Monterey and Carmel are more than just stunning coastlines and charming villages—they’re also prime spots for California wine. The region benefits from a warm climate, rich soils, and a laid-back vibe that makes wine tasting not just about the wine, but about soaking in the landscape and local culture. Among the many options, we particularly love tours that combine immersive tasting experiences with authentic local insights, like the Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea, which pairs expert-led tastings with a stroll through the town’s hidden corners. If you’re craving a bit of adventure, the Vintage VW Bus wine tour offers a playful way to visit several wineries, all while riding in style.
Whether you prefer a laid-back afternoon, a scenic trolley ride, or a guided educational journey, Monterey and Carmel have a wine tour for you. The options below showcase a variety of experiences, from small-group tastings to cycling tours, ensuring every wine lover finds their perfect match.
Quick Overview
Our list features six top-rated wine tours in Monterey and Carmel, each offering a different flavor of wine country exploration:
– Small-group walking and tasting tour with local insights
– Vintage VW bus adventure visiting Carmel, Carmel Valley, and Monterey
– Premium package with multiple winery visits and lunch
– Educational afternoon tour led by a viticulture expert
– Electric bike and picnic experience among Carmel Valley’s vineyards
– Morning tour with exclusive access to Bernardus Winery’s Ingrid’s Vineyard
Now, let’s explore each of these in detail so you can find the best fit for your style and schedule.
1. Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea
At number one, this small-group wine tasting and walking tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a perfect blend of tasting, storytelling, and local exploration. The tour lasts about three hours and is led by knowledgeable guides who focus on the hidden corners of Carmel—places most visitors miss. You’ll sample some of the region’s best local wines, learning from sommeliers about the craftsmanship behind each glass. What sets this tour apart is the focus on both wine education and the charm of Carmel’s streets, with stops at boutique tasting rooms and recommendations for local restaurants, bars, and shops.
Tour guide Toby, who many reviews praise as a wealth of knowledge, brings the town’s history and wine culture alive. “He was so passionate about Carmel and wine,” wrote one visitor, emphasizing how the tour goes beyond just drinking. The intimate size means plenty of time to ask questions and really connect with the guide.
Bottom line: This is ideal if you want an immersive, small-group experience with a personal touch—perfect for wine enthusiasts who also enjoy exploring a scenic village.
2. Wine Tasting Tours in a Vintage VW Bus
For around $139, the Vintage VW Bus wine tour offers a playful, nostalgic way to discover California wines along the Monterey Peninsula. Traveling in a restored 1970 VW bus, you’ll visit Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Valley, and downtown Monterey, with stops at well-known wineries and tasting rooms. The itinerary includes about an hour at each stop, giving you ample opportunity to sample award-winning wines and chat with staff about their craft.
Guests rave about the fun atmosphere and the knowledgeable guide, Steve, who shares insights about the wineries and the area’s history. “We enjoyed talking with winemakers and walking through Carmel’s charming streets,” one reviewer notes. The tour’s relaxed pace and the novelty of the bus make it especially suited for travelers who want a memorable, social experience.
Bottom line: This is a fantastic choice for travelers who appreciate fun, informal experiences, and want to combine sightseeing with wine tasting in a quirky way.
3. Carmel Valley Wine Tour’s Premium Package
At number three, the Carmel Valley Wine Tour’s Premium Package offers a comprehensive half-day experience. It features visits to three wineries, with tastings included at each, plus a bottle of wine to take home and a lovely lunch at one of two local restaurants. The tour uses a vintage trolley or high-top van to cruise through Carmel Valley, with stops at renowned producers like Bernardus Winery, Rombi Vineyard, and Boekenoogen Winery.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of beautiful scenery, high-quality tastings, and insider knowledge from your guide. Guests appreciate the balanced mix of education and leisure, with reviews highlighting the excellent wines and attentive staff. The inclusion of lunch and a private tasting at Bernardus adds value, making it ideal for wine lovers wanting a deeper dive into the region’s reds and whites.
Bottom line: This tour offers a luxurious, full-sensory experience, perfect for those willing to invest a bit more for a full day of wine discovery.
4. Afternoon Half-day Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour
This Afternoon Half-day Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour is all about personalized education. Led by a guide with over 25 years of experience and a Master’s Degree in Viticulture, this tour offers a deeper understanding of the region’s terroir and winemaking techniques. It features visits to select wineries, including Chesebro Wines and McIntyre Vineyards, with tastings designed to showcase their best offerings.
What makes this experience special is the focus on learning—you’ll hear about the vineyards’ unique soils, climate, and production methods. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just sipping—they want to understand the “why” behind the wines. Reviewers mention the guide’s expertise and the chance to taste a curated selection of wines, making it an educational highlight.
Bottom line: Best suited for curious wine lovers eager for insight, this tour offers a thoughtful approach for a memorable afternoon.
$249.00 per person
5. Albatross Ridge Vineyards Electric Bike Tour & Wine Tasting
Number five, the Electric Bike Tour and Wine Tasting at Albatross Ridge combines physical activity with wine education. Over about three hours, you’ll cycle through a 25-acre estate on an electric bike, visiting 12 vineyard blocks with varying soils and exposures, gaining a real sense of how terroir influences flavor.
After your ride, enjoy a guided wine tasting paired with artisanal cheese and charcuterie. This experience is ideal for active travelers who want to see the vineyards up close and learn about the estate’s vineyard management and winemaking. Guests praise the scenic views, the relaxed pace, and the quality of the wines.
Bottom line: For those who like a bit of adventure and hands-on learning, this tour combines exercise, education, and delicious snacks—great for active wine aficionados.
$350.00 per person
6. Morning Half Day Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour
The Morning Half Day Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour offers a more exclusive experience, including access to Bernardus Winery’s Ingrid’s Vineyard for a private, educational walk led by a guide with over 30 years’ experience. The tour then includes a premium tasting at Bernardus Tasting Room, with options to visit other top wineries like Chesebro or McIntyre Vineyards.
This tour’s key advantage is its focus on personalized attention, with the chance to explore a vineyard intimately and enjoy a high-end tasting. Guests mention the guide’s extensive knowledge and the opportunity to sample excellent wines in a relaxed setting. The flexible second winery visit allows tailoring the experience to your preferences.
Bottom line: Best for serious wine enthusiasts wanting an exclusive, educational experience with insider access and personal attention.
$236.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Wine Tour
When selecting your wine adventure, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and your interest level. If you prefer a casual, fun experience, the VW bus tour offers a lively atmosphere. For a more educational journey, the afternoon or morning guided tours provide in-depth insights. Those seeking a luxury experience can opt for the premium package with multiple tastings and lunch.
Think about your fitness level or comfort with biking—if that’s a concern, the electric bike tour provides a gentle ride. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the value offered by the smaller group and tasting tours, while those seeking exclusivity should look at the private or premium options.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular experiences. Each offers a different way to enjoy the wine culture of Monterey and Carmel, so pick the one that suits your style.
Final Thoughts
Monterey and Carmel have grown into some of California’s finest wine regions, offering everything from relaxed tastings to interactive tours. For a personal and immersive experience, the Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea is hard to beat, especially with its focus on hidden gems. If you’re after fun and quirky, the vintage VW bus tour is a memorable way to explore multiple wineries. Meanwhile, those seeking deep knowledge and a private feel will find the morning or premium tours perfect.
No matter your preference, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these highly-rated experiences. Now, all that’s left is to raise a glass and enjoy California’s wine country at its best.