Monterey and Carmel One Day Tour from San Francisco

What you'll do:

Monterey is a rich and entertaining mix of wildlife, stunning coastal views, and important history. On its streets, you can walk in the steps of figures like Grapes of Wrath author John Steinbeck, who spent years living in and writing about this fascinating area. Read more about this amazing place on our Monterey Guide.

After a pickup from a convenient hotel in San Francisco, you’ll be swept into a Pacific Coast wonderland. You’ll head down California State Route 1 toward Monterey along the picturesque Pacific Ocean coastline. Grab a photo with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop!

Keep an eye out for the sea otters playing in the waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. This underwater park stretches hundreds of miles along the coast from San Francisco to Cambria and is home to hundreds of species of marine mammals, birds, and fish.

In Monterey, you’ll have two hours of free time to explore. That’s plenty of time to visit the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium. Alternatively, you can take the time to stroll out to Lovers’ Point, check out the many boutiques that line historic Cannery Row, or grab a fresh lunch at Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

Back on your tour vehicle, you’ll be treated to more beauty on the 17-Mile Drive. This scenic road winds its way through the Del Monte Forest between magnificent multi-million dollar homes, spectacular coastline and Pebble Beach golf course. Catch a photo of the hardy Lone Cypress Tree.

After leaving 17-Mile Drive, arrive in charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. Check out the quaint shops on Ocean Avenue or get some white Pacific sand between your toes at the beach. Find out more about Carmel.

Finally, this tour of Monterey and Carmel has almost come to an end; it’s time to head back to San Francisco, exhilarated but knowing it was a day to remember.

Why we love it for your party:

• Wildlife wonders (Monterey's mix of wildlife, coastlines, and history is a party for your senses!)
• Perfect for literature lovers (Walk where Steinbeck walked, adding literary flair to your adventure)
• Insta-ready (Snap pics with the Pacific Ocean backdrop on Route 1 – instant Instagram gold!)
• Otterly adorable (Watch playful sea otters in the Marine Sanctuary – a watery wonderland)
• Your party, your way (Whether it's the aquarium, Lover's Point, or Old Fisherman's Wharf – Monterey's your oyster!)

About this experience partner:

Yosemite Tours is a web-based tour provider specializing in Yosemite National Park tours. We are located South of Market, San Francisco. Since 2004, we have helped customers plan their perfect Yosemite experience. We pride ourselves on being one of few tour providers with daily guaranteed departures to Yosemite, 365 days a year.

Our guides all share an excitement for leading tours and sharing their knowledge about Yosemite with our passengers.

Additional information:

• Combine historic Monterey with enchanting Carmel by the Sea
• Relax, dine and explore during 2+ hours of free time in Monterey
• Photo stops at the Pacific Coast, Pebble Beach Golf Links, 17-Mile Drive and more
• Fully guided (English) experience

Tour Itinerary

• 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM - Pickup at Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square locations
• 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM - Scenic Highway 1 drive along California’s Pacific Coastline
  Stops at magnificent vista points to capture the best photos of the ocean
• 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM - Free time to explore Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf
  Enjoy Monterey Bay Aquarium or a food walking tour of historic Monterey
• 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM - Cruise California’s coastline on the 17-mile drive
  See the Lone Cypress near the Pebble Beach Golf Links
• 4:00 PM to 5:15 PM - Explore, dine, and shop in Carmel-by-the-Sea
• 5:15 PM to 7:00 PM - Conclude the tour at your pickup location