Half-Day Tour
From
$450
Start times: 9:30 am or 2 pm
A full experience in a focused outing.
Private wildlife & coastal tours — Monterey Bay & Big Sur.
Explore Monterey's wild coast with Emmy Award–winning National Geographic cinematographer and marine biologist Ernie Kovacs.
Discover hidden coves and dramatic overlooks. Spot sea otters diving through crashing waves and playful sea lions clambering over rocks. Ernie's entertaining stories and eye-opening insights make this a one-of-a-kind experience.
- Private tour for your party of up to 7
- Hotel pickup & transportation included
- Flexible itinerary customized to your interests
- Expert guide with a deep knowledge of this coastline
- Try Ernie's pro camera gear and take home a Nat Geo–worthy photo of your own
Meet your guide
Ernie Kovacs
Ernie has spent over 30 years exploring, studying, and filming this wild coast. He's an easygoing guide with an entertaining style — his natural storytelling, boundless curiosity, and eye-opening insights make every outing engaging and fun.
"It's an absolute blast for me to share the experience of this coastline."
Prices & Booking
Choose a half day or the full day.
Full-Day Tour
From
$800
Start times: 9 am or 10 am
A full day lets us expand your exploration in any direction you choose. We can drive further down Big Sur, walk longer coastal trails, visit historic areas of Monterey, build in a lunch stop, or visit galleries down the coast.
Why Monterey Wild
A private tour shaped around you.
We'll consult with you to suggest the perfect itinerary, pick you up, and take care of the details. You'll be able to simply relax, slow down, and enjoy your private excursion.
Expert guide, engaging stories
Tours led by a true expert with intimate knowledge of the land, history, and animals. Ernie's curiosity is contagious — expect great stories, genuine enthusiasm, and a style that makes the coast come alive.
Fun for the whole family
Ernie has a knack for engaging kids and teens, so you can relax and enjoy the day too.
Capture Nat Geo–quality wildlife photos
You'll even have a chance to capture your own Nat Geo–quality wildlife photos using Ernie's professional camera equipment — along with tips and tricks if you're interested.
Popular itineraries
Three classic routes — yours to shape.
You can't go wrong with one of these 3 favorites.
Half-day · Full-day
Monterey & 17-Mile Drive
A spectacular coastal drive that stays low and close to the ocean, making wildlife spotting easy and exploration effortless.
- Step out of the car and right onto the ocean's edge.
- Dramatic viewpoints and hidden pocket beaches.
- Dip your feet in the ocean.
- Pairs easily with historic locations in Monterey or Cannery Row.
Half-day · Full-day
Point Lobos
Walking trails right along the edge of the sea, and far from busy roads. Point Lobos has it all.
- Dramatic exposed headlands.
- Intricate coves.
- Rich wildlife.
- One of my favorites.
Half-day · Full-day
Big Sur Coast
One of California's most iconic drives. The road winds high above the ocean along the edge of steep cliffs.
- Mountains rise up out of the sea.
- Sweeping overlooks are awe-inspiring.
Questions & Answers
Frequently asked questions.
Click a question to read the answer. For more, head to the full FAQ page.
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What's included in your tour?
Included
- Private guide
- Your group, up to 7 passengers
- Pickup and drop-off at your chosen location (within the Monterey/Carmel area)
- Consultation to determine an itinerary tailored for you
- Light snacks and drinks
- Two pairs of binoculars
- High magnification spotting scope
- Professional camera gear to try out
- All park entrance and parking fees
Not included
- Meals
- Pickup outside (Monterey, Carmel, Carmel Highlands, Seaside, Marina). If outside this area call to make a custom booking.
- Optional gratuity
- I do not have a carseat for infants or toddlers.
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What should I wear?
Dress in warm layers — coastal weather can change quickly throughout the day. A windproof outer layer is especially helpful, as ocean breezes are cold even in summer. On the same day, sheltered spots can warm up fast.
- Comfortable walking shoes suitable for trails.
- Layers you can easily add or remove.
- People are often shocked how cold it can be. Bring those extra layers. You can always leave them in the van, there will be plenty of room.
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What else should I bring?
Warm layers and a sense of curiosity and adventure.
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What is your cancellation policy?
- Free cancellation up to 72 hours before departure (full refund).
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What area does the pickup and drop-off service cover?
For pickup and drop-off, we service Monterey, Carmel, Carmel Highlands, Seaside, and Marina. (If service is desired outside this area, call to make a custom booking).