Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF
Traveler rating
4.2/5
Based on 2,238 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF worth booking?
Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF is a 11-hour experience in San Francisco, United States, from $129 per person. It scores 74 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.2/5 rating across 2,238 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 74 / 100
- Rating
- 4.2/5 (2,238)
- Duration
- 11 hours
- From
- $129 per person
Cruise along California's spectacular coastline on a relaxing day trip from San Francisco. Follow Highway 1 and enjoy stops at Pigeon Point Lighthouse and in Davenport for a quick coffee and snack. Back on the road traveling by Monterey Bay and Peninsula, to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Steinbeck's Cannery Row. Explore Monterey's charming shops or choose to go to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Two hours is ample time for pictures and Instagram posts of everything you are experiencing. See the stunning estates of 17-Mile Drive, as well as Bird Rock, Lone Cypress, and world famous, Pebble Beach Golf Course. Arriving in Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for the museums and library of the historic Carmel Mission, and the fairytale cottages, and galleries of its village like center. 11 hours of breathtaking sightseeing, unique shopping, historical landmarks, mouth-watering culinary innovation.
What you get
About this experience
Cruise along California's spectacular coastline on a relaxing day trip from San Francisco. Follow Highway 1 and enjoy stops at Pigeon Point Lighthouse and in Davenport for a quick coffee and snack. Back on the road traveling by Monterey Bay and Peninsula, to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Steinbeck's Cannery Row. Explore Monterey's charming shops or choose to go to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Two hours is ample time for pictures and Instagram posts of everything you are experiencing. See the stunning estates of 17-Mile Drive, as well as Bird Rock, Lone Cypress, and world famous, Pebble Beach Golf Course. Arriving in Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for the museums and library of the historic Carmel Mission, and the fairytale cottages, and galleries of its village like center. 11 hours of breathtaking sightseeing, unique shopping, historical landmarks, mouth-watering culinary innovation.
What's included
Included
- Transport by air-conditioned luxury motor-coach with a professional guide
- Day-trip to Monterey and Carmel
- 2 hours stop at Monterey Bay
- 1 hour stop at Carmel by the Sea
- Entrance fee for the 17-Mile Drive Included
- Stops at Pigeon Point Lighthouse, Pebble Beach, Bird Rock and the Lone Cypress
Not included
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Hotel Pick-up & drop-off
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
What you'll see and do
Pacific Coast Highway
The lighthouse, constructed in 1871, serves as a guiding beacon for ships navigating the Pacific coast of California. It proudly stands as the tallest lighthouse along the West Coast of the United States and continues to play an active role in assisting the Coast Guard in navigation. During the journey, travelers will have the chance to disembark from the bus to capture memorable photos with the lighthouse as their backdrop or enjoy a brief stroll down to the nearby beach.
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.
15 minutes here
Davenport
The bus conveniently stops directly in front of the Davenport Cafe, which takes its name from the historical figure Captain John Pope Davenport. Captain Davenport settled at El Jarro Point, which is roughly half a mile away from the present-day town. This cafe is an excellent spot to take a break, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy some snacks. Additionally, travelers are welcome to make use of the cafe's restroom facilities.
20 minutes here
Monterey Bay
The Monterey Bay is situated along the California coast, to the south of the major cities of San Francisco and San Jose. At the north end of the bay lies Santa Cruz, while at the southern tip of the Monterey Peninsula, you'll find Monterey.
Pass by without stopping
Cannery Row
Cannery Row, located in the New Monterey section of Monterey along the waterfront, was once home to thriving sardine canning factories. Today, Cannery Row has transformed into a popular tourist destination, featuring numerous restaurants and shops. As you drive through this historic district, you'll be heading towards the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is situated by the beautiful Monterey Bay. This is the designated stopping point for the Monterey segment of the tour. Here, travelers will have a generous 2-hour window of free time to explore several attractions, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, various restaurants, and stores. This ample time allows travelers to leisurely enjoy lunch, soak in the sights, and then proceed to the next destinations of 17-Mile Drive and Carmel. Note: Monterey Bay Aquarium (tickets must be purchased separately and reserved prior to departure date from the official Monterey Bay Aquarium website: www.montereybayaquarium.org)
120 minutes here
17-Mile Drive
The 17-Mile Drive is a picturesque loop that winds through the private Pebble Beach community on the Monterey Peninsula. Along the way, travelers will be treated to stunning coastal vistas featuring pristine coves and sandy beaches. While the drive itself doesn't require much time, there are numerous designated stops where you can capture breathtaking photos. It's important to note that this attraction may be temporarily closed during certain annual events, including the PGA Tour in February and the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance car show in August.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Bird Rock Vista Point
This bustling wildlife hub is teeming with a vibrant population of birds, harbor seals, and noisy sea lions. Bird Rock, once buried under 4 to 5 feet of pelican and cormorant guano until 1930, was cleared for use as fertilizer. Subsequently, sea lions have claimed this cleared perch as their sunbathing spot, and they've been enjoying it ever since.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Lone Cypress
Standing proudly on a granite hillside, the Lone Cypress is a remarkable Monterey Cypress tree. This iconic tree holds the distinction of being one of the most photographed trees in all of North America. It stands sentinel between two renowned golf courses, the Cypress Point Club and the Pebble Beach Golf Links, both of which are among the world's most famous. The Lone Cypress is estimated to be around 250 years old and bears the scars of past fires. To ensure its stability, it has been anchored in place with cables for the past six decades. Travelers will have the opportunity to disembark from the bus at this spot, offering them an excellent chance to capture memorable photographs of this enduring natural wonder.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Pebble Beach Golf Links is internationally renowned as one of the most stunning golf courses globally, as it gracefully embraces the rugged coastline and offers expansive vistas of Carmel Bay, which opens up to the vast Pacific Ocean. This prestigious course hosts annual events by the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions. During your visit, travelers will have the opportunity to disembark from the bus and enjoy some time either in the clubhouse or exploring the souvenir shop. Please note that certain closures may occur due to annual events, such as the PGA Tour AT&T Pro-Am in February.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Small beach community on California's Monterey Peninsula. The Scenic Bluff Path runs from surf spot Carmel Beach to bird-rich Carmel River State Beach.
