Monterey and Carmel’s best guided tours pack big experiences into compact timeframes. Two e-bike options stand out: The 17-Mile Drive tour glides past mansions and coastal vistas, while the Carmel-By-The-Sea route explores charming streets and hidden courtyards. For history buffs, walking tours of Cannery Row and Historic Monterey bring the area’s fascinating past to life. My favorite is the Point Lobos Nature Walk – it’s the perfect way to spot seals, sea otters, and seasonal whales while learning about local ecosystems. All tours maintain small groups and feature guides who know their stuff. Let’s look at what makes each tour special.
Key Points
- The 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour offers a scenic journey through Pebble Beach and the Carmel coastline, with a high traveler recommendation rate.
- The Monterey 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour provides a personalized experience with small group sizes and informative commentary from knowledgeable guides.
- The Original Monterey Walking Tours: Cannery Row offers a 2-hour guided tour highlighting the historical significance of Cannery Row as the “Sardine Capital of the World”.
- The Carmel-By-The-Sea Electric Bike Guided Tour covers key landmarks in Carmel-By-The-Sea and has a high rating with a 94% recommendation rate.
- The Guided 2-Hour Point Lobos Nature Walk provides an immersive exploration of Point Lobos with an experienced guide and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife.
17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour
The 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour takes adventurous travelers on a scenic journey through the iconic landscapes of Pebble Beach and Carmel-by-the-Sea.
This 97% traveler-recommended tour starts in the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, providing access to the region’s most breathtaking viewpoints. Equipped with electric bikes, participants can effortlessly cover more ground with less effort, allowing them to fully enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.
The small group size, capped at 10 travelers, ensures a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides. Guests enjoy free time to explore Pebble Beach, taking in the rugged beauty of the 17-Mile Drive.
The tour includes the use of e-bikes, helmets, and phone holders, making it a convenient and hassle-free way to discover this picturesque region. With a Badge of Excellence award and a low price guarantee, this guided electric bike tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Monterey and Carmel.
Read our full review: 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour Review
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Monterey 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour
Adventurous travelers can embark on a scenic journey through the iconic landscapes of Pebble Beach and Carmel-by-the-Sea with the Monterey 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour.
Rated 4.8 out of 5 by 59 reviewers, this 2-hour excursion offers a personal experience for up to 10 participants. Riders will explore the stunning 17-Mile Drive on electric bicycles, which provide an effortless way to cover more ground.
The tour includes the use of e-bikes, helmets, and valet parking, as well as informative commentary from knowledgeable guides. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation.
Travelers can choose between riders and passengers, and special requests can be accommodated. With safety as a priority, the tour provides Class 2 throttled e-bikes and cargo options for added stability.
Reviewers praise the scenic views, guides, and the ease of the ride, making this tour an ideal way to discover the beauty of the Monterey and Carmel coastline.
Read our full review: Monterey 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour Review
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The Original Monterey Walking Tours : Guided Tours of Cannery Row
For those seeking a more immersive experience in Monterey, the Original Monterey Walking Tours offer guided explorations of the iconic Cannery Row. This unique 2-hour tour takes visitors along the scenic bay, emphasizing the significance of Cannery Row as the “Sardine Capital of the World.”
Led by knowledgeable guides passionate about local history and marine biology, participants learn about the fishing and canning era that once thrived in the area.
The tour starts at 601 Wave Street, with a 10 AM departure, and ends at the Cannery Row Worker Shacks. Along the way, guests enjoy beautiful views of the bay and observe local wildlife like sea lions.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, the experience is personalized and interactive. Wheelchair-accessible and near public transportation, the tours are highly recommended, earning a 100% traveler recommendation across 31 reviews.
Priced at €34.68 per person, the Original Monterey Walking Tours provide an immersive and informative way to discover the rich history and natural beauty of Cannery Row.
