San Francisco: Private Monterey Aquarium 17 Mile Carmel

A private tour from San Francisco to Monterey offers a personalized way to explore some of California’s most stunning sights. For $1,299 per group of up to 6 people, this 11-hour journey combines scenic drives, world-famous attractions, and charming towns. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit Monterey’s Aquarium, cruise along 17-Mile Drive, and enjoy stops in Carmel and Pebble Beach. This tour is perfect for those seeking a flexible, intimate experience with plenty of opportunity for pictures and relaxation.

While the tour covers a substantial distance and highlights notable sights, it does not include entry fees or meals, so plan accordingly. The overall provider rating of 4.5 reflects the quality and reliability of this private adventure. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, marine life, and the chance to explore California’s iconic coastal towns in comfort and style.

Key Points

• Private group tour for up to 6 people, providing a personalized experience
• 11-hour itinerary from San Francisco, including hotel pickup and drop-off
• Highlights include Monterey Bay Aquarium, 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, and Carmel
• Luxury air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water included
• Pass by tech company headquarters such as Oracle, Facebook, Google, and Apple
• Not included: museum entry fees and lunch, so bring some snacks or plan meals ahead

You can check availability for your dates here:

Scenic Drive from San Francisco to Monterey in Comfort

The tour begins with a scenic 2.5 to 3-hour drive from San Francisco to Monterey. The vehicle is luxury, air-conditioned, ensuring comfort throughout the trip. Travelers have flexibility to customize the itinerary by discussing preferences with the guide beforehand, making this a tailored experience. The driver speaks English, Russian, and Spanish, adding convenience for diverse groups.

During the drive, passing by headquarters of tech giants like Oracle, Facebook, Google, and Apple offers a glimpse into California’s tech hub. The journey along Pacific Highway is scenic even before reaching Monterey, setting the tone for a day filled with beautiful views.

Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf and Monterey’s Historic Charm

Once in Monterey, Fisherman’s Wharf is a lively starting point. Known for its restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, and art galleries, this area provides a lively atmosphere to stroll, shop, and sample local cuisine. It’s a hub for maritime activity and offers great photo opportunities, especially of the historic boats and waterfront scenery.

Nearby, the Cannery Row area reflects California’s fishing industry history. Originally the site of sardine canning factories, it was immortalized by John Steinbeck who described it as “a poem, a stink, a grating noise, a quality of light, a tone, a nostalgia, a dream.” Today, it features a mix of shops, eateries, and museums, making it a lively and nostalgic stop.

Experience the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Marine Marvels

A major highlight is the Monterey Bay Aquarium, renowned as one of the world’s largest aquariums. It hosts over 600 species across 200 exhibits, showcasing marine life such as stingrays, starfish, jellyfish, tunas, sharks, and sea horses.

The aquarium’s terraces provide sweeping views of the Bay, while its three floors feature uniquely shaped aquariums. Visitors can observe scuba divers swimming with fish and sea otters in the large cylinder tank, walk through the sea tunnel, and enjoy Jelly Experience aquariums illuminated in vibrant ultramarine colors filled with glowing jellyfish. If luck favors, sightings of dolphins or a drifting whale may occur during the visit, adding a special touch to the experience.

Cruising the 17-Mile Drive and Iconic Coastal Sights

Following the aquarium visit, the tour continues with the 17-mile Drive, a renowned stretch of coastline connecting Monterey and Carmel. The drive offers several stops at scenic locations, each promising stunning photo opportunities.

A highlight is the Lone Cypress, one of the most photographed trees in the world, perched on rugged cliffs. The drive passes through cypress forests, which stand as silent sentinels to the Pacific Ocean. Other notable sights include Spanish Bay Beach, Stillwater Cove, luxurious oceanfront homes, and Pebble Beach itself, celebrated as the World’s Golf Capital.

Travelers may also see deer wandering across the golf courses or admire the stunning ocean views along the coast. Multiple stops allow for taking pictures and soaking in the panoramic scenery.

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Discovering Carmel’s Artistic and Coastal Charm

The tour’s final stop is the charming town of Carmel, famed for its natural beauty and artistic vibe. Spend about an hour exploring art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy coffee shops. Carmel is also home to the historic San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo Mission, the 14th of California’s 21 missions, founded to serve local Native populations.

The town’s streets are lined with marvelous beaches and marvelous restaurants, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing stroll. The guide shares unique facts about Carmel, enriching the experience with local stories and history.

Logistics and Flexibility of the Private Tour

This private tour ensures a tailored experience, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Travelers can specify their pickup location in San Francisco or between SF and Monterey. The driver speaks English, Russian, and Spanish, facilitating communication for international groups.

The tour is designed for relaxation and flexibility, with the option to customize the itinerary. While not including museum entry fees or lunch, bottled water is provided, and travelers can bring snacks or plan meals independently.

Value and Provider Reliability

Priced at $1,299 per group, this tour offers an intimate and comprehensive experience of California’s coast. The 11-hour duration balances sightseeing with comfort, avoiding rush or fatigue. A Taste of SF Tours, Inc maintains a 4.5 rating, indicating consistent quality and trustworthy service.

The tour’s inclusion of hotel pickup, bottled water, and a private vehicle makes it a convenient and comfortable option, especially for small groups looking for a customized day trip.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private tour appeals most to families, friends, or couples seeking a flexible, relaxed way to explore Monterey’s coastline and attractions without the constraints of group travel. It is ideal for travelers who value scenic views, marine life, and charming towns. Those interested in the tech headquarters of Silicon Valley will find this added detail intriguing, though it’s a brief pass-by.

Travelers should be prepared for a full day, including some walking and photography stops, but the pace remains comfortable thanks to the private setting.

Final Thoughts on the San Francisco Private Monterey Tour

This 11-hour private experience offers a thoughtful balance of scenic drives, marine exploration, and coastal charm. The luxury vehicle and personalized approach make it stand out from larger group tours. The stops at Monterey Aquarium, Carmel, and 17-Mile Drive ensure a well-rounded day filled with iconic sights.

While the tour does not include entry fees or lunch, the flexibility and comfort make it a worthwhile option for those wanting a more tailored California coast experience. It suits small groups seeking personalized attention and a leisurely pace to savor the stunning views and local culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the data does not specify age restrictions, the tour’s pace and stops are generally suitable for families, especially those interested in marine life and scenic views.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the guide is happy to custom tailor the experience based on your preferences, making this tour flexible to your interests.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and museum entry fees are not included, so plan to bring snacks or dine in Carmel or Monterey.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind if your plans change.

What languages are available?
The driver speaks English, Russian, and Spanish, accommodating a diverse range of travelers.

How long is the drive from San Francisco to Monterey?
The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby