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Product #601148
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Monterey and Carmel full-day tour from San Francisco
Monterey and Carmel full-day tour from San Francisco
Monterey and Carmel full-day tour from San Francisco
Monterey and Carmel full-day tour from San Francisco
Monterey and Carmel full-day tour from San Francisco

Monterey and Carmel full-day tour from San Francisco

United States-California , San Francisco
Free cancellation 4 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site
  • Ride along California's Highway 101 and explore the towns of Monterey and Carmel-by-The-Sea while passing the famous 17-mile drive with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK
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Product Info

-What you can expect-
This tour takes you along one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world - California's Highway 101! You will explore the charming coastal towns of Monterey and Carmel-by-The-Sea as well as passing the famous 17-Mile Drive with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.

The route passes through the beach town of Santa Cruz (road conditions permitting). You'll be hit with one spectacular view after another. Following a morning of winding down the coast, you'll stop for a visit in Steinbeck’s Cannery Row in Monterey. You'll have plenty of time to get tickets and visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium - with over 250,00 sea creatures in 200+ mesmerizing galleries, tours, and exhibits.

Afterward, cruise along the 17-mile drive with the Pebble Beach golf course, the Lone Pine, and the best coastal views in the world. You'll stop in the gallery/restaurant district of Carmel-by-the-Sea. After such a nature-filled trip, pass through Silicon Valley, the high-tech capital of the world, as you head back to San Francisco.

Purchase Notice

Duration: Lasts up to 0 day

Reminders

  • Please refer to your voucher for final information regarding meeting points, pick-up locations, and pick-up time

  • Meeting point description: Hotel pickup available in the Downtown area (Union Square, Financial District, Nob Hill, Lombard Street, Embarcadero and SOMA). Please confirm your hotel pickup at least 48 hours prior to departure. If you do not have a scheduled hotel pickup, you need to be at 288 Beach Street (at the corner of Mason Street) at least 20 mins prior to the departure

  • Guests and staff are required to wear face coverings onboard

  • Social distancing seating has been put into place. Boarding is coordinated from the rear forward to allow enough distance between passengers

  • Hand sanitizer will be provided on the bus and all buses will be cleaned between departures

  • Please note the 17 Mile Drive is closed during pro golf tournaments and the Concurs d'Elegance

  • It is recommended to dress in layers and wear comfortable walking shoes

  • The tour route and some stops may vary due to the weather and traffic conditions

How to Redeem Your Voucher

How to Use Your Voucher

  • Please present the e-voucher on-site

Validity Period

  • The voucher must be used on the selected date and within operating hours; Invalid after expiration

FAQ

1. Are Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea the same location?

No, Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea are distinct towns located on California's Central Coast, though they are geographically very close. Monterey is generally larger and known for its historic Cannery Row and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming, smaller village famous for its fairy-tale cottages, art galleries, and beautiful white-sand beach.

2. What is the distance between Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea are very close to each other. The driving distance is approximately 4-6 miles (6-10 kilometers), depending on the specific route taken. The scenic 17-Mile Drive connects the two towns, offering breathtaking coastal views and acting as a common route between them.

3. What are the main differences between Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea for visitors?

Monterey offers a more bustling, historic atmosphere with attractions like Cannery Row, Fisherman's Wharf, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium, often appealing to families. Carmel-by-the-Sea, in contrast, provides a quaint, upscale, and artistic village experience with boutique shops, art galleries, fine dining, and a picturesque beach. Its charm is more relaxed and romantic.

4. What is Carmel-by-the-Sea known for?

Carmel-by-the-Sea is widely known for its European-style charm, artistic heritage, and stunning natural beauty. It features unique fairy-tale-like architecture, numerous art galleries, boutique shops, and a vibrant culinary scene. The town is also famous for its dog-friendly policies and the pristine Carmel Beach, offering picturesque views and sunsets.

5. What are the recommended activities for a day in Carmel-by-the-Sea?

For a day in Carmel-by-the-Sea, visitors can explore the charming village shops and art galleries, stroll along Ocean Avenue, and visit the historic Carmel Mission Basilica. Enjoy a leisurely walk or relax on Carmel Beach, known for its white sand and scenic views. Dining at one of the many exquisite restaurants or cafes is also a popular activity.

6. What are the best activities to do during a day in Monterey?

A day in Monterey could include exploring historic Cannery Row, home to shops, restaurants, and the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Visitors can also walk along Fisherman's Wharf, enjoy fresh seafood, and observe sea lions. Exploring the Old Fisherman's Wharf offers opportunities for whale watching tours or simply soaking in the harbor atmosphere.

7. How can visitors travel between Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea?

Visitors can travel between Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea by car, which is the most common method, often via the scenic 17-Mile Drive or Highway 1. Local public transportation, such as Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) buses, also connects the two towns. Ride-sharing services are generally available as well for convenient transport.

8. Is it possible to explore Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea effectively without a personal car?

While having a car offers flexibility, it is possible to explore Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea without one. Both towns have walkable downtown areas for easy exploration. Inter-town travel can be managed using local public buses (Monterey-Salinas Transit), ride-sharing services, or taxis. Many organized tours also provide comprehensive transportation covering key attractions in both locations.

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