Read our full review: The Original Monterey Walking Tours : Guided Tours of Cannery Row Review
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Carmel-By-The-Sea Electric Bike Guided Tour
Exploring the picturesque coastal towns of Monterey and Carmel has never been easier than with the Carmel-By-The-Sea Electric Bike Guided Tour. This under three-hour small-group experience covers more ground comfortably on electric bikes, allowing you to visit landmarks like Tor House, Carmel River State Beach, Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch, and the historic Carmel Mission.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Carmel coastline and charming fairy-tale cottages. The personalized tour, limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, provides a hassle-free experience with included use of electric bikes, helmets, and phone holders.
With 94% of 50 reviews recommending this tour and a 4.8-star rating, it’s no wonder it’s earned a Badge of Excellence.
The tour conveniently departs from and returns to the meeting point in Carmel-By-The-Sea, though parking can be limited. Regardless, this electric bike tour offers an unforgettable way to explore the enchanting coastal communities of Monterey and Carmel.
Read our full review: Carmel-By-The-Sea Electric Bike Guided Tour Review
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The Original Monterey Walking Tours: Guided Tours of Historic Monterey
The Original Monterey Walking Tours offer an engaging and informative way for visitors to uncover the historic treasures of Monterey. Recommended by 93% of travelers and boasting a Badge of Excellence, these 2-hour tours are led by knowledgeable guides who share rich insights into the city’s significance in California’s history.
With a maximum group size of 10, the tours provide an intimate and personalized experience, starting at the Portola statue and ending near Fisherman’s Wharf.
Participants consistently praise the tours for their engaging storytelling and educational value, whether they’re travelers or locals. While some reviews note changes over the years, such as closed buildings, the tours remain a popular option for those seeking an expert-led exploration of Monterey’s past.
Priced from $35 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tours are accessible to a wide range of visitors, including those with mobility needs.
Read our full review: The Original Monterey Walking Tours: Guided Tours of Historic Monterey Review
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Guided 2-Hour Point Lobos Nature Walk
This guided 2-hour Point Lobos Nature Walk offers visitors an immersive exploration of one of Monterey and Carmel’s natural gems.
Led by an experienced guide with over 50 years in the park, the tour provides an engaging and educational narrative as you discover the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of Point Lobos. You’ll have the opportunity to spot otters, seals, deer, and sea lions in their natural habitats while learning about the area’s rich history, geology, and botany.
The small-group experience, limited to just 14 participants, ensures an intimate and personalized adventure.
Departing from a convenient meeting point with free parking, the tour concludes back at the starting location, making it an ideal option for travelers short on time.
Consistently praised by past participants for its breathtaking views, informative lessons, and enjoyable pace, this Point Lobos Nature Walk is a must-do experience when visiting the Monterey and Carmel region.
Read our full review: Guided 2-Hour Point Lobos Nature Walk Review
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Guided 2-Hour Walking Tour in Carmel by the Sea
Visitors seeking a more intimate exploration of Carmel-by-the-Sea can embark on a guided 2-hour walking tour that promises to unveil the town’s charming history and local gems.
This highly-rated tour boasts 95 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, earning a Badge of Excellence. Priced from $35 per person, the experience allows a maximum of 16 travelers for a personalized encounter.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour takes participants to key locations like the First Murphy House, Church of the Wayfarer, Tuck Box, and Hogs Breath Inn. Guests will gain unique insights into Carmel’s past and uncover hidden stories.
The tour begins at the FJØRN Design Studio and ends at the Carmel Art Association, with a start time of 1:30 PM. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
Read our full review: Guided 2-Hour Walking Tour in Carmel by the Sea Review
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Recap
Monterey and Carmel offer a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty, historic landmarks, and charming neighborhoods. From electric bike tours to walking tours, these guided experiences provide an engaging and informative way to discover the highlights of these picturesque coastal destinations. Whether you’re interested in marine life, architecture, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, there’s a guided tour to suit your interests.