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98 Available Tour Excursions in Monterey & Carmel
Venture into the depths of Monterey Bay for an unforgettable small-group whale watching experience aboard Enocean's 27-foot Robalo. Departing from Moss Landing Harbor, this tour offers unobstructed views of whales and dolphins as you explore the nearby Monterey Submarine Canyon. Opt for the extended 5-hour tour to increase your chances of encountering blue and fin whales, especially during peak seasons. Enjoy personalized onboard photography advice, and receive a photo package afterward, ensuring you capture every moment of your wildlife adventure. - Choose from 3-hour and 5-hour whale watching tours - Maximum of 6 passengers ensures a personalized experience - Opportunities to see a variety of marine wildlife including orcas and humpbacks - Private charters available for intimate group outings
Price: $225.00
Duration: 3 hours
This comprehensive tour offers a fantastic introduction to the breathtaking beauty of the Monterey Peninsula, featuring sightseeing in Monterey, Pacific Grove, Pebble Beach (with 17 Mile Drive entry included!), and charming Carmel-by-the-Sea. You'll delve into local history and explore iconic points of interest such as the bustling Fisherman's Wharf and historic Cannery Row. Throughout the day, several carefully chosen stops, such as Lover's Point Park, Bird Rock, The Lone Cypress, and the renowned Pebble Beach Lodge, will provide unparalleled opportunities to enjoy the stunning scenery and spot abundant marine wildlife, including sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and even whales! Perfect for first-time visitors, this tour provides a comprehensive and memorable exploration of this world-renowned coastal region.
Price: $240.00
Duration: 3 hours
What makes this Big Sur tour truly unique is our over 25 years of unparalleled expertise in guiding educational adventures through the majestic Monterey County, offering you a deep dive into the natural wonders of the Big Sur coast and fascinating insights into the ancient redwood trees that define this region. Our carefully curated itinerary ensures you experience the best, from a brief stop at an iconic 1932 concrete bridge offering spectacular coastal views, to the quirky charm of The River Inn where you can refresh and see the famous chairs in the Big Sur River. Prepare for an awe-inspiring moment at the highest viewpoint on Highway 1 in California, providing a spectacular 180-degree panorama of the dramatic coastline, before culminating your journey with a visit to the historic Big Sur Lodge for an intimate, guided nature walk in an old-growth redwood forest, complete with a unique Big Sur River crossing.
Price: $248.00
Duration: 3 hours
GuideAlong's Audio Tour takes you on an incredible self-guided journey along this scenic 130 mile stretch of California’s coast. Along the way you'll be guided to all of the area's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including towering Redwood trees, an elephant seal observation deck, and an iconic seaside restaurant. This self-guided audio tour helps you discover more on your road trip with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions that plays automatically along the drive. With GyPSy Guide you have the freedom to explore offline at your own pace so you can spend more time at places that interest you. ✅ Tour operate in both directions ✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location ✅ Travel at your own pace ✅ Tours work offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed ✅ Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use ✅ Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates Purchase one tour per vehicle.
Price: $16.99
Duration: 8-16 hours
What truly sets this Afternoon Half-day, Carmel Valley Wine Tasting Tour apart is the unparalleled expertise of your guide, who not only boasts over 25 years of hands-on experience in the region but also holds a Master's Degree in Viticulture. This isn't just a tasting; it's an immersive educational journey! You'll gain a profound understanding of the unique terroir, specific varietals thriving in Monterey County, and intricate winemaking processes directly from a true expert, offering insights far beyond a typical tour and making for a truly unique and sophisticated exploration of Carmel Valley's renowned wine scene.