Pass by without stopping
Carmel Plaza
Situated in the charming heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Plaza offers a unique blend of fashion boutiques, specialty natural brands, exceptional dining establishments, gourmet shops, wine tasting rooms, salons, wellness studios, and much more, all within a relaxed and refined environment. During this stop, travelers will have the opportunity to disembark from the bus and enjoy a generous 60 minutes of free time to explore the offerings at Carmel Plaza at their leisure.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
San Francisco
Gray Line Fisherman’s Wharf Departure Location 2805 Leavenworth St. Arrive by 7:45 AM to check-in Bus Departs at 8:00 AM Although there is no physical location, you'll easily spot Pomegranate Café directly across the street. Simply wait there, and our representative will meet you.
Meeting point
San Francisco
Union Square Departure Location 478 Post St. Arrive by 7:25 AM to check-in Bus Departs at 7:40 AM Although there is no physical location, you'll find Encore Café situated right next door. For boarding the bus, simply head across the street to meet our representative and board the bus.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Gray Line Fisherman’s Wharf Departure Location 2805 Leavenworth St. Arrive by 7:45 AM to check-in Bus Departs at 8:00 AM Although there is no physical location, you'll easily spot Pomegranate Café directly across the street. Simply wait there, and our representative will meet you.
Ends at
Union Square Departure Location 478 Post St. Arrive by 7:25 AM to check-in Bus Departs at 7:40 AM Although there is no physical location, you'll find Encore Café situated right next door. For boarding the bus, simply head across the street to meet our representative and board the bus.
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
- Wed, Sat, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Gray Line San Francisco
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 2,238 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
2,238 verified traveler reviews for Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great Day
Definitely a fun and nice experience. Great weather, great ride, and not too much traffic. Overall a great trip!
via Viator
Monterey and Carmel trip
On time, the driver was very professional, she handled the emergency with composure and calmness. Will Recommend.
via Viator
Marvellous Monterey
Danny was a great guide. Super helpful and knowledgeable.
Response from the operator: Thank you for the great review! We’re so glad you enjoyed the tour with Danny. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with him!
via Tripadvisor
Great Tour
Great tour with a lot to see. Donny, our tour guide, did a great job getting us to all of the stops. It was a long day, but very enjoyable.
Response from the operator: Thank you for the great review! We’re glad you enjoyed the tour and had a great day with Donny!
via Viator
Great tour!!
Great tour!! Have a great time with our tour guide Donny. It was a long day, but we seen a lot.
Response from the operator: Thank you for the great review! We’re so glad you had a great time with Donny and enjoyed the tour!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 11 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Wed, Sat, Sun
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 783
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Gray Line San Francisco, who run 19 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 61.2.
See everything Gray Line San Francisco runsWhy this scores 74
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for San Francisco.
How much does Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF cost?
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Prices start at $129 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 Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF 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 Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 74 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.2/5 across 2,238 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in San Francisco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF?
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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 Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF 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 Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF?
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Around 783 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 Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF 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 Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF?
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Included: Transport by air-conditioned luxury motor-coach with a professional guide; Day-trip to Monterey and Carmel; 2 hours stop at Monterey Bay; 1 hour stop at Carmel by the Sea; and Entrance fee for the 17-Mile Drive Included. Not included: Gratuities; Food and drinks; Hotel Pick-up & drop-off; and Monterey Bay Aquarium. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF?
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Gray Line Fisherman’s Wharf Departure Location 2805 Leavenworth St. Arrive by 7:45 AM to check-in Bus Departs at 8:00 AM Although there is no physical location. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF 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 Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF?
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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 Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; and Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF 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 Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF?
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Across 2,238 reviews averaging 4.2 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
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