From San Francisco: Carmel, Monterey & Big Sur Private Tour

Mission District, San Francisco



Discover the natural beauty of California at your own pace on a private 10-hour scenic tour of Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur from San Francisco.

Big Sur and Monterey Private Day Tour from San Francisco

This private car tour from San Francisco suits travelers seeking a personalized visit to Big Sur, Monterey, and Carmel at their own pace.

Highlights

  • Discover the natural beauty of Big Sur and Carmel
  • Drive along the forested 17-Mile Drive
  • Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium and Fisherman's Wharf
  • Customize your tour with exclusive sightseeing stops
  • Receive expert recommendations on where to go and what to see

Description

Explore the scenic Big Sur and Monterey areas of California comfortably by private car, avoiding the restrictions of group bus tours. Enjoy flexible departure and arrival times tailored to your preferences.

After pickup from your San Francisco accommodation (with arrangements available for other Bay Area locations), you will receive tailored guidance on optimal stops for photography and exploration. You decide the itinerary based on your interests.

Travel along State Route 1, California’s Pacific coastline highway, from San Francisco to Carmel and Big Sur. Experience the 17-Mile Drive lined with forest and ocean views. Visit Monterey’s Mission District, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Fisherman's Wharf.

Continue to the Big Sur Bixby Creek Bridge and explore the flora and fauna of Point Lobos State Reserve south of Carmel before returning to San Francisco.

Includes

  • Transportation in a private vehicle
  • Road tolls
  • Surcharges and taxes

Excludes

  • Optional gratuities
  • Entrance tickets if required
  • Wheelchair access

Important Information

  • Eating, smoking, and drinking alcohol are not permitted inside the car

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Book in advance to secure your preferred date. Bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera. The best time to visit is during daylight hours for optimal visibility of coastal sights.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes a private car ride along the Pacific Coast Highway with stops at Big Sur, Carmel, the 17-Mile Drive, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Fisherman's Wharf.
Tour duration varies based on your customized itinerary, typically lasting a full day.
Yes, the private tour is fully customizable to fit your preferences and interests along the California coast.
The tour departs from your preferred location in San Francisco, including hotels and other central spots.
Yes, the 17-Mile Drive through forested coastal areas is part of the itinerary along with scenic stops in Carmel and Monterey.
Yes, the tour includes a stop at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, where you can explore marine exhibits.
Yes, your guide will offer local tips and recommendations for sights and activities in Big Sur, Carmel, and Monterey.
Yes, the private nature of the tour makes it suitable for families and small groups seeking a flexible coastal experience.
You should visit the official websites of individual attractions for the most up-to-date opening hours.
The tour uses a private car, typically a comfortable sedan or SUV, for a personalized coastal drive.

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 27.8M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.

Added to your trip Added to day {[{trip.toast.day}]}, MorningAfternoonEvening Saved to your trip Already in your trip Transfer saved to your trip Save your trip to get fresh suggestions Staying in {[{trip.toast.label}]} Base cleared Trip deleted Link copied Could not save your trip Something went wrong, please try again