Price: $271.00
Duration: 3 hours
Indulge in a delightful chocolate-making with an optional wine or craft beer tasting at The Wine Experience on Cannery Row, Monterey. Under the guidance of Carrie Griffin, a seasoned wine curator turned chocolate enthusiast, learn to temper chocolate, craft truffle shells, and fill them with smooth ganache. This two-hour hands-on class ensures you leave with a beautiful box of your own decadent creations, perfect for sharing or indulging yourself. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a fun outing with friends, this experience is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Two-hour chocolate truffle-making class at Cannery Row Optional tastings of four Central Coast wines or craft beers Led by Carrie Griffin, a passionate host with years of wine expertise Group sizes up to 10, perfect for couples, friends, and private parties
Price: $69.00
Duration: 2 hours
Unleash your adventurous side with our Unlimited Games Package! This pass grants you the freedom to explore Monterey's delights while indulging in some truly unique fun. Dive into the only underground mini golf course in Monterey, where vibrant neon lights and exciting, age-friendly obstacles create an unforgettable experience. But that's not all – you'll also get to try our exclusive 1-2 Putt game, found only at Tipsy Putt. This one-of-a-kind 9-hole course combines the best elements of golf, shuffleboard, and pool, encouraging you to enjoy a drink while you play. With no time limits, you can play as many rounds as you like, making every visit a new adventure. Take breaks whenever you want to refuel with delicious food and sip on local beer, wine, and cocktails. The Unlimited Games Package ensures an exciting and memorable day filled with fun, laughter, and endless possibilities!
Price: $24.00
Duration: 11 hours
This tour offers a truly distinctive Carmel Valley experience, highlighted by exclusive access to Bernardus Winery's Ingrid’s Vineyard for a unique educational walk led by your guide who has over 30 years' experience in the vineyard, followed by a premium tasting at the Bernardus Tasting Room. What truly sets this journey apart is the flexibility of your second tasting, allowing for a personalized discovery from an impressive roster of highly-regarded wineries like Chesebro and McIntyre Vineyards, ensuring a diverse and tailored palate exploration. Beyond the exceptional wines, the tour provides a holistic appreciation of Carmel Valley's charm, with observations of iconic points of interest such as Earthbound Farms' organic produce stand, world-class golf courses, and vibrant flower nurseries.
Price: $260.00
Duration: 3 hours
This self-guided, self-paced audio walking tour will explore the rugged Carmel coastline where you will have stunning views of Point Lobos, Carmel Beach and Carmel River State Beach. The tour winds its way through the charming tree-lined streets of Carmel Point where you'll discover a number of the unique homes built on this one-time windswept treeless bluff. Along the way, you'll hear about Carmel's famous houses, its flora and fauna, the movies filmed on the point, and the first softball league in the US. You'll come across some colorful characters from the past such as Jean Arthur and Robinson Jeffers. The tour is ready whenever you are. The tour begins and ends at the Walker House Cabin on the Rocks. So start your tour with the VoiceMap app, put your phone in your pocket, and let us direct you on this adventure of Carmel-by-the-Sea Carmel Point Walking tour. Happy Adventures!
Price: $8.99
Duration: 1-2 hours
We offer a meet and greet service for you or your client(s). Or have your executives or family members transferred to or from home in a 5 Stars rated Airport Transportation for that extra space or add a little extra excitement. 5 STARS Limousine Connection chauffeurs will greet you on arrival, assist with gathering your luggage and take you to your destination in style and comfort. No lugging bulky baggage on and off shuttles or in and out of taxis – your driver takes all the fuss out of this part of your journey leaving you free to enjoy the scenery and relax. We monitor all commercial flights, even if its delayed or early you can count on our professionals to be there when you arrive.
Price: $549.53
Duration: 2-3 hours
⭐ Top-Rated Vacation Photoshoots 2025 We’re not just photographers, we’re storytellers capturing your holiday exactly as it feels. With over six years of experience photographing travellers around the world, our small team specialises in authentic, natural photography that truly reflects your trip. In Big Sur, we combine creativity with local knowledge to show you hidden gems, secret angles, and the best light. You’ll not only get beautiful, professional photos but also insider tips to make the most of your time here. We’re proud to be recognised among the top-rated photography tours of 2025, trusted by travellers worldwide for our relaxed style and stunning results.
