---
title: Monterey and Carmel 1-Day Explorer Tour
slug: monterey-carmel-explorer-tour-san-francisco
type: attraction
sub_type: tours
source_url: https://www.tripster.com/detail/monterey-carmel-explorer-tour-san-francisco
city: San Franscisco
state: CA
country: US
address: 425 Avenue M
geo:
  lat: 37.8239
  lng: -122.36679
duration: up to 11 hrs
cancellation_policy: Free cancellation up to 2 days before the experience.
extracted_at: 2026-06-16T20:24:44.851Z
price_from:
  amount: 127.55
  currency: USD
  unit: per_adult
availability: InStock
rating:
  value: 4
  count: 4500
  scale: 5
ticket_options:
  - group: Other Options
    options:
      - name: Monterey & Carmel Explorer
        price: 127.55
        regular_price: 139
        savings: 11.45
        ticket_types:
          - name: Adult (12+ yrs)
            min_age: 12
          - name: Child (0-11 yrs)
            min_age: 0
            max_age: 11
---
## Overview

Set out on a California coast tour on this guided day trip to Monterey and Carmel from San Francisco. Explore Carmel-by-the-Sea, take pictures on the 17-Mile Drive, and walk in the footsteps of John Steinbeck at historic Cannery Row in Monterey with stunning Pacific Ocean views.

## What's Included

- Approximately 11-hour guided tour with local expert
- Roundtrip transportation from Fisherman's Wharf area or Union Square area in San Francisco
- Admission to the 17-Mile Drive

## What's Not Included

- Monterey Bay Aquarium admission
- Meals and snacks

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:start -->
## Ticket Options

- **Monterey & Carmel Explorer** — $127.55 (regularly $139.00, save $11.45)
  Explore Monterey and Carmel-by-the-sea with friends, the whole family, and a local expert guide. This 11-hour tour includes scenic coastal drives, strolls on the white sand beach, a history tour, and roundtrip transportation from two major San Francisco hotel locations.
  - Adult (12+ yrs)
  - Child (0-11 yrs)

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:end -->

## Good to Know

- Fun for all ages; child safety seats required for children under eight years old or 4'9"
- Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes or sandals
- Bring a light water-resistant jacket, camera or phone, water bottle, packed lunch, hat, sunscreen, umbrella, and cash or credit card for meals, snacks, and souvenirs
- You will have about two hours of free time in Monterey and up to one hour in Carmel-by-the-Sea

## Cancellation Policy

Free Changes & Cancellations - See details upon selection.

## FAQs

### What will I see on the tour?

In the morning, you’ll see the stunning Pacific Coast along Highway 1 on the drive to Monterey and walk along historic Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf. While in the afternoon, you’ll be cruising the 17-Mile Drive and see Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach Golf Links, and charming Carmel-by-the-Sea.

### What should I wear?

Pacific Coast can be windy and chilly in the morning, so best to dress in layers and a pair of comfortable walking shoes or sandals.

### I’m traveling with a child; do I need to bring a child seat?

For your child’s safety, all vehicle tours require child safety seats or a booster for every child under eight (8) years of age or 4′ 9″ in height. If you need assistance arranging for a safety seat, please leave a comment in the “Have Special Needs?” section when booking your reservation.

### What should I bring?

Bring a light water-resistant jacket, camera or phone, water bottle, hat, sunscreen, umbrella (if the forecast calls for rain), and cash or credit card for purchasing souvenirs and snacks.

### Are meals included in the tour and where is the stop for lunch?

Meals are not included on this tour, but there will be stops on the way to Monterey to purchase snacks. There are several good options for food and drinks in Monterey, where you’ll have enough time for meals, snacks and refreshments.

### How much free time will I have in Monterey and Carmel?

You’ll have approximately two (2) hours of free time in Monterey and up to one (1) hour in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

### Is admission to the 17-Mile Drive included?

Yes, the 17-Mile Drive admission is included in the tour cost.

### Will we stop at the Lone Cypress or Pebble Beach?

Yes, the tour will take the 17-Mile Drive from Monterey to Carmel and will have a few stops for photos along the way, including the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach, unless there is a special event.

### Will I have time to visit Monterey Bay Aquarium?

Yes. The tour will spend about two (2) hours in Monterey, so you can use this time to visit the Aquarium. The entrance fee to the Monterey Bay Aquarium is not included.

### Does the tour pick up outside of San Francisco?

Complimentary pick-up is offered from two central locations in San Francisco. If you are staying away from the downtown area, it is recommended to take a shared ride service or public transportation to Union Square.

## Reviews

> "You better hope your driver is Andy!"
> — 948scubas, Reviewed May 28, 2026