Experience the 17-Mile Drive on an Electric Bike — A Practical, Enjoyable Way to See Coastal California

Imagine cruising along one of the most iconic stretches of coastline in the United States, feeling the breeze as you pedal effortlessly on an electric bike. For $55 per person, you get four hours to explore the famous 17-Mile Drive starting just outside Monterey. This tour is perfect for those who want a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and incredible scenery. The location, at 685 Cannery Row, is convenient and close to public transportation, making this a flexible option for many travelers.
We love how electric bikes make exploring this scenic route accessible to a wide range of fitness levels and ages, including those as young as 13. The guides and staff at Adventures By The Sea seem committed to creating a relaxed, hassle-free experience. Two standout features are the spectacular ocean vistas you’ll enjoy at each turn and the ease of riding thanks to the electric assist. The only caution? If you’re expecting a challenging mountain trek, this ride is primarily flat, so it’s more about enjoying the views than conquering hills.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate stunning scenery but prefer a relaxed pace. It’s also ideal for those seeking a family-friendly activity or wanting to avoid strenuous biking. If you’re looking for an authentic way to enjoy Monterey’s coastline while avoiding the hustle of driving or crowded tours, this rental fits the bill.
Key Points
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- Stunning Coastal Views: You’ll get a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking scenery along the California coast.
- Accessible for All Ages: The electric assist makes the ride easier, with a minimum age of 13.
- Flexible Duration: Four hours is enough to explore comfortably without feeling rushed.
- Convenient Location: Starts at Cannery Row, close to public transportation.
- Highly Rated: With a 4.5-star rating based on 15 reviews, most travelers find this a worthwhile experience.
- Easy Booking & Cancellation: Book in advance (average 14 days ahead) and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
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A Deep Dive into the Electric Bike Experience
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Setting Out from Cannery Row
Starting at 685 Cannery Row, we found the location perfect for kicking off our adventure. The staff was friendly and efficient, making check-in straightforward. We appreciated the clear instructions on how to operate the electric bikes, which are a game-changer for enjoying the scenery without getting overly tired. As Nadia_A mentioned in her review, “The staff … made it all easy and quick — great experience.”
The Ride Itself: Why It’s Worth the Trip
Once underway, the 17-Mile Drive reveals itself as one of the country’s most beautiful coastal routes. The ocean views on this stretch are genuinely remarkable, with sweeping vistas of rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and the occasional golf course. Because the route is mostly flat, the electric bikes let you focus on soaking in the scenery rather than worrying about pedaling uphill.
What Makes This Ride Special
One of the highlights is how the electric bikes eliminate fatigue, allowing you to cover more ground comfortably. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a group that includes less athletic members or if you simply want to enjoy a leisurely ride. As Frances_F pointed out, “Logan was thorough and covered a lot of information, and the course was … fun overall.” They also appreciated how quick and easy the gear-up process was, emphasizing the convenience.
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The Scenery and Stops
While the route doesn’t include formal stops, you’ll naturally pause at viewpoints to admire the coastline, take photos, or just breathe in the fresh sea air. The views get better around each turn, and you’ll find yourself wanting to linger at each vista. The ride is smooth and flat, which means you won’t need to worry about challenging terrain. That’s what makes it so accessible—whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just want a relaxed day out.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- Book in advance: The experience is popular, with bookings typically made 14 days ahead.
- Weather matter: The experience is weather-dependent. If it’s canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.
- Age requirements: Must be at least 13 years old.
- Duration: Four hours gives plenty of time for a relaxed ride, with the option to extend if desired.
- Price vs. Value: At $55, the ride offers an affordable way to see one of America’s most beautiful coastlines with minimal hassle.
What Travelers Are Saying
Many reviewers rave about the magnificent views and ease of the ride. Nadia_A calls it “the best way to see and appreciate the full splendor of 17-Mile Drive,” emphasizing how much the electric bikes enhance the experience. Frances_F highlighted the thorough instructions and minimal fuss involved, which is important if you’re new to e-bikes.
Who Will Love This Experience?
If you’re after a relaxed, scenic adventure and prefer a pedal assist over strenuous biking, this is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suitable for families, first-time cyclists, or anyone wanting to skip the car and avoid strenuous uphill sections. It’s also ideal if you’re interested in capturing stunning photos and enjoying the coast at your own pace.
The Sum Up
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For anyone visiting Monterey and Carmel who wants to enjoy the spectacular views of the famous 17-Mile Drive without the stress of driving or challenging terrain, this electric bike tour is an excellent pick. It combines comfort, convenience, and breathtaking scenery into a manageable four-hour package. The friendly staff, flexible cancellation policy, and emphasis on an authentic, relaxed experience make it a smart choice for many.
Whether you’re traveling alone, with family, or as part of a group, this tour offers a balanced mix of adventure and leisure. The easy-to-ride electric bikes transform what could be a strenuous day into a delightful exploration of California’s coast. If you love beautiful vistas and want to experience them at your own pace, this ride will likely be a highlight of your trip.
FAQ
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Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, travelers must be at least 13 years old to participate, making it suitable for teenagers and families.
How long does the ride last?
The rental period is approximately four hours, giving plenty of time for a relaxed ride along the coast.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at 685 Cannery Row, Monterey, a convenient location close to public transportation.
What’s included in the price?
The $55 fee covers the electric bike rental, safety gear, and the guide’s instructions.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance. The experience is weather-dependent, and poor weather will lead to rescheduling or full refunds.
Is the route difficult?
No, the route is mostly flat, making it accessible for riders of all skill levels.
What makes this ride stand out?
The stunning ocean views and the ease of electric biking are the biggest highlights, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without exhaustion.
Is this experience good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The relaxed pace and scenic route make it a good option for solo adventurers.
How early should I book?
It’s best to book about two weeks in advance, as the experience is popular.
What if I want to extend the ride?
You can discuss with the staff at check-in; four hours is enough for a good exploration, but you might be able to customize your experience.
Enjoy exploring California’s coast on a bike that makes it all possible — scenic, easy, and unforgettable.
More E-Bikes in Monterey and Carmel
- Monterey Bay Famous Dog Friendly Electric Bike and Sidecar Tour
- Albatross Ridge Vineyards Electric Bike Tour & Wine Tasting
- Monterey 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour
- Monterey’s 17 Mile Drive Electric Bike Tour, 2.5-3 hour
- Big Sur’s Old Coast Road eBike Tour
- Carmel-by-the-Sea 2.5-3 Hour Electric Bike Tour
More Cycling Tours in Monterey and Carmel
- Monterey Bay Famous Dog Friendly Electric Bike and Sidecar Tour
- Albatross Ridge Vineyards Electric Bike Tour & Wine Tasting
- Monterey 17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour
- Monterey’s 17 Mile Drive Electric Bike Tour, 2.5-3 hour
- Big Sur’s Old Coast Road eBike Tour
- Carmel-by-the-Sea 2.5-3 Hour Electric Bike Tour
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