Monterey’s 17 Mile Drive Electric Bike Tour, 2.5-3 hour

If you’re dreaming of cruising along California’s iconic coast, a 2.5 to 3-hour electric bike tour of 17-Mile Drive from Monterey might just be your perfect match. Starting from Pacific Grove, this guided adventure offers a smooth, eco-friendly way to explore one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline in the U.S. For just $59 per person, you gain access to a well-organized experience that covers scenic viewpoints, historic sites, and iconic landmarks—without the exhaustion that sometimes comes with traditional biking.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the use of e-bikes means you can cover more ground comfortably, even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist. Secondly, the expert guides—notably people like Zane and Jack—bring stories and insights that enrich the ride far beyond what you’d get with a map in hand. We love that it’s family-friendly, with tandem options for children, and the variety of stops caters to everyone from wildlife enthusiasts to golf fans.

A small consideration: the group size is limited to 12, which keeps things intimate but means booking in advance is wise—most travelers book about two weeks ahead. Also, weather can impact the tour, so dressing appropriately for potentially chilly ocean breezes is smart. This tour suits those who want an active but relaxed way to see the coast with knowledgeable guides and lots of photo opportunities.

If you’re looking to combine scenery, education, and a bit of adventure, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suited for families, first-time e-bike riders, and anyone wanting to enjoy a leisurely experience at an excellent price.

Key Points

• Incredible scenery along the iconic 17-Mile Drive with multiple stops for photos and wildlife viewing.
• Expert guides like Zane and Jack make the experience engaging and educational.
• Family-friendly options including tandem bikes and shorter beginner routes.
• Comfortable e-bikes allow covering more ground with less effort, ideal for all fitness levels.
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Weather considerations are important—bring layered clothing for ocean breezes.

In-Depth Review of Monterey’s 17 Mile Drive Electric Bike Tour

The Experience in a Nutshell

This guided electric bike tour offers a fantastic way to explore Monterey, Carmel, and the scenic coastline. Starting at Big Sur Adventures just above a beautiful beach, the tour guides—whose knowledge and enthusiasm consistently earn high praise—lead you through some of the most scenic spots along 17-Mile Drive. The $59 fee is quite reasonable considering the quality of the experience, the equipment, and the guided insights.

Most tours last approximately three hours, during which you’ll enjoy a mix of leisurely riding and several stops at highlights such as Spanish Bay, Bird Rock, and the Lone Cypress. The journey offers both natural beauty and fascinating stories, making it a well-rounded activity suitable for all ages.

Why We Love It

First, the use of e-bikes is a game-changer here. It allows travelers of varying fitness levels or those with limited time to cover more ground comfortably. We loved how effortless it was to ride, especially along oceanfront sections that can be quite hilly or windy on a traditional bike.

Second, the guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, sharing stories ranging from marine life (like sea otters and sea lions) to local history and golf lore. Many reviews rave about guides like Zane, highlighting their ability to make the tour both fun and informative. One traveler noted, “Zane, our tour guide, was the best! So knowledgeable about marine biology and the history of the area.”

Possible Drawbacks

A key consideration is weather—the coast can be chilly and windy, especially if you’re visiting outside summer months. Dressing in layers is advised. Also, since the tour is limited to 12 participants, it’s best to book early to secure your spot, particularly during peak seasons.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is ideal for families with children who can ride tandem bikes (up to 120 lbs), first-time e-bike riders, and those seeking a relaxed yet scenic outing. It also appeals to travelers who appreciate guided commentary and want to maximize their sightseeing without tiring out.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point and First Stop — Pacific Grove Beach

The tour begins near the Big Sur Adventures shop, a short ride from the picturesque beach where surfers catch waves, and the ocean’s roar greets you. Many travelers comment that the initial stretch is lively and offers great photo opportunities, especially for those wanting to capture the waves and the coastline. One review mentions, “We loved the way the guide described the surf and ocean air. It’s a lively start that sets the tone for an exciting ride.”

Riding the Oceanfront Section

From the Pacific Grove gate, the ride continues along the oceanfront to Bird Rock. With waves crashing nearby and sea lions basking on rocks, this stretch is a highlight for wildlife lovers and photographers alike. Expect to stop for a few minutes here, with guides helping identify marine creatures like otters and seals.

