Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF

San Francisco, USA

High interest

Booked 3 times today.

11 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English

Why travelers loved this

4.2

· heather_c ·

Jul 2026

Don, our tour guide, a local native Northern Californian, was great. Friendly, so knowledgeable regarding SF and California, both Environmentally and Historically. Created a wonderful experience from San Francisco to Carmel with fun stops along the journey to capture memorable shots of the beautiful coastline and towns. Thoroughly enjoyable adventure.

· Bell_Y ·

Jun 2026

Very nice trip, a full day and lots of hours in the car. Yet, beautiful places and scenery, with lots of stops. Monetary and the 17-mile drive are stunning.

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Overview

Drive down one of the most scenic roads in California on this full-day tour from San Francisco. Cruise along the coast-hugging Highway 1, passing Pebble Beach on the iconic 17-Mile Drive. Enjoy free time to explore Monterey, where you can stroll down Steinbeck’s Cannery Row or visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium (own expense). Then enjoy free time to explore Carmel-by-the-Sea before returning to San Francisco.

An easy way to visit Monterey and Carmel in one day from San Francisco
Relax with San Francisco pickup and drop-off included
Enjoy plenty of stops with photo opportunities along 17 Mile Drive
Free time to explore Monterey and Carmel-by-the Sea

What's Included

Day-trip to Monterey and Carmel
Entrance fee for the 17-Mile Drive Included
Transport by air-conditioned luxury motor-coach with a professional guide
2 hours stop at Monterey Bay
1 hour stop at Carmel by the Sea
Stops at Pigeon Point Lighthouse, Pebble Beach, Bird Rock and the Lone Cypress

Gratuities

Not included
Food and drinks
Hotel Pick-up & drop-off
Monterey Bay Aquarium

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting points

Select a meeting point

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End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Start time
.7:40 am

Itinerary

Hop aboard your luxury coach in central San Francisco, cruise down scenic Highway 1 and let your guide handle the driving while you soak up views of the Pacific Ocean.

After curving around the Monterey Peninsula, stop in the coastal city of Monterey. Enjoy free time here to grab a fresh seafood lunch on the pier (own expense), browse the shops of Cannery Row, or visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium (own expense).

Continue along the coast with a ride down 17-Mile Drive, home to the prestigious Pebble Beach Golf Course and the Lone Cypress tree. Listen for the barking clamor of Seal Rock with a stop along this low-lying coastal road framed by mansions and ocean vistas. Further along, visit the chic coastal community of Carmel-by-the-Sea, where you can browse high-end galleries and see remnants of a historic Spanish mission.

Your full-day tour concludes with drop-off in the evening in San Francisco.

Pacific Coast Highway (Pass By)

Pigeon Point Light Station

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Davenport

20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Monterey Bay (Pass By)

Cannery Row

2 hours • Admission Ticket Free

17-Mile Drive

1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Bird Rock Vista Point

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Lone Cypress

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Pebble Beach Golf Links

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Carmel by the sea (Pass By)

Carmel Plaza

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed

Infants must sit on laps
Most travelers can participate
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 45 travelers

Supplied by

Frequently Asked Question (1)

Q:Is there a restroom onboard the Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive tour?

A:Yes restrooms are on the bus. We also make stops to use the restroom during the tour.

Aug 2023

The answers provided are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Traveler Photos

Gallery picture 1 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 2 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 3 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 4 (from a traveler's review)

Gallery picture 5 (from a traveler's review)

Featured review

OksoonKatie_S

I came from the UK on a work trip and didn’t have much time, so this one-day tour was perfect for me. It truly turned into a wonderful day. Our driver, Alvin, was gentle, knowledgeable, and had a great sense of humour. Because it was a Saturday, there was a bit of traffic, but the journey itself was enjoyable. Some people mentioned there was too much time on the bus and not enough at each attraction, but that was something I expected. This tour is designed for those who want to see these beautiful places within a short time, and I’m very happy with it. More than anything, I feel grateful for the opportunity. We often take things for granted in life, but today reminded me how special these moments are. It was good value for money, and I’ve made beautiful memories. I’d love to book this trip again with a friend next time. Thank you to Alvin and the whole team for looking after us so well.

Reviews

4.2

based on 2,219 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

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It was a nice day with...

Cynthia_R, Jul 2026

It was a nice day with many opportunities for photos. The guide was polite, informative, and kept us on schedule.

Response from Host, Aug 2026

Thank you for your kind review! We're glad you enjoyed the tour, the views, and your guide's service. We hope to see you again soon!

This was a great way to...

