Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour From SF

Setting out on a full-day tour from San Francisco to the stunning coastal towns of Monterey and Carmel is a captivating way to experience the beauty of Northern California. Travelers will witness the iconic 17-Mile Drive, explore the vibrant Cannery Row, and discover the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea. With breathtaking ocean views, engaging commentary, and a chance to visit renowned landmarks, this tour promises an unforgettable day filled with scenic wonders and memorable experiences.

Good To Know

• This full-day tour from San Francisco showcases the stunning California coastline, including Monterey, Carmel, and the renowned 17-Mile Drive.
• Highlights of the tour include Pebble Beach, the Lone Cypress, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, with opportunities for shopping and dining.
• The scenic drive along Highway 1 offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and cliffs, as well as glimpses of Silicon Valley tech campuses.
• The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned luxury motor-coach with a maximum of 45 travelers, providing a comfortable and informative experience.
• The tour has received generally positive reviews, with common praise for the scenic views and interesting stops, though some feedback suggests room for improvement in certain areas.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from San Francisco whisks travelers to the stunning coastal destinations of Monterey and Carmel.

The scenic drive along Highway 1 includes the iconic 17-Mile Drive, showcasing Pebble Beach’s pristine golf links and the famous Lone Cypress.

Explore Monterey’s vibrant Cannery Row and the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.

In charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, visitors can browse boutiques and galleries.

The return journey offers views of Silicon Valley’s tech campuses.

Throughout the trip, a professional guide provides engaging commentary, ensuring a comfortable and informative experience for the maximum of 45 travelers.

Itinerary and Stops

The tour begins with a 2-hour stop in Monterey Bay, where visitors can enjoy lunch and explore the area’s attractions. Next, the group will spend 1 hour in the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, browsing boutiques and galleries. The highlight of the day is the 17-Mile Drive, a 1-hour scenic drive with several stops:

Stop	Attraction
Pebble Beach Golf Links	Iconic golf course
Lone Cypress	Famous lone cypress tree
Bird Rock Vista Point	Stunning coastal views

Throughout the route, there will be multiple photo opportunities to capture the breathtaking scenery.

Transportation and Amenities

Transport for this full-day tour is provided by an air-conditioned luxury motor-coach. A professional guide accompanies the group, offering commentary throughout the day.

The tour is limited to a maximum of 45 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience. Gratuities, food, and drinks aren’t included in the tour price.

However, guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. With these amenities, the tour aims to deliver a seamless and informative day exploring the scenic Monterey Peninsula.

Scenic Drive Along Highway 1

As travelers embark on this full-day tour, they’re treated to a scenic drive along the iconic Highway 1, which hugs the rugged California coastline.

This legendary route offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, towering cliffs, and picturesque beaches.

Along the way, the tour makes several stops, including the renowned 17-Mile Drive, where guests can admire the Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach Golf Links, and other scenic vistas.

The drive also provides a glimpse of the tech campuses that dot the landscape of Silicon Valley as the tour returns to San Francisco.

Exploring Monterey’s Attractions

After traversing the scenic 17-Mile Drive, the tour arrives in Monterey, a coastal city renowned for its rich maritime history and vibrant attractions.

Guests will have a 2-hour stop to explore Monterey’s highlights, starting with the famous Cannery Row. This historic district, once the heart of the sardine canning industry, now bustles with shops, restaurants, and the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Visitors can wander the boardwalk, admire the stunning ocean views, and learn about the region’s marine life and conservation efforts at the aquarium.

With ample time to discover Monterey’s charms, the tour continues on to the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Discovering Carmel-by-the-Sea

Departing Monterey, the tour makes its way to the quaint seaside town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Travelers enjoy a 1-hour stop to browse the charming boutiques and art galleries lining the picturesque streets.

Strolling through the town, they’ll discover European-style architecture, hidden courtyards, and a tranquil atmosphere.

The white-sand beach and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean provide the perfect backdrop for photos.

With free time to explore at their own pace, visitors can savor the local cuisine, visit the historic Mission, or simply soak in the relaxed coastal ambiance that defines Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Tech Campuses on the Return Drive

The return drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea offers glimpses of the tech campuses that have transformed Silicon Valley. As the bus winds through the landscape, passengers catch sight of the sprawling headquarters of tech giants like Google, Apple, and Facebook.

Landmark	Highlights
Google	Colorful, whimsical design; extensive amenities for employees
Apple	Futuristic circular building; focus on environmental sustainability
Facebook	Large, modern campus; emphasis on creativity and collaboration

These iconic campuses showcase the innovative spirit and global influence of the region’s technology industry, providing a fitting conclusion to the day’s exploration of California’s natural wonders and cultural attractions.

Reviews and Feedback

What do the reviews and feedback for this full-day tour from San Francisco say?

With over 2,000 reviews and a 4.2-star rating, the tour generally receives positive feedback.

Common highlights include:

1. Scenic views and interesting stops along the way.
2. Mixed experiences with the condition of the bus and the engagement of the driver.
3. Suggestions for more time in Monterey and additional stops along the scenic coastline.
4. The tour provides an enjoyable way to experience the natural beauty and attractions of Monterey, Carmel, and the 17-Mile Drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

You can bring your own food and drinks, but they’re not included in the tour price. The tour provides transportation and commentary, so you’ll need to provide your own sustenance during the day.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?

The tour is primarily conducted in English, but the company may be able to accommodate other language requests if arranged in advance. Travelers should inquire about availability of guides in their preferred language when booking the tour.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for a More Personalized Experience?

The tour has a maximum of 45 travelers, providing a comfortable group size for a more personalized experience. This allows the guide to offer detailed commentary and attend to each passenger’s needs throughout the day.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not explicitly mention senior or student discounts. However, it states a maximum group size of 45 travelers, which may allow for a more personalized experience. Interested customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.

How Early Should I Arrive at the Meeting Point?

The tour company recommends arriving at the meeting point 15-20 minutes early to allow time for check-in and boarding. This ensures you don’t miss the departure and have a smooth start to the day’s activities.

The Sum Up

This scenic day tour from San Francisco to Monterey and Carmel offers a well-curated itinerary showcasing the region’s breathtaking coastal landscapes, historic attractions, and charming local culture. Travelers can expect a memorable experience filled with stunning ocean views, fascinating wildlife, and ample opportunities for exploration and discovery along the iconic 17-Mile Drive and in the quaint seaside towns. An ideal way to take in the natural beauty and rich character of California’s central coast.