
17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 487 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour worth booking?
17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour is a 11-hour experience in San Francisco, United States, from $118 per person. It scores 85 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 487 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 85 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (487)
- Duration
- 11 hours
- From
- $118 per person
Discover California’s coastal magic on this full-day small-group tour from San Francisco. Cruise the legendary Pacific Coast Highway in a comfortable and professionally maintained vehicles, soaking up dramatic ocean views and stories of maritime history. Enjoy two hours in Monterey to explore Cannery Row, savor fresh seafood, or visit the world-famous aquarium. Then wind through the exclusive 17-Mile Drive with stops at Bird Rock, the Lone Cypress, and Pebble Beach Golf Links. Wrap up your day in Carmel-by-the-sea, browsing upscale boutiques and wine tasting rooms in a storybook setting. With expert commentary, scenic stops, and relaxed elegance, this coastal escape is the perfect blend of beauty, culture, and charm!
What you get
About this experience
Discover California’s coastal magic on this full-day small-group tour from San Francisco. Cruise the legendary Pacific Coast Highway in a comfortable and professionally maintained vehicles, soaking up dramatic ocean views and stories of maritime history. Enjoy two hours in Monterey to explore Cannery Row, savor fresh seafood, or visit the world-famous aquarium. Then wind through the exclusive 17-Mile Drive with stops at Bird Rock, the Lone Cypress, and Pebble Beach Golf Links. Wrap up your day in Carmel-by-the-sea, browsing upscale boutiques and wine tasting rooms in a storybook setting. With expert commentary, scenic stops, and relaxed elegance, this coastal escape is the perfect blend of beauty, culture, and charm!
What's included
Included
- Ticket: Pigeon Point Lighthouse
- Water and light snacks
- Friendly and Professional Guides or Driver-Guides
- Admission tickets for 17-Mile Drive, Bird Rock Vista Point, Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Ride in Comfortable and Professionally Maintained Vehicles (vehicle based on number of guests)
Not included
- Any expenses not listed
- Meals, Food, and Beverages
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
San Francisco
Your coastal escape begins as you step aboard a luxury Vehicle in the heart of San Francisco, ready to trace the legendary Pacific Coast Highway. This world-famous route hugs the rugged California shoreline, revealing jaw-dropping views of windswept cliffs, crashing surf, and endless ocean horizons. With every turn, the landscape unfolds like a living postcard — dramatic, wild, and unforgettable. Let your guide handle the driving while you relax, snap photos, and soak in the raw beauty of the Pacific. From charming seaside towns to historic landmarks, this scenic journey sets the tone for a day filled with coastal wonder.
Pass by without stopping
Pacific Coast Highway
Pacific Coast Highway (Pass By)
Pass by without stopping
Pigeon Point Light Station
Tallest lighthouse on the west Coast of the United States. It is still an active Coast Guard aid to navigation. Explore the lighthouse or a quick walk down to the beach.
20 minutes here · Admission included
Monterey Bay and Lovers Point As your guide glides around the stunning Monterey Peninsula, feast your eyes on sweeping views of Monterey Bay—one of California’s most vibrant marine ecosystems. From the kelp-draped shallows to the deep submarine canyon teeming with life, this stretch of coastline is a living postcard. The bay spans from Santa Cruz to Monterey, shimmering with sapphire waters and framed by untouched shoreline. Your guide will share captivating insights into the region’s oceanographic significance and its legacy in the fishing industry. With every curve of the road, you’ll discover new angles for breathtaking photos—so keep your camera ready for this unforgettable coastal showcase.
