Top Monterey & Carmel Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Look for whales as they migrate through the waters of the Pacific Ocean off of California on this whale-watching cruise from Monterey. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the whales and their habitat as you search for gray whales (most common), humpback and blue whales, and other marine life such as dolphins and sea lions during your cruise.

With a 99% success rate, this is how you up your odds of seeing whales on your visit to Monterey. On board one of the industry’s most comfortable boats, you’ll float out to a protected sanctuary to view humpback whales, gray whales, blue whales, killer whales, sperm whales, and other wild creatures, including dolphins, sea turtles, sea lions, otters, and more.

Get your bearings in a new city easily with help from this Carmel-by-the-Sea Walking Tour. Prebook your tour and guarantee your guided walk on the day of your preference. See highlights of Carmel such as the First Murphy House, Church of the Wayfarer, Tuck Box, Hog's Breath Inn, and more, while you hear history and stories of the city from your guide.

Discover a new side of Monterey—and get up close and personal with its wetlands and wildlife—on this family-friendly boat tour. Pick between morning and afternoon tour times, and hop aboard your electric-powered catamaran. The boat offers up-close views of the Elkhorn Slough, an estuary that’s home to animals ranging from sea lions and otters to bird species and more. Learn more as you go from your naturalist guide.

Looking for the perfect way to wind down after a busy day in Monterey? Skip the crowds on land and set sail into the sunset on this relaxing evening cruise. Enjoy a drink as you travel across the bay, and soak up unparalleled ocean views. There's even the chance to spot marine life such as sea lions, otters, dolphins, and whales. With great music and a laidback captain at the helm, it’s the perfect way to end your day on a high note.

Discover the natural and manmade beauty of 17-Mile Drive on an electric bike tour from Pacific Grove. The e-bike allows you to cover more ground without getting worn out. The tour is great for the whole family, with the option to ride tandem with children weighing up to 120 lbs (54 kgs). Along the way, learn about the area from your guide and make stops at impressive viewpoints.

Explore at your own pace with this full-day kayak rental experience in Monterey Bay. Get the chance to encounter otters, seals, and sea lions while exploring the bay waters. Take the opportunity to observe diverse marine life and birds up close. This rental package includes all you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience: splash gear for warmth, a dry bag for your electronics, and no time limit on your kayaking excursion.

As featured in the Los Angeles Times and San Francisco Chronicle, CARMEL WALKS is the premier walking tour voted "best of" by Trip Advisor in 2024. You'll embark on a delightful 2-hour adventure with a lively, well-informed local guide through the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea—a village celebrated for its storybook architecture, scenic coastal beauty, and vibrant artistic legacy. Along the way, you’ll uncover hidden gems, hear the stories behind the town’s most colorful characters, and gain fresh insights into the culture that makes Carmel truly one of a kind. Meander through charming streets and secret passageways, explore award-winning galleries, lush gardens, and historic landmarks steeped in legend. The listed itinerary is just the beginning—plenty of unlisted delights are in store. Well behaved dogs are most welcomed on this fun walk too. Let us show you the very best of this whimsical village! You’ll leave inspired, enchanted, and—dare we say—feeling like a local.

Take an unforgettable boat ride in Monterey Bay to spot local marine wildlife, from humpback whales to Great white sharks to dolphins. This whale-watching adventure takes you to one of the best spots in the state to spot some of these majestic creatures. Sail over Monterey Bay Canyon, which is a nutrient-rich area known for attracting all kinds of underwater wildlife.

Embark on a fun and informative ghost tour through the streets of Monterey with a local guide who can’t wait to share their favorite spooky stories with you. You’ll hear about a side of the city most tourists won’t as you walk through the town, from the Colton Hall Museum and Jail to the Larkin House. There will be plenty for history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts alike to learn.

Explore Joshua Tree National Park and Palm Springs at your own pace with two self-guided driving audio tours in one package. GPS-triggered narration plays automatically as you follow the recommended routes, providing historical background and local insight without a group schedule. Download in advance and use offline for flexible touring. With lifetime access, this bundle is suitable for extended stays or return visits to the area.

Drive through the streets of Monterey and Pacific Grove in a Sea Car, a 2-seat vehicle with GPS-enabled tour narrative. Skip renting a car and make your own way around Fisherman's Wharf, Lover's Point, and Cannery Row.

