All Monterey & Carmel Tours & Excursions in 2026

Explore many wonderful spots in Big Sur with this self-drive audio tour along California's Pacific Coast Highway. Download the app to get the map and password, then follow the marked route at your own pace, choosing where to stop and spend extra time. Note that the Overlook Trail to McWay Falls is currently closed due to repairs; the only viewpoint is a small roadside area along Highway 1.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Go on a spectacular whale watching tour of the Monterey Bay Sanctuary with your experienced captain narrating the entire way. The boats range from 53’ to 70’, and they are equipped with bathrooms and plenty of seating. Your captain will guide you through the bay and find where the whales are playing. You just need to be ready and waiting with your eyes and cameras.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This individual private day trip in a luxury car for you, one to 12 persons. The cost varies based on the number of people. We go Monterey, 17 Mile Drive, Pebble Beach. Then on Big Sur Highway one to Point Lobos, Garrapata State Beach, Rocky Point, and Bixby Bridge at your own pace. With a chauffeur driven car, you don't need to worry about which roads to take and spending time looking for suitable parking, rest stops etc. These trips are not on a large vehicle with many participants, fixed timed stops and narration. Just you with family or friends. An experienced local resident would be the driver guide for your personal requirements. This trip can be customized and is ideal for travelers seeking an exclusive and personal unstructured experience.

What makes this Big Sur tour truly unique is our over 25 years of unparalleled expertise in guiding educational adventures through the majestic Monterey County, offering you a deep dive into the natural wonders of the Big Sur coast and fascinating insights into the ancient redwood trees that define this region. Our carefully curated itinerary ensures you experience the best, from a brief stop at an iconic 1932 concrete bridge offering spectacular coastal views, to the quirky charm of The River Inn where you can refresh and see the famous chairs in the Big Sur River. Prepare for an awe-inspiring moment at the highest viewpoint on Highway 1 in California, providing a spectacular 180-degree panorama of the dramatic coastline, before culminating your journey with a visit to the historic Big Sur Lodge for an intimate, guided nature walk in an old-growth redwood forest, complete with a unique Big Sur River crossing.

Follow a delicious trail of local treats through historic Monterey on a small-group food tour that includes plenty of tastings for a full lunch. Committing to lunch at a single restaurant means missing out on the diverse cuisines that make Monterey food so interesting; try a little bit of everything as you go from neighborhood restaurants to frozen treats and California wine, learning about Monterey history along the way.

Fall is one your favorite times of the season for whale watching in Monterey Bay, where Humpback whales feed non stop before their migration south. This 3-hour tour aboard ENOCEAN’s premium 6-passenger vessel offers an intimate experience for wildlife enthusiasts. With the ocean calming in the morning, you'll enjoy unobstructed views and comfortable space while searching for Humpbacks, Killer whales, dolphins, and more. Your knowledgeable captain will provide insights into the local ecosystem, enriching your adventure. Plus, if you don’t spot a whale, enjoy a complimentary return trip, ensuring an unforgettable outing. - 3-hour whale watching tour on a premium 6-passenger vessel - Guaranteed whale sighting or a complimentary return trip - Expert captain/naturalist providing insights and answering questions - Limited to 6 guests for a personal and immersive experience -Professional photographer onboard taking photos for you

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. This tour is offered in English and French to accommodate more guests.

World class private tour, completely controlled by you! Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the stunning Big Sur coastline with our exhilarating driving tour! Feel the ocean breeze caress your face as you journey through breathtaking cliffs, winding roads, and towering redwood forests. Explore hidden gems as you stop to marvel at jaw-dropping viewpoints, pristine beaches, and cascading waterfalls. Let the rhythm of the waves guide you as you savor delicious coastal cuisine and immerse yourself in the bohemian charm of quaint seaside towns. Commentary by Bill Devoe, a local legend! This tour has been written by a local, who knows the very best spots of Big Sur.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.

This is a custom, private trip. Starting times and excursion locations are your choice according to your interests, energy level and pre-determined places of interest to visit. To explore this beautiful coastline with you is our goal, and to introduce you to the incredibly diverse area that is Big Sur is our pleasure!

The Elkhorn Slough is home to the largest population of sea otters in California, as well as more than 300 species of birds. Get an overview of the local wildlife with insights from a guide with a degree in marine science on this guided boat tour of the wetland. Enjoy unobstructed views from the vessel, and preserve the memories with souvenirs from a science and nature-themed gift shop.

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.

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!

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.