Deborah_M, Jul 2026

This was a great way to see the beautiful California coast without having to do the driving yourself. It was a long day…but Danila our driver made it worthwhile. There were plenty of stops along the drive for photo opportunities, rest stops, and snack stops. Time in Monterey for lunch and shopping. A stop at Pebble Beach to see the legendary 18th hole and another stop to see the birds and the seals on the rocks. Our time in Carmel was enough to walk the town and get ice cream. A little more time and we could have gotten to the beach in Carmel. Our guide was full of historical and fun facts. It was a relaxing way to see the beautiful scenery of the coast.

Response from Host, Jul 2026

Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re glad you enjoyed the coastal scenery, stops, and Danilo’s great guidance.

It's a nice way to...

DianaMaria_U, Jul 2026

It's a nice way to discover Monterey and Carmel. The coast drive is very nice and the tour guide we had was very knowledgeable and passionate about wildlife.

Response from Host, Jul 2026

Thank you for your review! We’re glad you enjoyed the coastal drive and that your guide’s passion and knowledge made the experience special.

Excellent Northern California

heather_c, Jul 2026

Response from Host, Jul 2026

Thank you for your review! We’re glad Don made your journey memorable with his knowledge and great guidance.

Driver was amazing! Very knowledgeable and informative. Thanks Cristin for a memorable experience.

sharon_s, Jul 2026

Very laid back but beautiful scenic tour. Sea lions, otters, chipmunks and deer were plentiful. Cristin was very knowledgeable.

Response from Host, Jul 2026

Thank you for your kind review! We’re glad you enjoyed the scenic tour and wildlife, and we’ll share your feedback with Cristin.

Cracked glass at front...

Jayprakash_P, Jun 2026

Cracked glass at front very hazardous. Guide was rude to one of member in group. Sufficient time given in every stop.

Response from Host, Jun 2026

Thank you for your feedback. We’re sorry to hear about your experience and will review this with our team to improve.

Indian review first time in US

Rishav_R, Jun 2026

I was travelling solo on this trip that too from a different country first time in US. The environment was very hostile and the trip is for those who are looking for options with less hassle of driving or taking trains or subways. We started from SFO stopped at some places for snacks and restrooms. We reached Monterey around 11:30 AM we stayed in Monterey for about two hours then we head over to the 17 mile drive which is fun to watch if you are beaches lover. The entire trip is around the Bay Area so you would get the feel of being around Bay pretty much everywhere.

Response from Host, Jun 2026

Thank you for your review! We’re glad you enjoyed the Bay Area scenery and the convenience of the tour. Hope to see you again soon!

Don was an excellent tour...

Alison_D, Jun 2026

Don was an excellent tour guide! So knowledgeable. Amazing tour- would have liked more time in Carmel but otherwise excellent! Thank you.

Response from Host, Jun 2026

Thank you! We’re so glad you enjoyed the tour with Don and appreciate your feedback about Carmel. Hope to see you again!

Beautiful, must do, scenic tour!

Linda_M, Jun 2026

Beautiful scenic views, comfortable ride, plenty of rest stops, Kristen was an excellent tour guide.

Response from Host, Jun 2026

Thank you! We’re glad you enjoyed the scenic views and comfortable ride. We’ll share your kind words with Kristen—hope to see you again!

Very nice tour

Bell_Y, Jun 2026

Very nice trip, a full day and lots of hours in the car. Yet, beautiful places and scenery, with lots of stops. Monetary and the 17-mile drive are stunning.

Response from Host, Jun 2026

Thank you! We're glad you enjoyed Monterey, the 17-Mile Drive, and the beautiful scenery along the way. We hope to see you again soon! 😊

Better than Expected!

Valerie_L, Jun 2026

This was an amazing experience and the tour guide was really good at narrating noteworthy occurrences throughout

Response from Host, Jun 2026

Thank you! We're delighted you had an amazing experience and enjoyed the guide's narration throughout the tour.

A Smooth, Relaxing, and Memorable Coastal Tour

Ruby_T, May 2026

I had a great experience on the Monterey, 17-Mile Drive, and Carmel-by-the-Sea tour with Gray Line. Our driver and tour guide, Don, was fantastic — incredibly knowledgeable, organized, and engaging throughout the entire trip. He shared so many interesting stories and historical insights that made the experience even more enjoyable and meaningful. The vehicle was spacious, comfortable, and had great AC, which made the long drive very relaxing. Don also managed the schedule really well, giving us enough time at each stop while still keeping everything efficient and getting us back on time. Overall, it was a very smooth and enjoyable experience, and I would definitely recommend this tour to my friends and family!