Enjoy sailing the Monterey Bay without engine noise. You will be offered a complimentary beverage after your captain hoists the sails and catches the wind to make for a peaceful and exciting cruise on the bay. On the way out of the harbor, look out for sea lions, sea otters, and harbor seals. Once you pass the breakwater, the sailing fun begins and you can relax with a beverage while your captain takes care of you. Be sure to be on the look out for whales and dolphins while you sail! Our spacious and comfortable catamaran is the perfect vehicle for exploring the bay and searching for wildlife! You have a chance to see sea otter, sea lions, harbor seals, dolphins and whales!

Enjoy an independent sightseeing tour by GoCar to discover Monterey Bay and the Central Coast at your own pace. Aboard a 2-seater, GPS-guided convertible that navigates itself, you can cruise along the Pacific shoreline or through town. Listen to recorded commentary about attractions such as Monterey’s historical center, and admire views of the ocean. The GoCar tells you where to drive, from Cannery Row and more.

Discover the scenic beauty of 17-Mile Drive and Pebble Beach with a guided electric bike tour with a small group. Starting in Carmel-by-the-Sea, follow your guide along the winding road, with stops at iconic landmarks and viewpoints. Along the way, learn interesting facts and history about the area from your guide.

Explore so many wonderful spots in Big Sur with this self-drive audio tour that goes down the Pacific Coast Highway, California’s Highway 1. Just download the app, then get the map and password, and your route is all there, marked for you. You can go at your own pace, and choose where you want to stop and spend a little extra time.

Sophisticated and glamorous, Carmel-By-The-Sea sits on the Pacific just two hours south of San Francisco. The town isn’t all ritz, though—11 fairytale cottages line the hilly streets like something from a children’s book. On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll escape the crowds and explore the houses at your pace, led by a knowledgeable guide right in your pocket.

Go on an adventure on your own terms riding on the back of an electric bike along the California coast. Stop and cycle at will and at your own pace, saving time both and energy on the back of your rented e-bike and seeing way more than you would have done on foot. Monterey Bay is your oyster, with plenty of time to stop for lunch, coffee, and delicious gelato.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a vibrant community that’s no doubt inspired by the dazzling scenery that surrounds it. Find your own sense of wonder and inspiration during this electric bike tour. Hop on two wheels and let the small yet strong motor power you as you pedal around the Golden Rectangle of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This oceanside ride is a great way to explore the air at a reasonable pace.

Explore Monterey’s famously scenic 17-Mile Drive along the Pacific Coast—and learn the stories behind the sights as you go—with this private self-led audio driving tour. Upon booking, download the tour and use it as many times as you like. The live GPS map will keep you on track, and the audio tour functions without Wi-Fi. See highlights like Cannery Row, Spanish Bay, Lone Cypress, and much more as you go.

If you’re looking to explore Point Lobos but find yourself short on time, this Point Lobos Nature Hike from Carmel-by-the-Sea fits in big highlights in just a little amount of time. A guide knows the best ways around the wooded and cliff-filled areas so you can see more of its beauty. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as otters, seals, deer, and sealions while you hike along with your small group.

California’s warm climate and rich soils make it a great spot for vineyards. Learn from local sommeliers who will teach you how the region’s wines are crafted on this small-group wine-tasting and walking tour, while you sample some of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s best local varieties. Then, head out for a walk around the city, exploring popular highlights and hidden gems.

World class private tour, completely controlled by you! Embark on a journey to heavenly Carmel and discover the breathtaking wonders of the legendary 17-Mile Drive! Prepare for an unforgettable tour as you soar along stunning coastal cliffs, where the mighty Pacific Ocean crashes against rocky shores in a mesmerizing display of power. Marvel at the mesmerizing marriage of nature and luxury as you traverse the scenic route, passing world-renowned golf courses. Commentary by Bill Devoe, a local legend! This tour has been written by a local, who knows the very best spots of Santa Cruz. We have the best beach in all of Northern California, the best views, and best food and drinks available! Don't worry about other people, this tour is completely tailored to you with the Pintours App With our app, you can pause the tour, and check out the locations as long as you want! You can skip a stop you don't like, and you have all the best information about each stop at your fingertips.