Pass by without stopping
Cannery Row
Cannery Row Step into the heart of Monterey with a two-hour stop at the legendary Cannery Row—once a sardine-packing hub, now a vibrant waterfront haven. Stroll the historic boardwalk lined with oceanfront restaurants, quirky boutiques, and art-filled galleries. Savor fresh seafood with bay views, sip coffee at a cozy café, or dive into the wonders of the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium (admission not included). Whether you're snapping photos of the sparkling shoreline or soaking up the laid-back charm, Cannery Row offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty. It’s no wonder this iconic street is the crown jewel of California’s Central Coast
90 minutes here
17-Mile Drive
17-Mile Drive Prepare to be swept away by the breathtaking beauty of the 17-Mile Drive—one of the world’s most iconic coastal routes. Winding through the exclusive enclave of Pebble Beach, this scenic journey unveils dramatic cliffs, windswept cypress forests, and lavish oceanfront estates. Your guide will point out legendary landmarks like the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Golf Links as we make several stops for unforgettable photos and fresh coastal air. From crashing surf to serene coves, every mile feels cinematic. Seasonal closures may occur during major events like the PGA Tour or the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, but your guide will ensure a seamless experience. This legendary loop through Del Monte Forest offers a front-row seat to California’s coastal splendor.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Bird Rock Vista Point
Bird Rock Vista Point A dazzling stop along the iconic 17-Mile Drive—offers a front-row seat to California’s coastal wildlife spectacle. Once cloaked in guano (seabird droppings), this offshore rock now hosts sunbathing sea lions, playful harbor seals, and a flurry of seabirds like pelicans, cormorants, and gulls. Step off the coach and spend 15 unforgettable minutes immersed in nature’s symphony—waves crashing, sea lions barking, birds soaring. Your guide will unveil the rock’s quirky ecological transformation and the vibrant life it now supports. With sweeping views of the Pacific and dramatic rock formations, it’s a photographer’s dream and a nature lover’s paradise
15 minutes here · Admission included
Lone Cypress
Lone Cypress Pause for a powerful moment at the Lone Cypress—one of the most photographed trees in North America. Clinging to a granite outcrop above the Pacific, this 250-year-old Monterey Cypress stands as a breathtaking symbol of resilience, having weathered centuries of storms, sea spray, and time itself. Nestled between two world-famous golf courses, it’s a living icon of the California coast. You’ll have 15 minutes to walk around, capture stunning photos, and feel the quiet majesty of this solitary sentinel. With its dramatic setting and timeless beauty, the Lone Cypress is a must-see highlight of the 17-Mile Drive. 15 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included
15 minutes here · Admission included
Pebble Beach, California Usa
Pebble Beach Golf Links Pebble Beach Golf Links is more than a golf course—it's a pilgrimage for lovers of beauty, sport, and history. Perched on California’s rugged Monterey Peninsula, this legendary public course offers jaw-dropping views of Carmel Bay and the Pacific Ocean. In just 15 minutes, you can stroll past windswept fairways, peek into the storied clubhouse, and browse the upscale golf shop. Even non-golfers are swept away by the cliffside greens, iconic holes like the par-3 7th and par-5 18th, and the chance to spot seals and sea lions basking nearby. Host to five U.S. Opens and countless PGA Tour moments, Pebble Beach is a bucket-list destination where elegance meets wild coastal drama.
30 minutes here · Admission included
Carmel-by-the-Sea (Pass By) As your coastal journey draws to a close, settle in for a scenic drive through the enchanting village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Nestled on the Monterey Peninsula, this fairytale town is a tapestry of whimsical cottages, windswept cypress trees, and golden beaches kissed by Pacific sunsets. Though we won’t stop, your guide will unveil Carmel’s hidden gems—from the historic Carmel Mission to the breathtaking Bluff Path that hugs the shoreline. With its storybook charm, vibrant art galleries, and upscale boutiques tucked into leafy courtyards, Carmel offers a dreamy finale to your adventure. It’s not just a drive—it’s a glimpse into one of California’s most magical coastal treasures.
Pass by without stopping
Carmel Plaza
Carmel Plaza Your final stop is the chic Carmel Plaza, an upscale outdoor haven nestled in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Spend two leisurely hours exploring a curated mix of luxury boutiques, gourmet shops, and wellness studios. Sip world-class wines in one of three tasting rooms, savor globally inspired cuisine—from East/West fusion to rustic French fare—and unwind in lush garden courtyards. With its relaxed elegance and coastal charm, Carmel Plaza offers the perfect setting to reflect on your journey and indulge in a little self-care before heading back to San Francisco. Whether you're shopping for one-of-a-kind fashion or simply soaking in the ambiance, this refined destination is a memorable finale to your day.
90 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
San Francisco
8:30 – San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront, 1800 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame, CA 94010
Meeting point
San Francisco
8:00 – Union Square (291 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102)
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
8:30 – San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront, 1800 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame, CA 94010
Ends at
8:00 – Union Square (291 Geary St, San Francisco, CA 94102)
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 12 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Jupiter Legend Corporation
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- For safety and communication purposes during the trip, a valid and reachable phone number is required for participants.
- Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant travelers may join if they are under 24 weeks pregnant by the end of the trip.