Response from Host, May 2026

Thank you for your amazing review! We’re thrilled you had such a smooth and enjoyable experience with Don, and we truly appreciate your recommendation!

Pacific Coastal Charm in a Day

Diedre_C, May 2026

A great, safe way to enjoy these California gems in just a day with a knowledgeable and friendly guide. Don had tons of information to share with us and by incorporating some of his own personal connections to these special places made it a very engaging and interesting day. He always kept our safety and time in mind, and was very tactful when any passengers needed a gentle reminder about being courteous while on the bus. The brief stops along the coastline allowed us enough time for taking photos and the two hour stay in Monterey was just enough time to do a little shopping and have a relaxing lunch by the sea. While in Carmel-by-the-Sea, we were given an hour, which provided ample time to walk to the beach and visit some of the quaint shops along the way.

Response from Host, May 2026

Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re so glad you enjoyed the day with Don and the beautiful stops along the coast. We truly appreciate your kind words!

It is beautiful to see...

Maria_G, Apr 2026

It is beautiful to see the California coast line. It does not get to the Big Sur/Bixby bridge area and that was something I really wanted to see. But, that will be an adventure for next time!

Response from Host, May 2026

Hi Maria! Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the California coastline—we hope to welcome you back for Big Sur and Bixby Bridge next time

Fantastic Tour - Danilo Made It Exceptional!

Kelly_K, Apr 2026

We had a wonderful experience on the Monterey, Carmel, and 17-Mile Drive tour, and a huge part of that was thanks to our guide, Danilo. He was absolutely fabulous - so knowledgeable about San Francisco and every stop along the way. You can tell he really knows and loves what he does, and it made the entire day more enjoyable. He truly couldn’t have been better. I’m giving this tour 5 stars because it’s definitely worth it. It’s a great way to get your bearings, see a lot in one day, and learn about places you might want to come back to explore more. That said, if I could tweak one thing, I’d suggest skipping the Davenport stop and possibly the Pigeon Point Lighthouse, as those felt less impactful compared to the rest of the itinerary. Monterey was nice, but the real highlights were 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, and Carmel - those areas are absolutely magnificent and where I would have loved even more time. Overall, I highly recommend this tour, especially if you’re short on time and want a beautiful, informative overview of the area. And once again - many thanks to Danilo. Virginia thinks you’re the best!

Response from Host, May 2026

Hi Kelly! Thank you! We’re glad you enjoyed the tour and Danilo’s guiding. We appreciate your feedback and hope to see you again soon!

We had a fun tour along...

Sakeena_A, Apr 2026

We had a fun tour along Hwy 1 to Monterey and Carmel-By-The Sea and enjoyed all the stops and activities on this trip. Our tour guide was interactive and full of fun facts to share along the way. It was tiring, but the coach ride was comfortable and allowed us to rest along the way between all the stops and on the way back to SF.

Response from Host, Apr 2026

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the Hwy 1 stops and had a comfortable, informative trip with your guide. We appreciate your kind review!

18th hole Pebble Beach

Kim_H, Apr 2026

Great experience and Tour. We had mixed weather but a lovely story teller. Highlights: Carmel by the sea - beach is lovely Pebble Beach- walk to the 18th hole 17 mile drive - 'the' Tree Tip. Looking at the bus...Sit on the left side of the bus for the pacific views on the drive from San Francisco. Tip - bring your travel pillow... early start to the day

Response from Host, Apr 2026

Hi Kim! Thank you for your detailed feedback! We’re glad you enjoyed the tour and the highlights along the way. Great tips for future travelers, too.

A brilliant day!!

Selina_H, Apr 2026

This trip is a must do if you’ve the time to go outside of San Fransico! George our tour guide was absolutely brilliant and wow this man knows everything there is to know about this tour his knowledge was outstanding!!

Response from Host, Apr 2026

Hi Selina! Thank you! We’re thrilled you had such a great experience and that George made the tour so memorable with his knowledge.

Full day in the hands of...

Richard_B, Mar 2026

Full day in the hands of Don who was first class very knowledgeable and good company. 17 mile drive was most certainly the highlight.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Thank you! We’re so glad you had a great day with Don and enjoyed the 17-Mile Drive—he’ll be thrilled to hear your kind words!

Debra, our driver was...

Donald_B, Mar 2026

Debra, our driver was Fantastic. The tour she gave us throughout San Francisco, Monterey and Carmel was Awesome. The stops along the was truly remarkable.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Hi Donald! Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the tour with Debbie and loved the stops along the way. We’ll be sure to pass your compliments on to her!