Price: $182.10
Duration: 1 hours
Discover the stunning beauty of Monterey Bay aboard your own private sailing charter. This experience caters to all ages and interests. Venture along the coastline, soak in the vibrant wildlife, and enjoy the serene ocean atmosphere. From spotting whales and dolphins to relaxing under the sun, this trip is customized for your group’s enjoyment. Perfect for families or friends seeking a unique aquatic adventure in California's picturesque coastal waters. - 2-hour trip - Capacity for up to 6 guests, ensuring an intimate experience. - Opportunities for wildlife viewing, including whales and sea otters. - All trips are led by a professional captain for a safe and enjoyable journey.
Price: $965.00
Duration: 2 hours
This nature walk takes you through serene woodlands, along craggy cliffs and beautiful coves. You may spot otters, seals and sealions, deer and birds. This is a mecca for taking memorable photos. Hearing the amazing human history of this unique piece of land will be part of your experience.
Price: $59.00
Duration: 2 hours
Your walk opens up a whole new vista of Carmel for you while our guides, who are skilled storytellers, weave together the tales of the arts and artists, architecture and history and the unbelievable stories of the people who created this unique village in a forest which is Carmel.
Price: $49.00
Duration: 2 hours
Experience world-famous 17-Mile Drive and charming Carmel-by-the-Sea in one spectacular eBike adventure! Starting just outside the Pacific Grove Gate, ride into Pebble Beach and along its legendary coastline, passing dramatic ocean vistas, wildlife, famous golf courses, incredible mansions and iconic landmarks including the Lone Cypress and The Lodge at Pebble Beach. From the Lodge, continue into Carmel-by-the-Sea to explore its fairy-tale cottages, tree-lined streets, beautiful homes and spectacular Scenic Road along Carmel Beach. Our powerful eBikes make the hills easy, but this is NOT a beginner tour. The ~20-mile, 3–3.5 hour route includes sections between The Lodge and Carmel with heavier traffic, no bike lanes and speeds approaching 20 mph. ADVANCED, CONFIDENT CYCLISTS ONLY. Riders must be comfortable riding alongside traffic and controlling a bike at higher speeds.
Price: $79.00
Duration: 3-3 hours
The ONLY Thai cooking class in Monterey! Fun & Tasty Party + Memorable Experience Plan your special holidays, surprise date night, birthday, bachelorette parties, company retreat, team building and family reunion events with Thai cooking class or just want to have fun learning about Thai cuisine. Tantalizing Thai food--Learn how to cook delicious and nutritious meals in no time! The class can be held with two people but expand up to six. It is a fun activity for everyone. We operate rain or shine! The class begins with learning the basics of Thai herbs and spices and what utensil and ingredients are typically found in a Thai kitchen. We will cover a wide assortment of famous Thai recipes and then proceed to learn to cook two of them and of course, enjoy dining together.
Price: $135.00
Duration: 1 hours
During your tour you'll enjoy visits to three hand-selected wine tasting rooms with carefully curated tastings at each one. You'll also learn from local sommeliers about the region’s unique climates that produce a variety of world-renowned wines. And when it comes to enjoying Carmel, while guide books and websites might steer you in the right direction, there’s nothing quite like experiencing Carmel through the eyes of a local. Our expert guides will bring the town’s storied history to life. Going beyond the standard highlights you will explore what lies off the beaten path. And if you’re looking to make the most of your visit after the tour, our walking concierges will share our best recommendations for restaurants, bars, shopping, hiking and more!
