Private Big Sur and Carmel Scenic Drive from San Jose

San Jose , United States

Private Big Sur and Carmel Scenic Drive from San Jose

Active

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the stunning beauty of Big Sur, Carmel, and Monterey at your own pace on a private car tour. This adventure allows you the freedom to explore iconic landmarks like the Bixby Creek Bridge and the Mission District while enjoying the picturesque coastline along State Route 1. With personalized recommendations for photo spots and attractions, you can create your perfect itinerary. Experience the tranquility of the forested 17-Mile Drive and wander through the Monterey Bay Aquarium or Fisherman's Wharf before returning to San Jose. Enjoy the flexibility of pick-up from your accommodation and the comfort of a private vehicle.

- Scenic drive along California’s breathtaking coastline
- Customized itinerary with personal recommendations
- Visit highlights like Carmel, Big Sur, and Monterey
- Private car ensures a comfortable and hassle-free experience

Available options

Carmel Monterey and Big Sur

Pickup included

Up to 6 people tour

Up to 6<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Private tour

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)

Fuel surcharge

Detailed itinerary

Santa Cruz is a vibrant coastal city in Northern California, known for its surf culture, beaches, the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk amusement park, and the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC). It's the county seat of Santa Cruz County, situated on Monterey Bay, offering a mix of laid-back beach town vibes, redwood forests, and a unique, eclectic community with surfing roots dating back to the late 1800s

Stop 2

The Bixby Creek Bridge is a historic, picturesque concrete open-spandrel arch bridge in Big Sur, California, completed in 1932 on Highway 1. It is one of the most photographed bridges in the US, known for its scenic coastal views

Stop 3

Big Sur is a famous stretch of scenic, wild coastline known for dramatic cliffs, redwood forests, and its artistic and literary history

Garrapata State Park is a state park in Big Sur featuring two miles of rugged beachfront, coastal bluffs, and redwood-filled canyons. Located along Highway 1 south of Carmel, it is a popular, often free, destination for hiking, whale watching, and photography.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is an affluent, highly walkable one-square-mile coastal village in California known for its storybook "fairy tale" cottages, white-sand beach, and artistic, romantic charm. It features no street addresses, hidden courtyards, art galleries, upscale dining, and is exceptionally pet-friendly. The atmosphere is quaint, cozy, and scenic, often featuring foggy mornings and mild, temperate weathe

Stop 6

The 17-Mile Drive is a famous, privately owned scenic road on California's Monterey Peninsula, winding through Pebble Beach, offering stunning Pacific coastline views, famous golf courses like Pebble Beach Golf Links, iconic landmarks such as the Lone Cypress, and opportunities to see wildlife like sea lions and otters. It's a popular tourist attraction with a gate fee, known for its luxury homes and natural beauty, connecting Pacific Grove and Carmel.

Monterey is a historic, scenic coastal city on California’s Central Coast. Famous for the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row, it offers a mix of marine life, 19th-century Spanish-era architecture, and 17-mile drive coastal views. As California's first capital, it is rich in maritime history, culture, and tourism.

What's not included

Food and drinks

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN ES

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About San Jose

San Jose is the heart of Silicon Valley, a bustling city known for its technological innovations, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful natural surroundings. It offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure, making it a compelling destination for both business and leisure travelers.

Top Attractions

San Jose Museum of Art

The San Jose Museum of Art is a renowned institution showcasing contemporary and modern art. It features a diverse collection of works by local, national, and international artists.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate ($10-$20)

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo

Happy Hollow Park & Zoo is a family-friendly amusement park and zoo that offers a fun and educational experience for children and adults alike. It features a variety of rides, animal exhibits, and play areas.

Family/Entertainment Half-day to full-day Moderate ($20-$40 per person)

Computer History Museum

The Computer History Museum is a fascinating institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of computing and technology. It features a wide range of exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate ($10-$20)

Almaden Quicksilver County Park

Almaden Quicksilver County Park is a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a historic mercury mine and features scenic trails and views.

Nature Half-day to full-day Free

Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum

The Rosicrucian Egyptian Museum is a unique institution that houses a vast collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and hieroglyphic texts. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of ancient Egypt.

Museum 1-2 hours Moderate ($10-$20)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gourmet Pizza

San Jose is home to a variety of pizzerias offering gourmet and artisanal pizzas with unique toppings and high-quality ingredients.

Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Mexican Cuisine

San Jose has a large Mexican community, and the city is known for its authentic and delicious Mexican food, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Sushi

San Jose is home to a thriving sushi scene, with many high-quality sushi restaurants offering fresh and innovative dishes.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan options available

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Surfing Kayaking Whale watching Spa treatments Beachcombing Picnicking

Best Time to Visit

September to November

This period offers pleasant weather with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-8 (Pacific Time Zone)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

San Jose is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety, such as being aware of their surroundings and keeping valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit or deserted areas

Getting there

By air

Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport • 6.4 km (4 miles) from city center
San Francisco International Airport • 64 km (40 miles) from city center

By train

San Jose Diridon Station

By bus

Downtown San Jose Transit Center

Getting around

Public transport

The VTA Light Rail system is a convenient and affordable way to get around San Jose and the surrounding areas. It consists of multiple lines that connect key destinations within the city and beyond.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown San Jose Willow Glen Cisco Systems Campus Almaden Valley

Day trips

Santa Cruz

48 km (30 miles) • Full day

Santa Cruz is a charming coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, historic boardwalk, and outdoor activities. It offers a variety of attractions and experiences for visitors of all ages.

Monterey

113 km (70 miles) • Full day

Monterey is a historic coastal city known for its beautiful coastline, marine life, and cultural attractions. It is home to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and offers a variety of outdoor activities and scenic drives.

San Francisco

72 km (45 miles) • Full day to overnight

San Francisco is a vibrant and diverse city known for its iconic landmarks, cultural attractions, and unique neighborhoods. It offers a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors of all interests.

Festivals

San Jose Jazz Festival • August San Jose Earthquakes Matches • March to October San Jose Pride • August

Pro tips

Visit the Tech Museum of Innovation to learn about the latest technological advancements and innovations in Silicon Valley.
Explore the diverse culinary scene in San Jose, with a focus on fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients.
Take a day trip to nearby destinations, such as Santa Cruz, Monterey, or San Francisco, for a variety of outdoor activities and scenic views.
Check out local events and festivals, such as the San Jose Jazz Festival or San Jose Pride, for a unique and culturally rich experience.
Use public transportation, walk, or bike to get around the city, as it is an affordable and convenient way to explore San Jose.