Beautiful coastline

Tim_B, Feb 2026

We took this excursion as a way to see some of the beautiful California coast. It was as wonderful as we expected! Enjoyed both Monterey and Carmel-each with their own distinct styles. A big hit with my husband was seeing Pebble Beach.

Response from Host, Mar 2026

Hi Tim! Thank you for your kind review! We’re so glad you enjoyed Monterey, Carmel, and the beautiful coast — and that Pebble Beach was a highlight. Hope to see you again soon!

George was an excellent...

Patricia_H, Jan 2026

George was an excellent driver and guide with great communication throughout the tour. The mini bus was not comfortable as it was very bumpy and it certainly was not a luxury coach as advertised which was disappointing as it was a long day.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Thank you for your feedback. We’re glad George provided a great tour and appreciate your comments about the vehicle, which we’ll review.

A wonderful experience

Navah_K, Jan 2026

Plenty of pit stops for food and restrooms. The guide was exceptional. He narrated history and points of interest continuously. He has a load of knowledge that he generously shared about the places we visited and passed through. He was friendly and ready to engage.

Response from Host, Feb 2026

Hi Navah! Thank you for the wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the guide and the overall experience

We are the Millers

Bruce_M, Jan 2026

The trip is very scenic and fascinating. It’s quite a long day. Our driver was informative but made sure we kept to a schedule.

Response from Host, Jan 2026

Hi Bruce! Thank you for your feedback! We’re glad you enjoyed the scenic sights and found the trip fascinating. We appreciate your note about the schedule and hope to see you on another adventure soon!

Great day. Views were...

Debbiehall24, Jan 2026

Great day. Views were amazing. Monterey and Carmel were beautiful. Don was a very knowledgeable guide. Well worth the money.

Response from Host, Jan 2026

Hi Debbie! Thank you for your review! We’re glad you enjoyed the stunning views, beautiful towns, and Don’s expertise. We hope to see you on another tour soon!

Good tour - recommended if you are visiting San Francisco

Chaitali_C, Dec 2025

Good one-day tour. We covered all the places mentioned on the itinerary. Staff was good and provided adequate stops on the way and back.

Response from Host, Dec 2025

Thank you for your review! We’re glad to hear you enjoyed the tour, found the itinerary well covered, and appreciated our staff and stops along the way. We hope to welcome you again soon.

Sightseeing the coast

uyen_n, Nov 2025

Beautiful way to see the California coast. Many different points of interest. Find it easier to have a tour group, cuz you just sit back and enjoy the scene s.

Response from Host, Nov 2025

Thank you! We’re so glad you enjoyed the coastal views and found the tour relaxing. It’s our pleasure to let you sit back, take in the scenery, and enjoy the journey. Hope to see you again soon!

An excellent trip and would return to some of the places we visited.

Michelle_R, Oct 2025

If you want to see the California coast this day trip from San Fran is not to be missed. I loved every part of this trip and the views were memorable. The driver/guide Thomas was friendly, knowledgeable, and he made it a relaxing day whilst also keeping to a busy itinerary of stops. I loved Monterey and Carmel.

Response from Host, Nov 2025

Hi Michelle! Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the California coast, Monterey, and Carmel, and that Thomas made your day relaxing and enjoyable. We hope to welcome you on another tour soon!

Overview of the Monterey Bay coast

MaryEllen_H, Oct 2025

Our driver/guide, George, was an excellent driver, was very knowledgeable and kept an informative patter going during the entire long drive down to Monterey, Carmel, and back. I learned quite a bit and this kept the long drive interesting. The coach was clean and comfortable (I didn't use the on-board restroom so can't comment on that). Folks considering this tour need to be aware you will be doing most of your viewing from inside the coach. If your hope is to stop and see the seabirds, seals, sea lions, crashing surf, and so forth, this may not be your tour. Most stops (Bird Rock, Pigeon Point Lighthouse--?) are 15 minutes, time to jump out and take a few photos. The longer stops (Cannery Row/Monterey and Carmel) are in the center of town near high-end shopping. Finding lunch along Cannery Row left no time to walk the pretty trail along Monterey Bay. In Carmel, an hour in the shopping area was not sufficient to walk down to the water and enjoy the view. Overall, this long day tour gives an overview of the high-end shopping and mansions along Pebble Beach and the Seventeen-Mile Drive, but don't expect to spend time out enjoying the coastal beauty. That would be a different tour.

Response from Host, Oct 2025

Thank you for your detailed feedback! We’re glad George made the drive enjoyable and informative. We appreciate your insights about the stops and sightseeing time, which will help future travelers choose the best tour for their interests.