- Tickets and Admission Policy: Third-party attraction tickets or city passes are not accepted for participation in the tour. All admission tickets must be purchased either during booking or directly from your tour guide on the day of the tour.
- Children under 6 may require a booster seat by law. When traveling on the minivans or vans, booster seats may be needed. Please contact the tour operator in advance if needed. Rental service is also available upon request.
- You must contact the tour operator at least 3 days prior to the departure date to provide the pick-up location. If no information is received by the deadline, the default pick-up location and time will be automatically assigned:
- The perfect non-matchday escape for football fans
- Please double-check your booking details (name and contact info), as any errors may result in additional personal costs.
- For the safety and comfort of your little one, guests traveling with an infant are kindly requested to prepare and bring their own infant car seat in advance.
- For a comfortable and enjoyable experience, we recommend bringing comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash, and drinks for hydration.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 484 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
Traveler reviews
484 verified traveler reviews for 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great tour
This was a great tour saw lots of beautiful sites and interesting things. Scott was a wonderful Tour Guide.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your feedback! We are so happy to hear you enjoyed the service we've provided! We look forward to welcoming you back on your next visit!
via Viator
Best tour guide ever!
We had a Fabulous time!! Angie was the greatest tour guide with much attention to our needs and desires. She was informative at every stop and answered all of our questions. We would love to have her guide us again!!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your feedback! We are so happy to hear you enjoyed the service we've provided! We look forward to welcoming you back on your next visit!
via Tripadvisor
Great Scenery
I enjoyed the scenery and have taken loads of photos the pick up point is quite easy to find. The only thing I did find a bit boring was the shops in Carmel By The Sea because I'm not a shopping person. However the weather was brilliant so I was able to stretch my legs and get a bit of exercise.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your feedback! We are so happy to hear you enjoyed the service we've provided! We look forward to welcoming you back on your next visit!
via Viator
Nice place to visit, but we didn't really enjoy the experience.
The actual trip was fine. We appreciated the flexibility of the guide to drop us off at a place convenient to us. The vehicle (people mover) had tinted windows, which spoiled the view and the road noise made it very difficult to hear the guide. Unfortunately, the guide talked almost non-stop and this spoiled the experience, as a lot of it either couldn't be heard or was not very relevant.
via Tripadvisor
Absolutely beautiful ride...
Absolutely beautiful ride with Scott at the wheel! The transportation, pickup and complete tour was 5 star!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your feedback! We are so happy to hear you enjoyed the service we've provided! We look forward to welcoming you back on your next visit!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 11 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 170
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Jupiter Legend Corporation, who run 239 experiences we rank across 48 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 58.0 and 6 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Jupiter Legend Corporation runsWhy this scores 85
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for San Francisco.
How much does 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour cost?
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Prices start at $118 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in San Francisco usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour take?
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Plan for about 11 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in San Francisco is not rushed.
Is 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 85 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 487 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in San Francisco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 11-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour?
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Around 170 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in San Francisco can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in San Francisco and add a light layer if any part of the 11-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central San Francisco within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in San Francisco?
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San Francisco packs Alcatraz, Muir Woods, Napa and the bay into day-trip range, which makes booking order matter more than anywhere else in the US. Alcatraz sells out weeks ahead, wine-country vans fill on weekends, and the best food walks in the Mission and Chinatown cap at a dozen people. Our ranking favours small groups and guides who live in the neighbourhood they walk. On Outty we rank every San Francisco experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Small Group Yosemite and Giant Sequoias Day Trip from San Francisco, Golden Gate Bridge Muir Woods Sausalito with Optional Alcatraz, Chinatown, North Beach, Little Italy: 7 Tastings & History. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit San Francisco?
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September and October, the city's real summer, once the fog season breaks. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in San Francisco?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour?
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Included: Ticket: Pigeon Point Lighthouse; Water and light snacks; Friendly and Professional Guides or Driver-Guides; Admission tickets for 17-Mile Drive, Bird Rock Vista Point, Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach Gol; and Ride in Comfortable and Professionally Maintained Vehicles (vehicle based on number of gue. Not included: Any expenses not listed; Meals, Food, and Beverages; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour?
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8:30 – San Francisco Airport Marriott Waterfront, 1800 Old Bayshore Hwy, Burlingame, CA 94010 Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant travelers may join if they are u; and For the safety and comfort of your little one, guests traveling with an infant are kindly. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Peninsula&Carmel Premium Small Group Tour?
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Across 487 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers found the schedule tight or the day long.
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