Price: $159.00
Duration: 3 hours
Discover Monterey Through Its Flavors Experience Old Monterey like never before on this leisurely, guided food tour that highlights the best local flavors and hidden culinary gems. Stroll through the historic downtown district as you taste your way through five diverse food and drink stops—from savory bites and freshly made crepes to locally brewed beer and small-batch ice cream. As you walk, your guide will share fascinating stories about Monterey’s rich history, colorful characters, and cultural landmarks. Along the way, you’ll support local restaurants and artisans while uncovering spots you may want to revisit later. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your hometown, this tour offers a delicious and insightful way to spend the day.
Price: $175.00
Duration: 3 hours
Key Info for Visitors
- Currency: USD
- Languages: English, Spanish
- Climate: Mediterranean
- Timezone: America/Los_Angeles
- Population: Monterey has approximately 28,000 residents; Carmel-by-the-Sea has about 3,800 residents.
- Best Time to Visit: best time to visit is from May to October for pleasant weather.
- Visa Requirements Visitors from the US do not require a visa. Citizens from the EU, UK, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter the United States visa-free for short tourist stays under the Visa Waiver Program, but must obtain an ESTA authorization prior to travel. Other nationalities may require a visa obtained in advance. Visa on arrival is not available. It is recommended to check the latest US visa policies before travel.
About Monterey & Carmel
Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea are two charming coastal destinations located on California’s picturesque Central Coast. Monterey is famous for its rich maritime history, vibrant waterfront, and the world-renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium. Carmel, just a few miles south, is known for its fairy-tale cottages, art galleries, and pristine white-sand beaches. Together, they offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and small-town charm. Visitors are drawn to the dramatic coastline along the 17-Mile Drive, the opportunity to explore marine life, and the quaint village atmosphere of Carmel with its boutique shops and gourmet dining. The region’s Mediterranean climate makes it ideal for year-round visits, with mild temperatures and refreshing ocean breezes. Whether seeking outdoor adventures like whale watching and hiking or a romantic getaway with fine dining and art, Monterey and Carmel provide an unforgettable experience on California’s scenic coast.
Monterey & Carmel Tours & Experiences
- Top Attractions: Highlights of California
- Duration Range: 2-8 hours
- Group Size: Flexible group sizes
- Difficulty Level: All Comfort Levels
- Recommended For: The best time to visit is from May to October for pleasant weather. Pack layers due to cool ocean breezes. Respect local wildlife and natural areas. Carry cash or cards as most places accept both. Be prepared for some walking on uneven terrain. Safety is generally good, but standard precautions apply. Booking accommodations and tours in advance is recommended during peak seasons.
Average Tour Price: $75
Lowest Price Tour: $39
Highest Price Tour: $200
Important Tour Information
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
- Check tour cancellation and refund policies
- Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
- Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
Local Food & Cuisine
The culinary scene features fresh seafood, including clam chowder, Dungeness crab, and abalone. Local specialties include cioppino, a seafood stew, and artichoke dishes. Carmel offers fine dining with a focus on Californian cuisine and local wines. Noteworthy restaurants include The Sardine Factory in Monterey and Aubergine in Carmel, known for their elegant menus and ocean views.
Getting Around
Monterey Regional Airport serves the area with regional flights. Visitors can also drive via Highway 1 or take buses from nearby cities. Local transportation includes shuttles, taxis, and bike rentals. Driving is convenient for exploring the wider region, though parking in downtown Carmel can be limited and sometimes requires payment.
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is from May to October for pleasant weather. Pack layers due to cool ocean breezes. Respect local wildlife and natural areas. Carry cash or cards as most places accept both. Be prepared for some walking on uneven terrain. Safety is generally good, but standard precautions apply. Booking accommodations and tours in advance is recommended during peak seasons.
Culture & Customs
The area values environmental conservation and artistic expression. Visitors should respect quiet residential neighborhoods, especially in Carmel, where noise ordinances are strict. Local festivals include the Carmel Art Festival and Monterey Jazz Festival. Tipping is customary in restaurants and for services. Friendly and polite interactions are appreciated.
About The Author
Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.
Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.
Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..