Big Sur Monterey and Carmel Tour From San Francisco
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
From the spectacular rocky ocean waves to the iconic towns, Highway 1 from San Francisco provides an experience you rarely find.
This tour combines the best of California in one day. We begin in Monterey Bay, that has unparalleled sea life. You may even spot a whale! You will have time for coffee at Cannery Row.
Next is the famous 17-Mile Scenic Drive (including a stop at golf resort Pebble Beach). There will be photo stops at the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, Lovers Point or Point Pinos.
We visit the beach town of Carmel, home to celebrities such as Clint Eastwood, where you can visit quaint shops, artisinal bakeries and coffee shops.
Lastly, we will see the Bixby Bridge and Hurricane Point, the iconic highlights of Big Sur.
Depending on the time of the year, there may be a spectacular Northern California sunset over the ocean as we make our way back to San Francisco.
Available options
Big Sur Monterey and Carmel Tour From San Francisco
Pickup included
What's included
Hotel Pick UP (within our zones)
Entrance Fees For 17 Mile Drive
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
Enjoy a relaxing drive south past Silicon Valley and through Gilroy and Castroville, the garlic and artichoke capitals of the world before arriving in Monterey.
2
Stop 2
We arrive in Monterey along the awi-inspiring Monterey Bay. We will stop at the town’s famous Cannery Row to grab a coffee and fresh pastry at Steinbeck Plaza.
3
Drive along the rocky shores of Pacific Grove, known as “Butterfly Town USA” because of the thousands of Monarchs which migrate every year. ]We will drive down the private 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach -- famous vistas, exquisite homes, and maybe some local wildlife. Stops along the way may include Bird and Seal Rock and the Lone Cypress. And golf lovers will be able to stop at the famous 18th green at Pebble Beach.
4
Free-time in Carmel-by-the-Sea – a storybook village with artisan bakeries, exclusive stores and wine-tasting. You will have time to experience the charm of town that has attracted writers and film-industry luminaries for over 100 years.
5
Stop 5
Shoreline drive to Bixby Bridge and Hurricane Point. This is a great time for photo stops of these icons of Big Sur that many people will recognize from many films and television series.
What's not included
Meals
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About San Francisco
San Francisco, a city nestled between the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay, is renowned for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, steep rolling hills, and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its progressive values, diverse neighborhoods, and world-class cuisine, it offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty.
Top Attractions
Golden Gate Bridge
The iconic Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Spanning the Golden Gate Strait, it connects San Francisco to Marin County and offers stunning views of the city and bay.
Architecture/Historical
1-2 hours for a visit, longer for a walk or bike ride
Free to visit, $10-$15 for parking
Alcatraz Island
Alcatraz Island is a former federal prison that housed some of America's most notorious criminals. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction offering guided tours and exhibits about its history.
Historical/Museum
2-3 hours for a tour
$45.60 for adults, $30.25 for youth (12-20)
Golden Gate Park
Golden Gate Park is a large urban park spanning over 1,000 acres. It features gardens, museums, lakes, and recreational facilities, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
Nature/Park
Half-day to full day
Free to enter, varies by attraction
Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling waterfront district known for its seafood restaurants, souvenir shops, and attractions like Pier 39 and the Sea Lions.
Entertainment/Shopping/Dining
Half-day to full day
Free to explore, varies by attraction and dining
Chinatown
San Francisco's Chinatown is the oldest and one of the largest in North America. It offers a vibrant cultural experience with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.
Cultural/Historical
Half-day to full day
Free to explore, varies by dining and shopping
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sourdough Bread
San Francisco is famous for its tangy, chewy sourdough bread, made with a unique local yeast strain. It's often served with butter or used for sandwiches and clam chowder.
Bread
Contains gluten, can be made with or without dairy
Dungeness Crab
Dungeness crab is a local delicacy, known for its sweet, tender meat. It's often served steamed, grilled, or in crab cakes, crab louie, or cioppino.
Seafood
Contains shellfish
Mission Burrito
The Mission burrito is a large, hearty burrito filled with rice, beans, meat, cheese, and salsa. It's a popular takeout item and a staple of San Francisco's food scene.
Main Course
Contains gluten, can be made with or without meat
Ghirardelli Chocolate
Ghirardelli chocolate is a beloved San Francisco brand, known for its rich, creamy chocolate. It's available in various forms, including bars, squares, and ice cream sundaes.
Dessert
Contains dairy, may contain nuts
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Marin Headlands
Kayaking in the San Francisco Bay
Biking across the Golden Gate Bridge
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Picnic in Golden Gate Park
Wine tasting in Napa Valley
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a performance at the San Francisco Symphony
Best Time to Visit
September to November
This period offers pleasant weather with less fog, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts numerous festivals and events during these months.
13-22°C
55-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin), Tagalog, Russian
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Standard Time (PST, GMT-8) or Pacific Daylight Time (PDT, GMT-7) during daylight saving time
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas
San Francisco is generally a safe city for tourists, with a strong police presence and a commitment to public safety. However, some areas can be risky, especially at night, and visitors should take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded or touristy areas
- • Use common sense and trust your instincts if a situation feels unsafe
Getting there
By air
- San Francisco International Airport • 22 km (14 miles) south of downtown
- Oakland International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) east of downtown
By train
Emeryville Station, Richmond Station
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station, Salesforce Transit Center
Getting around
Public transport
BART is a fast and efficient way to get around San Francisco and the Bay Area. It connects the city to airports, suburbs, and regional destinations.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
North Beach
Haight-Ashbury
Mission District
Castro
Marina District
Day trips
Sausalito
15 km (9 miles) north of San Francisco • Half day to full day
Sausalito is a charming waterfront town known for its historic homes, art galleries, and stunning views of the San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate Bridge. It's a popular destination for cycling, dining, and shopping.
Napa Valley
80 km (50 miles) north of San Francisco • Full day or overnight
Napa Valley is a world-renowned wine region known for its award-winning wineries, picturesque vineyards, and gourmet dining. It's a popular destination for wine tasting, dining, and relaxation.
Muir Woods National Monument
25 km (15 miles) north of San Francisco • Half day to full day
Muir Woods National Monument is a protected redwood forest located just north of San Francisco. It's home to some of the tallest and oldest redwood trees in the world, offering a peaceful and scenic escape from the city.
Festivals
San Francisco Pride • June
Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival • August
Union Street Italian Festival • October
Pro tips
- Use public transportation, biking, or walking to get around the city, as traffic and parking can be challenging
- Layer your clothing, as the weather can be unpredictable and change quickly
- Try the local specialties, such as sourdough bread, Dungeness crab, and Mission burritos
- Visit popular attractions like Alcatraz Island and the Golden Gate Bridge early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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