The 1-Hour Monterey and Cannery Row GoCar Tour offers a flexible and fun way to explore the highlights of Monterey and its famous Cannery Row at your own pace. Priced at $99 for a group of up to 2, this tour boasts a GPS-guided convertible that navigates itself, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without the hassle of maps or directions. With a duration of approximately 1 hour, it’s an ideal choice for travelers seeking a quick, independent adventure in Monterey & Carmel.

While reviews praise the scenic views and knowledgeable guides, some mention issues with the GPS system, making it important to stay attentive during your ride. The tour starts near Fisherman’s Wharf and includes visits to key sights like Lovers Point, Asilomar State Beach, and the historic Fisherman’s Wharf, making it a well-rounded way to see parts of Monterey in a short amount of time. Helmets and a full tank of fuel are included, adding to the convenience.

Key Points

Self-guided tour in a GPS-enabled GoCar that navigates itself, making exploring stress-free.
Visit iconic spots such as Cannery Row, Lovers Point, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
Includes helmets, a full tank of gas, and safety orientation for a smooth experience.
Tour duration is about 1 hour, ideal for a quick sightseeing session.
Maximum of 2 passengers per car, suitable for couples or small groups.
Limited parking and easy maneuverability make this a practical option for exploring Monterey.

The Self-Guided GPS-Enabled GoCar in Monterey

The GoCar used in this tour is a two-seater convertible that guides itself through GPS. This feature allows for independent exploration without the need for a separate map, making it perfect for travelers who want an interactive and flexible experience. The safety orientation ensures everyone understands how to operate the vehicle, which is simple and accessible even for first-timers.

The full tank of gas and helmet are included, so you’re ready to hit the road immediately after the briefing. The price of $99 covers one car—which seats up to two passengers—so it’s a great value for couples or small groups wanting to explore Monterey without the constraints of a larger tour bus.

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Exploring Monterey’s Iconic Sights from the Water’s Edge

Starting at a hotel near Fisherman’s Wharf, this tour takes you past famous attractions such as Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, and Lovers Point. The self-guided nature means you can spend as much time at each stop as you like, whether it’s admiring the view of the ocean, watching marine life, or exploring historic buildings.

The itinerary includes stops at Fisherman’s Warf, where you can look over the classic pier, and Lovers Point, known for its beautiful park and ocean views. You’ll also get to drive along the coast by Asilomar State Beach, capturing the scenery from your convertible. The open top enhances the experience, letting you enjoy the breeze and panoramic vistas.

Highlights of the Monterey Coastline and Cannery Row

One of the major highlights is the view of Monterey Bay, which guests can admire from the open convertible. The scenery encompasses harbor views, sand dunes, and cypress trees—perfect for photography and enjoying the fresh sea air. The tour also passes through Cannery Row, where you can see shops, restaurants, and attractions that have preserved Monterey’s fishing history.

The marine life watching opportunities include sightings of otters and seals along the coast, adding a lively element to your sightseeing. The self-directed pace allows you to stop and take pictures or pause at points of interest without feeling rushed.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Accessibility

The meeting point is at 230 Alvarado Street in Monterey, an accessible location near Fisherman’s Wharf. The activity ends back at the start point, making it easy to plan your day around this experience.

Since the tour is GPS-guided, you don’t need to worry about navigating or getting lost; however, there are some concerns about GPS reliability mentioned in reviews. Still, the ease of maneuverability and parking make this a practical option for most travelers.

The minimum driver age is 18, requiring a valid driver’s license, and children over age 7 can participate if accompanied by an adult. The maximum height limit is 6 feet 3 inches, ensuring most guests can comfortably fit.

The Experience from the Driver’s Seat: Ease and Challenges

Many guests highlight how easy it is to operate the GoCar, noting that even first-time drivers find it manageable. The guided route makes it easier to focus on the scenery rather than navigation, while some mention that GPS issues can occasionally cause confusion.

The helmet is included for safety, though some find it a bit heavy. Guests appreciate the fun factor of cruising along the coast and through town in a convertible. The pace is flexible, and the independent nature of the tour allows for personalized sightseeing.

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Feedback on the Tour’s Value and Limitations

Reviews are generally positive, especially about the scenery and ease of use. Many describe the tour as “super fun” and “highly recommended”, emphasizing how it’s a great way to see Monterey in a short time.

On the downside, some reviews mention GPS reliability issues and navigation challenges, which can lead to getting off track or missing parts of the planned route. There are also reports of customer service issues, including disrespectful staff and availability problems when arriving after booking in advance.

The non-refundable policy and weather dependence should be considered when planning, as poor weather leads to full refunds or rescheduling.

Who Will Enjoy the 1-Hour Monterey and Cannery Row GoCar Tour?

This tour is best suited for small groups or couples looking for a short, independent adventure with beautiful views and easy navigation. It’s ideal for those who want to explore at their own pace and enjoy scenic coastal drives without a large tour group.

Guests comfortable with driving a small vehicle and reading GPS directions will find this experience particularly enjoyable. It’s also a good option for families with children over age 7, provided an adult driver is available.

Final Thoughts on the Monterey GoCar Experience

The 1-Hour Monterey and Cannery Row GoCar Tour provides a hands-free way to explore some of Monterey’s most iconic sights. Its self-guided GPS system offers flexibility, while the scenic stops make good use of the coastal backdrop.

While the GPS may occasionally falter, the ease of parking, beautiful scenery, and informative narration make it a worthwhile activity for many visitors. The price of $99 for a private two-seater offers value for small groups or couples wanting a quick but memorable tour.

This experience suits travelers seeking adventure with a bit of independent exploration in a beautiful coastal setting—just be prepared for the occasional GPS hiccup and the non-refundable policy.

Ready to Book?

1-Hour Monterey and Cannery Row GoCar Tour

4.0

(157)

“It was such a great option to see the beautiful parts of Monterey! Everything is beautiful there but such a great way to travel around feel the bre…”

— Nadia A, Featured

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 7 years old can participate if accompanied by an adult. The driver must be 18 or older with a valid license.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather is bad?
This tour is non-refundable in case of cancellation, but if it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
The GoCar rental, safety orientation, full tank of gas, helmet, and map are included.

Are there any height or weight restrictions?
The maximum height is 6 feet 3 inches. The weight limit is not explicitly detailed in the data, but some reviews mention it as a consideration.

Where do I meet the tour?
The tour starts at 230 Alvarado Street, Monterey. It ends at the same location.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included as part of the rental.

How long does the tour last?
The duration is approximately 1 hour, making it perfect for a quick sightseeing session.

What about the GPS system?
The GPS-guided system is designed to be easy, but some reviews report issues with clarity or volume, so staying alert is advised.

Is there parking available?
Yes, the location near Fisherman’s Wharf offers convenient parking options for participants.

Can I bring a friend or family member along?
Yes, up to two passengers can ride in a single GoCar.