The 8-Mile Scenic Drive

For the intermediate tour, the main highlight is the 8-mile stretch of 17-Mile Drive. This section is arguably the most famous, offering sweeping views of the Lone Cypress, Cypress Point, and the golf courses. Many visitors are captivated by the Lone Cypress, a 250-year-old tree that’s become a symbol of the coast and one of the most photographed trees in the world. A review notes, “Seeing the Lone Cypress up close on the bike was a memorable moment.”

Stops at Key Scenic and Wildlife Sites

• Spanish Bay: Pristine white sands and a chance to learn about early explorers.
• Restless Sea: With sea otters and seals, it’s a wildlife hotspot and perfect for snapping photos.
• Point Joe and China Rock: Offer stunning vistas and stories of early Chinese fishing communities.
• Bird Rock Vista Point: A favorite for wildlife spotting, especially for sea lions and birdwatchers.
• Cypress Point Lookout: On clear days, you might see the Point Sur Lighthouse and learn about the exclusive Pebble Beach golf course.

The Famous Golf Course and the Ghost Tree

Golf lovers will appreciate the stop at Hole #16, where players drive over the ocean. The curvy roads under ancient cypress trees provide a scenic backdrop, making for a perfect photo op. The Ghost Tree is a bonus stop for faster riders, offering spectacular views of Point Lobos and Carmel Bay.

The Nurture and Relaxation Stop

The Pebble Beach Market provides a welcomed break with coffee, gelato, and snacks. Many reviews praise this part as a relaxing moment to soak in the views and chat about what you’ve seen so far.

Family-Friendly Route

For those with young children or seeking a more relaxed experience, the beginner route focuses on the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail, Lovers Point, and coastal parks. It’s designed to be easy, safe, and filled with opportunities for wildlife spotting and family photos. One reviewer shared, “The kids and I had lots of fun and learned about Monterey Bay as well.”

What Travelers Say

Many reviews emphasize guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude. “Jack is a great guide,” one reviewer states, noting how the storytelling added depth to the experience. The scenery consistently receives high praise, with comments like “gorgeous views” and “one of the most scenic coastlines you’ll ever see.”

The e-bikes themselves are described as easy to maneuver and comfortable, which makes the tour accessible even for those who haven’t ridden such bikes before. The inclusion of helmets, gloves, and bottled water adds to the sense of a well-organized, comfortable outing.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

Based on reviews, most travelers felt the experience was value-packed given the price, especially considering the guide’s insights. Some mention that spring may see certain stops temporarily closed—like Cypress Point—so checking the schedule is wise.

Weather-wise, it’s good to be prepared for cool ocean breezes; layering is recommended. Also, booking 17 days in advance is typical, so plan ahead if your dates are fixed.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

This electric bike tour is perfect for families, casual cyclists, and those eager to see Monterey’s coast without the fatigue of traditional biking. It’s particularly appealing for first-timers or travelers who want a knowledgeable guide to unravel the stories behind each stop. If you love stunning views, wildlife, and golf lore, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

The small group size and guided commentary create a personalized experience, making it more than just a sightseeing ride. It’s an opportunity to truly connect with the landscape and learn about the area’s natural and human history.

For those willing to dress warmly and book ahead, this tour offers a memorable, scenic, and educational adventure worth every penny.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can ride tandem bikes up to 120 lbs, and the tour is designed to be family-friendly with stops geared toward all ages.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, providing enough time for sightseeing, stops, and some wildlife viewing without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is advised because coastal weather can be chilly and windy, especially along the oceanfront.

Are the bikes easy to ride?
Absolutely. The e-bikes are described as good and easy to maneuver, making them accessible for beginners and those concerned about exertion.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes e-bike rental, helmets, gloves, a guide, and bottled water. Snacks or additional beverages are available at the Pebble Beach Market stop.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to rain or poor weather, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

This guided 17-Mile Drive electric bike tour blends scenic beauty, wildlife, and local stories into a relaxed, enjoyable outing. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family visit, or a golf enthusiast, it’s an experience that will leave you with stunning photos and a true appreciation for California’s coast.