Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco in San Francisco
San Francisco, United States

Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco

Outty Ranking 43 5.0 · 2 traveler reviews48 hoursFrom $2759

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September 2026

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Adults

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Age 12 and under

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From, per person$2759
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Outty Ranking

43/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 2 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco worth booking?

Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco is a 48-hour experience in San Francisco, United States, from $2759 per person. It scores 43 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look, based on a 5/5 rating across 2 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
43 / 100
Rating
5/5 (2)
Duration
48 hours
From
$2759 per person

2-Day Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel Getaway with Hearst Castle – Coastal Wonders & Hidden Gems Escape on a magical 2-day journey through California’s most breathtaking coastal wonders! This all-inclusive private tour featu

What you get

    About this experience

    2-Day Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel Getaway with Hearst Castle – Coastal Wonders & Hidden Gems Escape on a magical 2-day journey through California’s most breathtaking coastal wonders! This all-inclusive private tour features Big Sur’s majestic cliffs and redwoods, the iconic Hearst Castle (tickets included), and unforgettable stops in charming Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and along the 17-Mile Drive. Unlike rushed day trips, this relaxing overnight adventure includes hotel accommodation and lets you explore scenic Highway 1, Santa Cruz, Half Moon Bay, San Simeon, Cambria, and secret coastal gems at your own pace. Enjoy guided walks, sweeping ocean vistas, hidden beaches, and historic landmarks—all in the comfort of a luxury vehicle with your own expert local guide. Ideal for couples, families, and all nature lovers. ✨ Private, flexible, and worry-free—this is the coastal California road trip of a lifetime!

    What's included

    Included

    • Fully private guided tours in luxury vehicles
    • One tour inside Hearst Castle + 1 night hotel included
    • All Fees and Taxes
    • In-vehicle air conditioning
    • Complimentary pickup and drop off anywhere in downtown San Francisco, Fisherman’ Wharf, Presidio

    Not included

    • Sorry, we cannot transport passengers with disabilities as our vehicles are not equipped for that
    • Tips/gratuities are voluntary payments to your guides as a gesture of appreciation for good service
    • Meals
    • Alcoholic beverages

    What you'll see and do

    1. Hearst Castle

      Discover majestic Hearst Castle, see Big Sur wonders, Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Book this 2-day worry-free adventure and discover Big Sur natural wonders and California giant redwoods, visit Monterey top attractions, enjoy a guided tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea, drive on the famous 17-Mile Drive, explore Santa Cruz and Half-Moon Bay. This is the ideal getaway to enjoy nature at its best without having to rush to get back to San Francisco during peak traffic. The world-famous Hearst Castle should be on everyone's bucket list. This iconic landmark is a masterpiece of art and architecture and it played an important role in several large historical events in US History. Take an unforgettable insider discovery road trip to explore California's iconic Central Coast’s world-class attractions, glorious beaches, oceanside spots, seaside towns, old villages and hidden gems. This two-day hassle-free private tour package includes hotel , Hearst Castle and state park entrance fees.

      960 minutes here · Admission included

    Where it starts and ends

    Hotel pickup

    Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 10 minutes before departure.

    Options you can book

    • Private SUV Tour

      Private Tour By SUV Pickup included

    • Private Tour by Van (minibus)

      Pickup included

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 14 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Golden Horizon Tours

    Know before you go

    • Specialized infant seats are available
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Complimentary pickup and drop off anywhere in downtown San Francisco, Fisherman’ Wharf, Presidio, Mission District, Nob Hill, Japan town, Chinatown, Sausalito. Other location maybe added as well
    • Our policy regarding passengers with disabilities: Sorry, our vehicles are not equipped for passengers with disabilities and therefore, our commercial insurance doesn’t allow us to transport persons with any kind of disabilities for the sake of their own safety and well-being

    Photos

    Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco in San Francisco, photo 2Hearst castle toursPrivate Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco in San Francisco, photo 4Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco in San Francisco, photo 5Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco in San Francisco, photo 6Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco in San Francisco, photo 7

    Traveler reviews

    2 verified traveler reviews for Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

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    Stephanie_R · October 2025

    Greatest tour guide ever.

    Mary was an excellent driver and tour guide. The visit to Hearst Castle and coastline drive was breathtaking.

    Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey, and Carmel from San Francisco. 🌟 Mary will be delighted to know she made your experience memorable. Her passion for storytelling and deep knowledge of California’s Central Coast truly help bring every stop to life. We’re glad the breathtaking views of Big Sur, the Pacific Coast Highway, and Hearst Castle made a lasting impression — this region is one of the most beautiful destinations in California, and it’s always a pleasure to share it with our guests. For future adventures, we invite you to explore more of our luxury private tours at Golden Horizon Travel, including Yosemite, Sequoia, Napa Valley wine tasting, Silicon Valley, and more. Each tour is designed to offer a personalized, comfortable, and unforgettable experience. Thank you again for choosing us, and we hope to welcome you back for another five-star adventure soon! Warm regards, Golden Horizon Travel – Private Custom Tours of California Thank you, Nick Help Desk & Operations

    via Viator

    jpeek345 · March 2020

    A breath taking land.

    Mary McGarvey was our tour guide and we had very informed and fun trip from San Francisco to Big Sur, Carmel and ultimately Hearst Castle. Marys 'Janis Joplin-like' features (don't tell her I said that) only added to her excellent background info at all points. She seemed ready to regal us on any other stop that we could have chosen along the way. I learned so much from Mary as a representative of Golden Horizon Tours, her surrender to the field of "tour guide", her passionate knowledge of California but was especially impressed with getting to know the person behind it all. Sincerely, Jay-Justin Peek

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    48 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $2759 to $7998
    Hotel pickup
    Included for all travelers
    Booked in 30 days
    1
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Why this scores 43

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)71
    Review evidence (18% weight)14
    Booking momentum (14% weight)10
    Value for money (12% weight)41
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)55
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for San Francisco.

    How much does Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco cost?

    +

    Prices start at $2759 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 Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco take?

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    Plan for about 48 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 Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 43 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 2 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable outdoors in San Francisco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco?

    +

    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 48-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco?

    +

    Around 1 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?

    +

    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 48-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Private Tour of Hearst Castle, Big Sur, Monterey & Carmel from San Francisco 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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.

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