Monterey, Carmel, 17 Mile Dr, Big Sur & Mcway Falls PrivateTour

Experience the California Coast in Style with a Private Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day trip that combines breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and iconic landmarks, this private tour from San Francisco ticks all the boxes. For around $890 per group (up to five people), you’ll spend roughly 10 to 12 hours exploring some of California’s most famous coastal sights. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the journey takes you from early morning at Pacifica State Beach to the mesmerizing waterfalls of McWay in Big Sur, with plenty of stops for photos, snacks, and soaking in the view.

What we love about this experience? First, the intimate setting of a private tour means you can customize your day, focusing on what interests you most—whether that’s the scenic drives or the quaint charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Second, the carefully curated stops along Highway 1 ensure you won’t miss the most photo-worthy spots like Bixby Bridge or the Lone Cypress at Pebble Beach. The only caveat? Since it’s a full-day adventure, you’ll want to be prepared for a long day on the road, but trust us, it’s well worth it.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, picturesque towns, and iconic landmarks. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or families who want a flexible, personalized experience without the hassle of planning every stop. If you’re after a relaxed, authentic taste of California’s coast — with plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet moments — this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your interests.
• Includes top sights like Bixby Bridge, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and McWay Falls.
• Flexible stops allow for photo opportunities and exploring at your own pace.
• Comfortable transportation with bottled water and fuel surcharge included.
• Ideal for small groups up to five travelers seeking an authentic coastal adventure.
• Long day but packed with scenic highlights for photo lovers and scenery enthusiasts.

An In-Depth Look at the Monterey, Carmel, Big Sur & McWay Falls Private Tour

Starting with Coastal Charm: Pacifica State Beach and Pigeon Point Lighthouse

Your day begins early, around 8:00 am, with pickup in San Francisco, setting the tone for a day centered on California’s rugged coastline. The first stops are at Pacifica State Beach and Pigeon Point Light Station — two spots that immediately immerse you in the Pacific Ocean’s beauty. Pacifica’s surfing scene and cliffs offer a lively start, while the historic lighthouse at Pigeon Point provides a classic photo opportunity with its iconic structure and sweeping ocean views. Both stops are brief, around 15 minutes each, but they make a strong first impression.

Epic Cliffs and the Charm of Santa Cruz

Next, we head further down the coast to Davenport, with its towering cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas. Here, we loved how the dramatic coastline demands a camera, and the guide’s insights added depth to the scenery. Continuing south, Santa Cruz offers a vibrant beach town vibe — a welcome break with its lively boardwalk, shops, and relaxed atmosphere. Spending about an hour here, you can enjoy a quick stroll, perhaps grab a coffee, and soak in the laid-back California coast.

Monterey: Coastal Charm and Historic Appeal

The next major stop is Monterey, where cypress trees and historic buildings set a picturesque scene. We found that this part of the trip nicely blends natural beauty with a touch of history. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, wander through Cannery Row, or simply enjoy the ocean views. During the hour here, you’ll get a taste of how Monterey’s fishing heritage and seaside charm continue to attract visitors.

The Highlight of the Drive: 17-Mile Drive

Included in your tour is a one-hour segment along the legendary 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach — a true highlight. This scenic route offers views of Spanish Bay, Bird Rock, and the panoramic coastline. Pebble Beach’s golf course is world-famous, but even if golf isn’t your thing, the landscape more than compensates. The highlight here? The Lone Cypress, standing resilient on the cliffs, a symbol of the area.

Carmel-by-the-Sea: A Fairytale Town

A quick but memorable stop in Carmel-by-the-Sea introduces you to a storybook town with its whimsical cottages, art galleries, and peaceful beaches. We loved how this stop combines artistic flair with natural beauty, perfect for a short walk or a coffee. It’s a peaceful contrast to the rugged coastlines, and many travelers mention this as a favorite for its charm and tranquility.

Bixby Bridge and Big Sur’s Wild Coastline

No California coast drive is complete without a stop at Bixby Bridge — one of the most photographed bridges in California. Its stunning span and the surrounding rugged cliffs make it a must-see. We appreciated the brief stop here, which allows for plenty of photos and marveling at how engineers managed to build such a structure into the landscape.

Then, the drive along Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur truly lives up to its reputation. Expect dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and sweeping views that seem to stretch endlessly. This part of the day is the core scenic experience, and we loved how the guide pointed out natural features and shared stories along the way.

The Grand Finale: McWay Falls

Your trip culminates at McWay Falls, an 80-foot waterfall dropping onto a secluded beach — a scene so iconic it could be on a postcard. Here, you’ll have a chance to take some unforgettable photos and enjoy the raw beauty of nature. This stop is ideal for those wanting a memorable visual moment and a peaceful end to a busy day.

Practical Aspects and Comfort

The tour’s transportation is private, meaning you won’t be squeezed into a large bus or share with strangers. Bottled water is provided, helping keep everyone refreshed during the long day. The tour is designed for most travelers, with a flexible schedule that responds to your interests. Keep in mind, it’s a full day — so comfortable shoes and a readiness for scenic stops are a good idea.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

Based on reviews, travelers praise the flexibility and attentiveness of the guide, Pablo, who makes sure you see the sights most meaningful to you. One reviewer called it an “incredible day trip”, highlighting how the guide tailored the experience and made it memorable. Another pointed out that Carmel and Bixby Bridge were personal favorites, demonstrating that the stops are well-chosen to delight lovers of scenery and quaint towns alike.

Value for Money

While $890 might seem steep for a single day, remember that this covers private transportation, all the major sights, and a customized experience. For those wanting a hassle-free, personalized tour of the California coast, it offers excellent value, especially when you consider the convenience and insider knowledge on offer.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is perfect for small groups or families who want to experience California’s coast comfortably and flexibly. It’s great for travelers who value authentic scenery, unique photo opportunities, and a personal touch. If you’re someone who appreciates a tailored experience rather than a crowded bus ride, this option is worth considering. It’s also suitable if you’re short on time but want to see the highlights of Big Sur, Carmel, and Monterey without the stress of planning.

FAQs

What does the tour include?
The tour includes private transportation, bottled water, and fuel surcharge. Admission to sights like 17-Mile Drive is also included, but most stops are free.

How long does the tour last?
Expect a full day, approximately 10 to 12 hours. It starts at 8:00 am and wraps up in the evening.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed pace makes it suitable for families, though very young children should be prepared for a long day.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, being a private tour, your guide can tailor parts of the day to your interests, focusing more on scenery, towns, or landmarks.

How many people can join?
The tour is designed for groups up to five people, making it intimate and ideal for small groups or families.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is food or lunch included?
No, meals are not included, but there are plenty of options at stops like Carmel or Monterey.

What are the most praised stops?
Reviewers particularly loved Carmel-by-the-Sea, Bixby Bridge, and McWay Falls for their scenic beauty and photographic appeal.

Is this a guided or self-guided experience?
It’s guided, with a knowledgeable guide who shares insights and handles all logistics.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about eight days in advance, so plan early for popular dates.

To sum it up, this private California coast tour offers an excellent balance of scenic beauty, personalized service, and authentic experiences. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to enjoy the coast without the hassle of navigation or crowded tours. With stops that include both iconic landmarks and peaceful towns, it’s a day full of memorable sights and quiet moments. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family after adventure, or a group of friends wanting a picture-perfect day, this tour promises a well-rounded, thoroughly enjoyable experience of one of the world’s most stunning coastlines.