Monterey, 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, & Carmel Private Tour

Discover the breathtaking beauty of California’s central coast on this private tour. Guests will experience the picturesque seaside towns of Monterey and Carmel, as well as the iconic 17-Mile Drive, showcasing stunning ocean vistas, luxury golf courses, and the famous Lone Cypress tree. With two hours to explore each destination, travelers can delight in fresh seafood, browse art galleries, and enjoy the charming ambiance. This exclusive day trip offers the perfect blend of scenic splendor and local flavor, all within the comfort of a private vehicle. What awaits around the next bend?

Key Points

• This private day trip from San Francisco takes visitors to explore the scenic highlights of Monterey, the 17-Mile Drive, and the charming town of Carmel.
• Attractions include Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and the iconic Lone Cypress along the renowned 17-Mile Drive scenic route.
• The tour also includes a stop in Gilroy, known as the "Garlic Capital of the World," offering unique culinary experiences.
• The tour is operated by A Taste of SF Tours, providing an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, and pickup from San Francisco or nearby locations.
• The tour is highly rated by previous travelers for its professionalism, knowledgeable guides, and exceptional sightseeing experience in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Overview of the Tour

This private day trip from San Francisco takes visitors on a scenic journey to explore the highlights of Monterey and Carmel.

The tour covers 2 hours in Monterey, 2 hours in Carmel, the renowned 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, and a stop at Gilroy – the "Garlic Capital of the World."

Operated by A Taste of SF Tours, the experience provides an air-conditioned vehicle, bottled water, the 17-mile drive fee, and gratuity.

Pickup is available from San Francisco or nearby locations, with a start time of 8:00 AM.

The private tour ensures participants exclusively experience the destinations with their own group.

Highlights in Monterey

Monterey, a picturesque coastal city, offers a wealth of attractions for visitors during the tour.

The tour first stops at Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf, a historic harbor bustling with seafood eateries, souvenir shops, and street performers. Visitors can stroll along the wharf, watching seals and sea lions while enjoying fresh local seafood.

The tour then continues to Cannery Row, immortalized in John Steinbeck’s novels. This former sardine-canning district now houses boutiques, galleries, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the city’s top attractions.

With its vast collection of marine life and educational exhibits, the aquarium provides an immersive experience that showcases the wonders of the Pacific Ocean.

Scenic 17-Mile Drive

After leaving Monterey, the tour winds its way through the breathtaking Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove region along the renowned 17-Mile Drive.

This scenic route showcases the dramatic coastline, towering cypress trees, and exclusive golf courses of the Monterey Peninsula. Travelers will stop at multiple scenic vantage points to admire the rugged beauty of the California coast, including the iconic Lone Cypress tree, a 250-year-old cypress that has become a symbol of the region.

The tour also passes by mansions, luxury resorts, and the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links, home to the prestigious annual PGA Tour event.

Exploring Carmel-by-the-Sea

After traversing the breathtaking 17-Mile Drive, the tour arrives in the charming town of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Nestled along the rugged Monterey Peninsula, Carmel is a picturesque destination known for its quaint cottages, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants.

Visitors can:

• Stroll through the town’s pedestrian-friendly streets, admiring the beautifully landscaped homes and gardens.
• Browse the numerous art galleries, showcasing a diverse range of paintings, sculptures, and handcrafted goods.
• Indulge in the town’s culinary delights, from fresh seafood to artisanal bakeries and cozy cafes.

With its enchanting atmosphere and abundance of things to see and do, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a delightful contrast to the scenic grandeur of the 17-Mile Drive.

The Garlic Capital of the World

Gilroy, the self-proclaimed "Garlic Capital of the World," awaits visitors at the end of the tour. This unassuming town south of San Francisco is renowned for its annual Garlic Festival, where garlic-infused dishes, drinks, and even ice cream draw thousands of enthusiasts.

Beyond the festival, Gilroy offers a chance to explore its historic downtown, browse local shops, and sample the town’s ubiquitous garlic products. Visitors can stop by the Gilroy Visitor Center to learn more about the town’s agricultural heritage and the importance of garlic in its culture and economy.

Whether you’re a garlic lover or simply curious, a stop in Gilroy provides a flavorful conclusion to the day’s sightseeing.

Pickup and Meeting Details

The tour begins with pickup from your home or hotel in San Francisco or south of the city. The start time is 8:00 AM, so be ready for an early start to the day.

To ensure a seamless experience, it’s best to contact the tour operator in advance to discuss your pickup options. The tour is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized and flexible itinerary.

The vehicle is air-conditioned, and bottled water is provided, ensuring your comfort throughout the journey.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this tour offers a convenient way to explore the stunning Monterey and Carmel regions.

Tour Policies and Accessibility

Confirmation for the tour is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed. The tour is near public transportation, and most travelers can participate.

This is a private tour, so only your group will be involved. The price for the tour is $1,199.00 per group (up to 6 people), with a low-price guarantee.

Customers can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience starts, and there’s a reserve now, pay later option available.

Based on the 2 total reviews, the tour has a rating of 5.0 stars, with positive feedback on the professionalism and knowledge of the tour guides.

Ratings and Feedback

Boasting an impressive overall rating of 5.0 stars from 2 reviews, the Monterey and 17-Mile Drive Private Tour earns high praise for its professional and knowledgeable tour guides.

Travelers consistently highlight the tour’s prompt communication and informative nature as notable experiences.

The tour’s strengths are evident in these key areas:

• Professionalism and knowledge of the tour guides
• Informative and enriching tour experiences
• Reliable and responsive communication throughout the booking process

With these strong ratings and positive customer feedback, the Monterey and 17-Mile Drive Private Tour stands out as a top-notch excursion that delivers an exceptional sightseeing experience for visitors to the San Francisco Bay Area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Changes to the Tour Itinerary?

Yes, you can make changes to the tour itinerary. The tour is customizable, and you can discuss any desired modifications with the tour operator to personalize your experience within the allotted time frame.

Is There an Option to Add Extra Stops Along the Way?

Yes, the tour operator allows for additional stops along the way. Guests can discuss their interests with the tour guide and work together to customize the itinerary within the allotted time frame.

What Is the Maximum Group Size Allowed for This Tour?

The maximum group size allowed for this private day trip is up to 6 people. The tour is operated by A Taste of SF Tours and covers highlights in Monterey, Carmel, and along the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

No, snacks and drinks are provided on this tour. The tour includes bottled water, and the pricing covers all gratuities, so there’s no need to bring your own snacks and drinks.

Can I Request a Specific Pickup Time or Location?

Yes, customers can request a specific pickup time or location for this private tour. The tour operator is flexible and will work with customers to accommodate their preferences, subject to availability.

Recap

This exclusive day trip offers the perfect opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty and charming towns of Monterey, Pebble Beach, and Carmel. Explore the iconic 17-Mile Drive, indulge in fresh seafood, and learn about the unique atmosphere of these picturesque destinations, all in the comfort of a private vehicle. It’s a must-do experience for anyone seeking to discover the coastal wonders of Northern California.