USA · MONTEREY CARMEL AND BIG SUR
12 tours
This is the shortlist we would hand a friend: 12 monterey carmel and big sur tours worth the money, each with its price, its traveller verdict and the one thing to know before you commit.
Monterey Bay whale watching from Fisherman’s Wharf with a biologist guide, hot drinks, and big wildlife chances in 3 to 4 hours.
“Great we saw a lot of whales its really fascinating to see lots of them:)”
Full-day coach trip from San Francisco to Monterey and Carmel, with photo stops and 17-Mile Drive, plus free time in both towns.
“There are beautiful views and the Monterey Aquarium is worth seeing. The heavy, stop-and-go traffic and the numerous short stops at point of little interest made it a very long day. I recommend just 2 short stops where there are decent bathrooms and light food as well as pretty views. 7:30 am - 8 pm is too long for the few points of interest. Even Hwy 101 was slow. How about trip to aquarium and back by freeway and alternate coastline tour?”
3-hour Monterey Bay boat tour from Fisherman's Wharf to spot gray, humpback and killer whales, dolphins, seals, turtles, and more with a guide.
“Great trip on one of the smaller boats. Lauren was very knowledgeable and attentive to all passengers. Great to see whales in their own habitat. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend this trip.”
Discovery Whale Watch from Monterey Bay. A 3.5-hour cruise with marine biologist narration, coffee or tea, and sightings of gray whales.
“Saw Wales from over 100mts maybe safety of boat and whale means no closer I was hoping for a better view”
Ride an e-bike through 17-Mile Drive from Pacific Grove, with wildlife viewpoints and an easy pace, plus a Pebble Beach Market stop.
“Clay our guide was outstanding! Very knowledgeable, patient, lots of smiles, fun to be around! Would recommend d the 17 mile drive trip to everyone”
Chase Monterey’s whales from Fisherman’s Wharf on a 2 to 3 hour boat ride with naturalists, multiple decks, and a VIP option.
“Great trip! We went on the 12:30 and saw so many whales. Highly recommend paying for the top deck. Better views, bathrooms, and less people.”
Sunset whale watching from Monterey with a marine biologist guide, likely dolphin and humpback sightings, plus calm sunset photo time.
“The team know their stuff. Nothing can be guaranteed of course but they deliver of their best to maximise the chances of seeing these magnificent, wild animals in the vast ocean. Absolutely top notch, must do, stunning experience.”
From San Francisco, cruise Highway 1 to Monterey and Carmel with 17-Mile Drive entry, photo stops, and guided time on the coast.
“Wry good trip in some ways under sold by the advert for it. Amazing coastal drive taking in unexpected areas of intetest”
Ride a guided **17-Mile Drive** e-bike loop with short stops for sea life and golf icons, plus 30 minutes to roam **Pebble Beach**.
“We had a great time and our tour guide, Noah, was awesome!! The sight seeing was beautiful! Highly recommend.”
Taste Carmel on a 3-hour small-group walk with wine, chocolate, honey and local lore, ending near Carmel Plaza.
“Absolutely wonderful!! Great food, drinks and informative tour gyide with a great personality! Overall 10/10”
Monterey Bay whale watching on a heated cruise with a marine guide. Look for humpbacks, dolphins, and more in 150 minutes.
“What an amazing experience. We saw so much activity. The guide was so informative. I’m glad we drove the 6 hours. It’s so worth it.”
Monterey Bay whale watching from Moss Landing with VIP upper-deck options. Chance to spot humpbacks, orcas, dolphins, and more.
“Bring a sweater and maybe even a beanie. The experience is great, even if you are cold. We saw several whales and the crew were very good about sending your eyes in the right direction to see them as they came up for air.”
