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

Exploring the stunning coastal landscapes of California is a must-do for any traveler visiting San Francisco. This full-day tour offers an immersive experience along the iconic Highway 1 and the renowned 17-Mile Drive, showcasing the region’s natural wonders. Travelers will have the opportunity to freely explore the historic city of Monterey and the picturesque town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, uncovering their charming attractions, vibrant culture, and diverse marine life. With comfortable transportation and a professional guide, this tour promises an enriching and hassle-free adventure. What awaits those who embark on this journey may just surprise even the most seasoned explorer.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Full-Day Tours In San Francisco.

Key Points

• Comprehensive full-day tour from San Francisco exploring the iconic Highway 1, 17-Mile Drive, Monterey, and Carmel coastal towns.
• Opportunities to witness breathtaking natural sights like Pebble Beach, Bird Rock, and the Lone Cypress tree.
• 2 hours of free time to explore the historic city of Monterey, including the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.
• 1.5 hours to discover the picturesque charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its fairytale-like cottages, art galleries, and upscale boutiques.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned luxury coach with a professional guide providing insights on the scenic landmarks.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from San Francisco whisks travelers along the iconic Highway 1 and the renowned 17-Mile Drive, offering opportunities to explore the charming coastal towns of Monterey and Carmel.

Guests will cruise past scenic viewpoints like Pebble Beach, Bird Rock, and the famous Lone Cypress.

In Monterey, they’ll have two hours to wander the historical streets and perhaps visit the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Then, it’s on to Carmel, where they’ll spend 1.5 hours discovering the town’s quaint shops, art galleries, and picturesque coastline.

With an air-conditioned luxury coach and a professional guide, this tour provides a seamless way to experience the best of California’s central coast.

Scenic Highlights

Along the iconic 17-Mile Drive, travelers frequently encounter stunning natural wonders, including the renowned Pebble Beach, the dramatic Bird Rock, and the picturesque Lone Cypress tree. At Pebble Beach, visitors can marvel at the rugged coastline and try their hand at golf on the world-famous courses. Meanwhile, Bird Rock showcases the vibrant marine life that thrives in the area, with seabirds and seals often visible. The Lone Cypress, a solitary tree clinging to the rocky coast, has become an iconic symbol of the region. These scenic highlights provide a breathtaking backdrop for the tour, immersing travelers in the natural beauty of the California coast.

Scenic Highlight	Key Features
Pebble Beach	Rugged coastline, world-famous golf courses
Bird Rock	Vibrant marine life, seabirds and seals
Lone Cypress	Iconic, solitary tree on the rocky coast

Monterey Exploration

Travelers on the tour have the opportunity to explore the historic city of Monterey, with its charming waterfront, renowned aquarium, and vibrant downtown area.

The tour allows for 2 hours of free time in Monterey, giving visitors the chance to wander along Fisherman’s Wharf, browse the local shops and galleries, or visit the acclaimed Monterey Bay Aquarium.

This world-class facility is home to an incredible array of marine life, from playful sea otters to towering kelp forests. Visitors can marvel at the aquarium’s interactive exhibits and learn about the region’s diverse ecosystem.

Whether strolling the scenic coastline or seeing the vibrant culture, travelers are sure to enjoy their time discovering the charms of Monterey.

Carmel Sightseeing

After exploring the charms of Monterey, the tour then transports visitors to the picturesque coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, allowing them 1.5 hours to soak in the quaint ambiance and unique character of this beloved destination.

Carmel is renowned for its fairytale-like cottages, art galleries, and upscale boutiques that line its charming streets. Visitors can stroll along the scenic Carmel Beach, browse the eclectic shops, or enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local cafes.

The town’s European-inspired architecture and serene atmosphere make it a delightful contrast to the bustling energy of Monterey. With ample time to explore, guests can truly enjoy the captivating charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Transportation Included

The tour provides transportation aboard an air-conditioned luxury coach, with a professional guide accompanying visitors throughout the day’s itinerary.

The comfortable coach ensures a pleasant ride as you cruise along Highway 1 and the iconic 17-Mile Drive.

Your knowledgeable guide will share insights about the scenic landmarks you’ll encounter, from the rugged coastline to the charming towns of Monterey and Carmel.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off in San Francisco, making it a convenient way to explore these picturesque destinations without the hassle of driving yourself.

Whether you’re admiring the Lone Cypress or strolling through the quaint streets of Carmel, the included transportation and guide service enhance the overall experience.

Cancellation Policy

Customers can cancel their tour reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour may be canceled by the operator due to inclement weather or if the minimum number of participants isn’t met.

This cancellation policy provides flexibility for travelers while ensuring the tour runs smoothly:

• Customers can request a full refund if they need to cancel their tour with at least 24 hours’ notice.
• The tour operator reserves the right to cancel the tour due to factors outside their control, such as severe weather.
• A minimum number of participants is required for the tour to run, ensuring a viable group size.
• In the event of a cancellation, customers will be promptly notified and issued a full refund.

Traveler Reviews

Travelers overwhelmingly praise this full-day tour from San Francisco to Monterey and Carmel, with an impressive 1,964 reviews and a 4.0 average rating.

Reviewers consistently highlight the tour’s outstanding value, with many commenting on the comprehensive itinerary that allows them to experience the stunning beauty of the California coastline.

Many praise the knowledgeable and engaging tour guide, who provides insightful commentary and ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Visitors also appreciate the convenient pickup and drop-off service, as well as the ample free time to explore the charming towns of Monterey and Carmel at their own pace.

Pickup and Drop-off

From out of San Francisco, the tour provides pickup and drop-off for participants, making the day trip to Monterey and Carmel a hassle-free experience. However, the service isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are permitted.

The pickup and drop-off locations include:

• Downtown San Francisco hotels
• Fisherman’s Wharf area
• Union Square
• Embarcadero

This convenient transportation ensures travelers can focus on enjoying the scenic coastal drive, the iconic 17-Mile Drive, and the charming towns of Monterey and Carmel without the worry of driving or parking. With a professional guide on board, the tour offers a seamless and memorable experience from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is typically no strict dress code for tours. Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is usually recommended. Guests should dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes to ensure they’re prepared for the activities and environments encountered during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks?

Yes, guests are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. However, guests should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour operator. Consuming food and beverages during the tour is at the discretion of your.

Is There a Restroom on the Coach?

Yes, the air-conditioned luxury coach used for the tour typically has a restroom on board. Travelers can use the restroom during the journey as needed for their comfort and convenience.

Can I Extend My Stay in Monterey or Carmel?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Monterey or Carmel. The tour provides 2 hours in Monterey and 1.5 hours in Carmel, but guests are free to stay longer on their own before being transported back to San Francisco.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size, but it’s held on an air-conditioned luxury coach, so the group size is likely limited by the vehicle’s capacity. Customers should check with the tour operator for details on the typical group size.

Recap

This full-day tour from San Francisco provides an immersive exploration of California’s stunning coastline.

Travelers will journey along iconic Highway 1 and the renowned 17-Mile Drive, encountering breathtaking natural wonders.

The tour offers opportunities to freely explore the historic city of Monterey and the picturesque coastal town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, allowing visitors to discover their charming attractions, vibrant culture, and diverse marine life.

Comfortable transportation and a professional guide ensure a hassle-free and enriching experience.