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

Experience the California Coast: Monterey, Carmel, and 17-Mile Drive from San Francisco

If you’re craving a full day immersed in the natural beauty and charming towns along California’s coast, this tour from San Francisco is a solid choice. For $139 per person, you’ll spend about 11 hours exploring highlights like Monterey’s Cannery Row, the prestigious Pebble Beach golf course, and the quaint streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea. What we like most? The scenic drive along Highway 1, which offers some of the most breathtaking coastal views in the state, and the chance to wander freely at your stops—especially the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Carmel’s boutique-filled streets.

One of the biggest perks is the professional guide who keeps the journey engaging while simplifying logistics, like driving on winding roads. The included entrance to the 17-Mile Drive means you get to enjoy this legendary scenic loop without extra fuss, plus plenty of photo opportunities. A minor consideration: the tour is packed with stops, so if you’re looking for a slow, unstructured day, this might feel a bit rushed.

Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive glimpse of California’s coast without the hassle of driving or planning, this tour suits first-time visitors, coast lovers, and those short on time yet eager to see much. If you appreciate guided commentary and popping out for photos at iconic spots, this trip delivers.

Key Points

• Scenic Coastal Drive: Travel along California’s famous Highway 1 with multiple photo stops.
• Flexible Exploration: Free time in Monterey and Carmel allows for personalized adventures.
• All-Inclusive: Entrance fees for 17-Mile Drive included, with highlights like Pebble Beach and Lone Cypress.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a luxury coach with an experienced guide.
• Great for First-Timers: No need to worry about navigation or parking—just enjoy the ride.
• Tour Length: 11 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

A Deep Dive into the Journey: What to Expect

This full-day tour begins early in San Francisco, with pick-up included, so you can leave the logistics to someone else. From there, you’ll settle into a luxury coach—modern, air-conditioned, and designed for comfort. The guide (Thomas, as some reviews note) keeps the commentary lively and informative, sharing tidbits about each site, which helps turn a scenic drive into a storybook.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse and Davenport Stop

Your first stops are at Pigeon Point Lighthouse, the tallest on the West Coast. It’s an impressive sight, standing like a sentinel over the Pacific since 1871. Expect about 15 minutes here to snap photos, walk to the beach, or just take in the views. Next, the bus pauses at the Davenport café, a cozy spot to stretch legs, grab a coffee, and soak in the historic ambiance. The stop here lasts about 20 minutes—just enough for a quick refresh.

Monterey: The Heart of the Coast

The highlight for many is the 2-hour window in Monterey. This bustling town offers plenty of options: stroll Cannery Row, the historic district once filled with sardine factories, now home to shops and restaurants. If you’re a fan of marine life, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a top-class attraction. Several reviews praise the ample free time here, noting that you can enjoy a seafood lunch, browse boutiques, or visit the aquarium at your own pace.

17-Mile Drive: The Coastal Gem

The 17-Mile Drive is where the scenery truly dazzles. As you wind through the Pebble Beach community, you’ll see spectacular ocean vistas, sandy coves, and iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress—a centuries-old tree perched on a granite hillside, often photographed by visitors. Along the way, you’ll stop at Bird Rock Vista Point, teeming with seals and sea lions, and the Pebble Beach Golf Links, a world-famous course that hosts major tournaments.

Photo opportunities abound at each stop. Reviews rave about the beautiful scenery and the informative commentary from guides like George, who makes sure you don’t miss any details. The drive, while short in duration, is packed with breathtaking views that make it worth every penny.

Carmel-by-the-Sea: A Quaint Coastal Village

The last major stop is Carmel-by-the-Sea, a charming town with boutique shops, art galleries, and a historic Spanish mission. You get about an hour here to browse and soak up its relaxed vibe. Many travelers appreciate this free time, but some mention they’d prefer a little more to explore. The Carmel Plaza offers a variety of shops and eateries where you can unwind before heading back to San Francisco.

What the Tour Feels Like

From the comfort of the bus, you’ll enjoy the stunning seascapes, often with guides pointing out interesting facts, historical tidbits, and hidden gems. The photo stops are well-timed, providing scenic views perfect for capturing memories. The group size, usually around 45, allows for a lively but intimate experience, and most travelers find the ride comfortable.

The duration of around 11 hours** might seem long, but the pace is well-managed, with plenty of stops and breaks. The price point of $139 reflects the value of transportation, entrance fees, and guided insights. Reviews consistently mention that the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor elevate the experience, making it more than just a scenic drive.

The Value of Guided Tours

Many review comments highlight how much easier it is to enjoy the scenery when someone else handles the navigation and driving. Plus, you’ll find that a knowledgeable guide like Thomas or George adds context and stories that bring each site to life—something you wouldn’t get if you were driving solo.

Considerations and Potential Downsides

Some reviewers note that the itinerary is quite packed, which means less time at each stop than some might prefer. If you’re eager to linger longer at Pebble Beach or explore Carmel in more depth, this tour might feel somewhat rushed. Also, the length of the day—starting early and returning late—may be tiring, especially if you’re not accustomed to long bus trips.

Finally, the limited stops mean you see many highlights from the bus or through quick disembarkations. If you prefer a more leisurely pace with time to explore thoroughly, you might consider combining this tour with other options or planning extra time afterward.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-timers who want a rundown of California’s coast without the hassle of planning or driving. If you appreciate guided commentary, scenic photo stops, and a well-organized itinerary, you’ll find this tour satisfying. It’s also ideal for anyone who wants a value-packed day with an emphasis on beautiful vistas and iconic sites.

Travelers with an interest in golf, luxury towns, or marine life will especially enjoy the stops at Pebble Beach and the aquarium. If your main goal is to relax, take photos, and learn about the coast’s natural beauty, this tour offers a balanced mix of guided insights and free exploration.

The Sum Up

In the end, this full-day tour from San Francisco to Monterey, Carmel, and the 17-Mile Drive combines scenic beauty, convenience, and a touch of luxury. The professional guides, well-chosen stops, and included entrance fees make it a solid choice for visitors eager to see California’s coast with minimal fuss.

While the itinerary is quite packed—meaning you might need to be prepared for a full day—it offers excellent value for the price, especially considering the scenic stops and guided commentary. If you’re looking for an organized way to enjoy some of California’s most famous coastal sites, this tour will deliver much of what you’re after.

For those who prefer a more relaxed pace or more time at each location, consider supplementing this with additional visits later or choosing a more flexible, self-guided option. But for a comprehensive, guided experience to key coastal highlights, this trip hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 11 hours, starting early in the morning and returning in the evening. It’s a full day but designed to cover many highlights efficiently.

What’s included in the price?
The entrance fee for the 17-Mile Drive and transportation in a luxury coach with a professional guide are included. Food, drinks, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium are not.

Is there free time at the stops?
Yes, the tour offers free time in Monterey (about 2 hours) and an hour in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Stops along the coast are generally quick or photo-oriented.

Do I need to bring my own lunch?
Yes, food is at your own expense, but many stops, especially in Monterey, have good seafood options.

Can I join if I don’t drive?
Absolutely. The tour handles all the driving, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

What are the main highlights?
The Pigeon Point Lighthouse, Cannery Row, the 17-Mile Drive, Bird Rock Vista, Lone Cypress, and Pebble Beach Golf Links are the main attractions.

What if I want more time at Pebble Beach or Carmel?
The itinerary is quite full; additional time would require a customized tour or extra visits afterward.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, most reviews mention that travelers of all ages enjoyed the day. Just keep in mind the long duration.

How do I book?
You can reserve in advance, with bookings typically made around 33 days ahead. The tour offers a mobile ticket for convenience.