California Coastal Sightseeing Day Trip Adventure
from
$127
San Francisco
CA
1-15
people
price for
1 participant
11
hours
  • • Cruise Along California's Stunning Coastline from San Francisco
  • • Experience A Full 12-Hour Day Trip to Monterey and Carmel
  • • See California's Most Iconic Coastal Views Along 17-Mile Drive
or

Why We Love This Unique Experience

Embark on an unforgettable adventure along California's stunning coastline with a full-day tour from San Francisco to Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the iconic 17-Mile Drive. This trip offers a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and charming culture, making it an ideal escape for both locals and tourists. Get ready to immerse in the sights, sounds, and flavors of these picturesque coastal towns while creating lasting memories.

The journey begins with a scenic drive along Highway 1, where travelers will experience breathtaking views and make delightful stops at notable landmarks, such as the historic Pigeon Point Lighthouse. Dive into the vibrant marine life at the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium or explore the bustling shops and restaurants of Cannery Row, a beloved spot made famous by author John Steinbeck. This tour ensures ample free time at these awe-inspiring locations, allowing everyone to capture incredible photos and savor delicious meals at their leisure. Next, take in the mesmerizing beauty of 17-Mile Drive, featuring highlights like the iconic Lone Cypress and the charming Pebble Beach Golf Course, where stunning coastal views come alive with every turn.

This adventure doesn't just offer a day of exploration; it’s also a thoughtful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion. Treat friends or family members to this remarkable experience, perfectly wrapped in the beauty of California's coastline. The tour promises not just enjoyable sights but also unforgettable moments shared with loved ones, making it a cherished gift that will be remembered for years to come.

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Experience Overview:

Monterey, Carmel And 17-mile Drive: Full Day Tour From Sf

Cruise along California's spectacular coastline on a relaxing day trip from San Francisco. Follow Highway 1 and enjoy stops at Pigeon Point Lighthouse and in Davenport for a quick coffee and snack.
Back on the road traveling by Monterey Bay and Peninsula, to the famous Monterey Bay Aquarium and Steinbeck's Cannery Row. Explore Monterey's charming shops or choose to go to the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Two hours is ample time for pictures and Instagram posts of everything you are experiencing.
See the stunning estates of 17-Mile Drive, as well as Bird Rock, Lone Cypress, and world famous, Pebble Beach Golf Course.
Arriving in Carmel-by-the-Sea, known for the museums and library of the historic Carmel Mission, and the fairytale cottages, and galleries of its village like center.
11 hours of breathtaking sightseeing, unique shopping, historical landmarks, mouth-watering culinary innovation.

Meeting Point

478 Post St

478 Post St, San Francisco, CA 94102, USA

Union Square Departure Location
478 Post St.
Arrive by 7:25 AM to check-in
Bus Departs at 7:40 AM
Although there is no physical location, you'll find Encore Café situated right next door. For boarding the bus, simply head across the street to meet our representative and board the bus.

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2805 Leavenworth St

2805 Leavenworth St, San Francisco, CA 94133, USA

Gray Line Fisherman’s Wharf Departure Location
2805 Leavenworth St.
Arrive by 7:45 AM to check-in
Bus Departs at 8:00 AM
Although there is no physical location, you'll easily spot Pomegranate Café directly across the street. Simply wait there, and our representative will meet you.

What's included:

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

Not included:

  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel Pick-up & drop-off
  • Monterey Bay Aquarium

What to expect:

Duration: 11 hours

Pacific Coast Highway

State Route 1, California

The lighthouse, constructed in 1871, serves as a guiding beacon for ships navigating the Pacific coast of California. It proudly stands as the tallest lighthouse along the West Coast of the United States and continues to play an active role in assisting the Coast Guard in navigation.
During the journey, travelers will have the chance to disembark from the bus to capture memorable photos with the lighthouse as their backdrop or enjoy a brief stroll down to the nearby beach.

Pass by without stopping

Pigeon Point Light Station

210 Pigeon Point Rd, Hwy 1, Pescadero, 94060-9713, California

Tallest lighthouse on the west Coast of the United States. it is still an active Coast Guard aid to navigation.
Explore the lighthouse or a quick walk down to the beach.

15 minutes

Davenport

Davenport, California

The bus conveniently stops directly in front of the Davenport Cafe, which takes its name from the historical figure Captain John Pope Davenport. Captain Davenport settled at El Jarro Point, which is roughly half a mile away from the present-day town.
This cafe is an excellent spot to take a break, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy some snacks. Additionally, travelers are welcome to make use of the cafe's restroom facilities.

20 minutes

Monterey Bay

Monterey, California

The Monterey Bay is situated along the California coast, to the south of the major cities of San Francisco and San Jose. At the north end of the bay lies Santa Cruz, while at the southern tip of the Monterey Peninsula, you'll find Monterey.

