Carmel Tour in The Heavenly 17 Mile Drive

Experience the Best of Carmel and 17-Mile Drive with a Private Tour

When you think of Monterey and Carmel, images of dramatic cliffs, luxury golf courses, and serene ocean vistas come to mind. This private tour, priced at $287 and lasting about 2 to 3 hours, offers a flexible way to experience the legendary 17-Mile Drive without the stress of driving yourself. You’ll visit some of the most beautiful spots along California’s coast, with a knowledgeable local guide, Bill Devoe, providing insights that make each stop more meaningful.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the personalized control it offers—thanks to the Pintours app—and the inclusion of two world-class golf courses that are often overlooked by casual visitors. The tour’s flexibility lets you choose how long to linger at each stop, making it a truly tailored adventure.

A potential consideration is the ticketing process at the park. One review mentioned that the park’s staff declined their tour tickets, stating they can only be purchased at the office, which could cause confusion or delays. It’s worth confirming your tickets beforehand or being prepared for this possibility.

This tour suits travelers who crave an authentic, relaxed experience of Carmel’s stunning coastline, especially those who appreciate expert local commentary and the chance to avoid the crowds. If you’re a golf enthusiast or simply love jaw-dropping ocean views, this tour can be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Flexible, private experience tailored to your preferences, with control over timing via the Pintours app.
• Stunning coastal views along the Pacific, including iconic spots like Cypress Point Lookout and Pescadero Point.
• Access to world-renowned golf courses such as Poppy Hills and Spyglass Hill, which are as breathtaking as they are challenging.
• Informative local guide providing insights into the area’s natural beauty and history.
• Cost-effective for what you get compared to typical group tours, especially with the private customization.
• Potential park ticketing hiccup that might require some upfront planning.

A Deep Dive into the Carmel & 17-Mile Drive Tour

The Basics: What You Get and How It Works

For $287, you gain a private, completely customizable journey along the famed 17-Mile Drive, with the convenience of pickup. The tour’s duration is flexible, roughly 2 to 3 hours, which means you can spend more or less time at each stop depending on your interests. The highlight, of course, is the 17 stops along the route, each showcasing some of the most awe-inspiring coastal scenery available.

The tour is designed to give you a personalized experience—you control the pace, pause at points of interest, skip stops you’re less excited about, and dive deeper into the spots that catch your eye. The Pintours app is central to this, providing all the information you need about each stop, along with the ability to pause or skip as you wish.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: 17-Mile Drive
It all begins with the scenic drive, spanning approximately an hour, offering views of crashing waves against rugged rocks and sweeping vistas of the Pacific. Expect to see some of the most iconic landscapes in the area, with the flexibility to linger or move on quickly. A note from a reviewer highlighted the breathtaking nature of this stretch, emphasizing just how memorable the scenery is.

Stops 2 & 3: Poppy Hills & Spyglass Hill Golf Courses
Golf lovers will love these stops. Poppy Hills, nestled in the Del Monte Forest, is famed for its beauty and challenge, while Spyglass Hill is equally stunning, with lush greens and spectacular ocean views. Both are included with admission tickets, making these stops a highlight for those interested in golf or simply appreciating world-class landscapes. One reviewer called Spyglass “a slice of heaven,” and praised the lush, sleek fairways.

Stop 4: Cypress Point Lookout
Here, you’ll find yourself on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific, with views so striking that they tend to leave visitors speechless. It’s a quick stop—about 20 minutes—but one that packs a visual punch, perfect for photos and soaking in the vastness of the coast.

Stop 5: Pescadero Point
A lesser-known gem, Pescadero Point offers some of the best coastal vistas in the area. It’s a perfect spot for curious travelers wanting a quieter place to admire the rugged shoreline and ocean spray. As one reviewer put it, this spot is a “feast for the eyes,” and ideal for those who love discovering hidden treasures.

Stop 6: Pebble Beach
No visit to Carmel is complete without a stop at Pebble Beach Golf Links, one of the most famous golf courses in the world. Even if you’re not a golfer, the views here are worth the visit—celebrity favorites and historic Caddies aside, it’s an iconic part of the landscape. The tour allows about 25 minutes here, giving you time to admire the scenery or snap some photos.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

One reviewer noted that doing the tour with a driver was a “much better experience than driving yourself,” highlighting the value of having someone else navigate and narrate the journey. It’s particularly helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area or want to relax and take in the scenery without the stress of driving.

The app’s features—pause, skip, and detailed info—are especially appreciated. It means you can tailor the tour to your interests, whether you want to linger longer at a viewpoint or move quickly to the next.

Practical Considerations

A key point to remember is the ticketing issue some travelers have encountered. One review mentioned that the park staff refused entry with tour tickets, saying they could only be purchased at the entrance. While the tour provider states tickets are not included, it’s smart to double-check your reservation and possibly buy tickets in advance or confirm directly with the park.

The tour includes pickup options, which adds convenience, especially for those staying in Carmel or Monterey. The total cost reflects the private, personalized nature—something you won’t get with a large bus tour—and the ability to enjoy a more intimate experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a flexible, private way to enjoy the coast without the crowds. It’s well-suited for golf enthusiasts, nature lovers, or anyone wanting expert insights into the area’s highlights. If you’re looking for a luxurious, tailored day with ample opportunities for photos and quiet reflection, this tour offers excellent value.

It’s especially beneficial if you want to avoid the hassle of driving yourself or being part of a large group. The control over timing and stops means you can really make this your own adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This Carmel tour along the 17-Mile Drive offers a wonderful balance of stunning scenery, personalized service, and insider knowledge. The views, especially at spots like Cypress Point Lookout or Pescadero Point, are truly breathtaking and worth every penny. The inclusion of famous golf courses adds an extra layer of interest, whether or not you’re a golfer.

While there’s a minor caveat regarding park ticketing, the overall experience provides excellent value, especially for those who value flexibility and expert narration. For families, couples, or solo travelers craving an authentic, scenic adventure without the stress of navigation, this private tour hits the mark.

If you’re someone who loves to take your time, soak in the views, and enjoy a tailored experience, this is likely to be a memorable highlight of your trip to Carmel and Monterey.

FAQ

Is this tour private or part of a group?
This is a fully private experience, meaning only your group participates, offering a more intimate and flexible outing.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on how long you choose to spend at each stop.

Does the tour include admission tickets?
Admission to Poppy Hills and Spyglass Hill Golf Courses is included. However, tickets for the 17-Mile Drive itself are not included and may need to be purchased separately at the park’s office.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the Pintours app allows you to pause, skip, and explore stops at your own pace, making the tour highly customizable.

Is there a pickup service?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby or in Carmel.

What about the views?
Expect some of the most iconic and breathtaking coastal vistas in California, with stops at viewpoints like Cypress Point Lookout and Pescadero Point.

Are children or non-drivers allowed?
Absolutely, as this is a private tour, it’s suitable for all ages, especially those who prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of driving.

To sum it up, this Carmel and 17-Mile Drive private tour provides a relaxed, scenic, and customizable way to enjoy one of California’s most beautiful coastlines. It’s ideal for those who value flexibility, expert narration, and stunning views—making it a worthwhile addition to your California adventure.