Please refer to your voucher for final information regarding meeting points, pick-up locations, and pick-up time
Meeting point description: Departure locations: 07:40 AM: 478 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA (Union Square Area). Encore Café is next door. The bus will board from directly across the street // 08:00 AM: 2805 Leavenworth St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA (Fisherman’s Wharf Area). Bay City Bike Rentals & Tours is across the street (blue canopy). The bus will board just in front. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of your tour.
The 17-Mile Drive typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete, allowing for leisurely stops at scenic viewpoints and attractions like the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach. The actual duration can vary depending on how often you stop and for how long you explore each point of interest along the beautiful coastal route.
Yes, there is an entry fee to access the 17-Mile Drive. This fee is typically collected at the gate, and it allows access to the scenic road and its various attractions within the Pebble Beach community. It is usually waived if you make a purchase at one of the restaurants or shops inside Pebble Beach, though conditions may apply.
The 17-Mile Drive offers unparalleled coastal beauty, with dramatic ocean views, pristine beaches, and iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress. It's famous for its luxurious golf courses, abundant wildlife including seals and sea lions, and distinct cypress trees. The drive provides a unique blend of natural splendor, exclusive ambiance, and stunning photographic opportunities.
In Carmel-by-the-Sea, must-do activities include exploring its charming village filled with art galleries, unique boutiques, and fairytale-like cottages. Visitors often enjoy strolling along the white sands of Carmel Beach, visiting the historic Carmel Mission Basilica, and dining at its acclaimed restaurants. The area is also popular for wine tasting rooms and scenic walks.
For a day trip to Monterey, exploring Cannery Row and visiting the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium are highly recommended. You can also enjoy whale watching tours from Fisherman's Wharf, explore the historic Path of History, which highlights the city's past, and discover various art galleries and unique shops.
Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a quaint, artistic, and upscale village atmosphere with a focus on charming shops, art galleries, and scenic beaches. Monterey has a more historic, bustling working-harbor feel, known for its vibrant marine life, Cannery Row, and the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Carmel is generally more relaxed, while Monterey offers more structured attractions and activities.
Traveling between Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea is relatively easy due to their close proximity. Options include taking a taxi or rideshare service, which offers convenience and quick travel. There are also local bus services, specifically the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) system, providing an economical way to travel between these two beautiful coastal towns.
While having a car offers flexibility, it is feasible to explore Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea effectively without one. Both towns are quite walkable, especially their main attractions and downtown areas. Additionally, local bus services, such as the Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) system, connect key attractions and towns. Rideshare services are also readily available for more direct travel.