Pass by without stopping

Cannery Row

Cannery Row & Wave Streets, 700 Cannery Row, Monterey, 93940, California

Cannery Row, located in the New Monterey section of Monterey along the waterfront, was once home to thriving sardine canning factories.
Today, Cannery Row has transformed into a popular tourist destination, featuring numerous restaurants and shops. As you drive through this historic district, you'll be heading towards the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is situated by the beautiful Monterey Bay.
This is the designated stopping point for the Monterey segment of the tour. Here, travelers will have a generous 2-hour window of free time to explore several attractions, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, various restaurants, and stores. This ample time allows travelers to leisurely enjoy lunch, soak in the sights, and then proceed to the next destinations of 17-Mile Drive and Carmel.

Note: Monterey Bay Aquarium (tickets must be purchased separately and reserved prior to departure date from the official Monterey Bay Aquarium website: www.montereybayaquarium.org)

Pass by without stopping

17-Mile Drive

Monterey, 93953, California

The 17-Mile Drive is a picturesque loop that winds through the private Pebble Beach community on the Monterey Peninsula. Along the way, travelers will be treated to stunning coastal vistas featuring pristine coves and sandy beaches. While the drive itself doesn't require much time, there are numerous designated stops where you can capture breathtaking photos.
It's important to note that this attraction may be temporarily closed during certain annual events, including the PGA Tour in February and the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance car show in August.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Bird Rock Vista Point

Bird Rock Rd, Pebble Beach, California

This bustling wildlife hub is teeming with a vibrant population of birds, harbor seals, and noisy sea lions. Bird Rock, once buried under 4 to 5 feet of pelican and cormorant guano until 1930, was cleared for use as fertilizer. Subsequently, sea lions have claimed this cleared perch as their sunbathing spot, and they've been enjoying it ever since.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Lone Cypress

Pebble Beach, 93953, California

Standing proudly on a granite hillside, the Lone Cypress is a remarkable Monterey Cypress tree. This iconic tree holds the distinction of being one of the most photographed trees in all of North America. It stands sentinel between two renowned golf courses, the Cypress Point Club and the Pebble Beach Golf Links, both of which are among the world's most famous.
The Lone Cypress is estimated to be around 250 years old and bears the scars of past fires. To ensure its stability, it has been anchored in place with cables for the past six decades. Travelers will have the opportunity to disembark from the bus at this spot, offering them an excellent chance to capture memorable photographs of this enduring natural wonder.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Pebble Beach Golf Links

1700 17-Mile Drive, , Pebble Beach, 93953, California

Pebble Beach Golf Links is internationally renowned as one of the most stunning golf courses globally, as it gracefully embraces the rugged coastline and offers expansive vistas of Carmel Bay, which opens up to the vast Pacific Ocean. This prestigious course hosts annual events by the PGA Tour and PGA Tour Champions.
During your visit, travelers will have the opportunity to disembark from the bus and enjoy some time either in the clubhouse or exploring the souvenir shop. Please note that certain closures may occur due to annual events, such as the PGA Tour AT&T Pro-Am in February.

15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

Carmel by the sea

San Antonio Ave, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921, USA

Small beach community on California's Monterey Peninsula. The Scenic Bluff Path runs from surf spot Carmel Beach to bird-rich Carmel River State Beach.

Pass by without stopping

Carmel Plaza

Ocean Avenue & Mission Street, Carmel, 93923, California

Situated in the charming heart of downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel Plaza offers a unique blend of fashion boutiques, specialty natural brands, exceptional dining establishments, gourmet shops, wine tasting rooms, salons, wellness studios, and much more, all within a relaxed and refined environment.
During this stop, travelers will have the opportunity to disembark from the bus and enjoy a generous 60 minutes of free time to explore the offerings at Carmel Plaza at their leisure.

1 hour

Details & Important Info

Additional Experience Details & Important Information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellations & Refunds

Reservation Changes, Cancellations & Refunds

Changes to reservations for tickets can be made until 3 days prior to the date scheduled. Reservations may be re-scheduled by the operator of the activity due to reasons such as weather, minimum participation requirements, mechanical issues or other interruptions beyond their control.

Organized by

Gray Line San Francisco

Product SKU: US-3195-0009
Google Business Profile: Gray Line San Francisco

What People Are Saying

(1757 reviews)

Customers rave about the stunning scenery and engaging tour guides on this day trip from San Francisco to Monterey and Carmel. Many highlight the beautiful coastal views, charming towns, and opportunities for memorable photo stops along the way. While some felt the timing at certain locations, like the Monterey Aquarium, could've been improved, the overall experience was described as well-organized with a personalized touch, thanks to small group sizes. With great food recommendations and a blend of relaxation and exploration, this tour is highly recommended for anyone looking to experience California's breathtaking coastline in a single day!


Experience Highlights

Scenic Coastal Beauty... Knowledgeable Guides... Great for Photos... Long Day Trip... Charming Monterey... Charming Carmel... Personalized Experience... Suitable for Adults... Unique Stops... Informational Commentary... Family Friendly... Memorable Experience... Good for Shopping...

California Coastal Day Trip from San Francisco

(1757 reviews)
San Francisco
CA
1-15
people
price for
1 participant
11
hours
  • • Cruise Along California's Stunning Coastline from San Francisco
  • • Experience A Full 12-Hour Day Trip to Monterey and Carmel
  • • See California's Most Iconic Coastal Views Along 17-Mile Drive
or

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