribute to the area’s natural beauty. The best part? This stop is admission-free, so it gives you a relaxed, scenic introduction to the region.

Stop 2: 17-Mile Drive (1 Hour 30 Minutes)

This famous stretch of road is often considered a must-see, and for good reason. As you cruise along, you’ll pass crashing ocean waves, luxurious mansions, manicured golf courses, and the iconic Lone Cypress — a lone tree clinging to a rocky outcrop that’s become a symbol of the area. The drive includes several photo stops, allowing you to capture the stunning vistas, weather permitting.

Reviews praise the 17 Mile Drive for its beauty, with some noting it’s worth the fee included in your tour. One traveler mentioned that the sites were “brilliant,” and another appreciated the “good guide with detailed explanation,” making the scenery even more meaningful.

Stop in Carmel

Next, you’ll visit Carmel, a quaint town renowned for its art galleries, boutique shops, and delicious restaurants. This is the perfect place to stroll, shop, or grab a leisurely lunch. The tour’s flexibility means you can take your time here; some reviews highlight that extra time in Carmel would have been nice, but the overall experience remains highly positive.

Coastal Drive: Point Lobos, Garrapata State Beach, Rocky Point, and Bixby Bridge

Continuing along Highway 1, the tour hits some iconic spots:

• Bixby Bridge: One of the most photographed bridges in California, it offers a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. The stop here is brief (about 15 minutes), but enough to snap some pictures and enjoy the view.

• Garrapata State Park: A lovely area for a quick look at coastal cliffs and rugged shoreline. Admission is included, giving you a chance to appreciate California’s wild side.

• Rocky Point: Known for its breathtaking coastline, this stop is just 15 minutes, but many travelers find it worthwhile, soaking in the dramatic ocean scenery.

The Experience: What You’ll Value

From reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides make a significant difference. Travelers consistently mention guides like Tina and Carlos as being friendly, informative, and attentive to individual needs. One reviewer shared, “Our driver Tina was fabulous. Very knowledgeable. We highly recommend this excursion,” reflecting the high level of personalized service.

Because it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor the experience, helping you spend more time at your favorite spots or skip those less interesting. This flexibility is especially valuable given the unpredictable weather or your personal interests.

The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Value

At $287 per person, this tour might seem a touch pricey, but considering the private transportation, all fees included, and the personalized service, many see it as excellent value. Large group tours often sacrifice intimacy and flexibility, so for those wanting a more exclusive experience, this price points to a premium but justified offering.

The tour is about 3.5 hours long, which means it’s a good half-day trip. It’s enough to cover the highlights without feeling rushed, but if you want an even deeper experience, you might need to plan additional time on your own.

Benefits of a Small, Private Group

With only your group on board, you won’t be caught behind strangers or following a rigid schedule. The small group size (up to 12) fosters a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for conversation and spontaneous stops. Reviewers have particularly appreciated guides who are friendly and accommodating, making the trip feel more like visiting a knowledgeable friend than a tour guide.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who prioritize comfort, privacy, and flexibility. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with family, friends, or a partner who wants to avoid the hassle of large group tours. Nature lovers who want to linger at scenic spots and avid photographers will also find this tour appealing. And if you’re looking for a personalized way to explore California’s coast, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

In essence, this private Monterey, Big Sur, and 17 Mile Drive tour offers a comfortable, customizable, and scenic experience that suits travelers who value personal attention and flexibility. It delivers the stunning views California is famous for, combined with the convenience of a private vehicle and an experienced local guide. The positive reviews highlight the quality of guides like Tina and Carlos, whose local knowledge and friendly manner elevate the experience from just “pretty scenery” to a memorable journey.

While it’s a bit on the higher end price-wise, the value comes from the exclusivity, flexibility, and expert guidance. Whether you want to tick the famous sights off your list or simply enjoy a relaxing drive along one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines, this tour is a solid choice.

If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates a tailored experience with the comfort of private transportation, this trip is likely to be a highlight of your California adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour accommodates groups of up to 12 people and is family-friendly. The flexible schedule allows you to tailor stops to suit children’s needs.

How long is the total tour time?
The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. The tour allows ample time to explore Carmel for dining.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour requires good weather for the best experience. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour is private and customizable. Your guide will tailor the experience based on your preferences.

What is included in the price?
All fees and taxes, the 17 Mile Drive fee, private transportation, and a local driver guide are included.

Are there any fixed schedules or stops?
No, the tour is unstructured, allowing you to spend more or less time at each site according to your wishes.

How many people can fit in the vehicle?
The luxury car can accommodate 1 to 12 persons comfortably.

Is parking taken care of?
Yes, your driver handles parking, saving you time and effort.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, camera, and any personal items needed for a half-day outing. Lunch is on your own, so plan accordingly.

This private coastal tour offers a beautiful blend of scenery, comfort, and personal service — perfect for those wanting a relaxing yet memorable California coast experience.