Monterey Wild Private Coastal Tours
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Popular itineraries

Three classic routes — yours to shape.

The Lone Cypress along 17-Mile Drive

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.

This itinerary lets you do a bit of everything in a half day. It's a great choice if you also want to visit historic Monterey/Cannery Row. If you want a peek at some of the world-famous golf courses, this is also your best itinerary.

Coastline near Point Lobos with turquoise surf

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.
  • Has a neat museum in the old Whalers Cabin. Lots of history here.

Spectacular coastline, wildlife viewing opportunities, and unique trails along the edge of the sea, makes Point Lobos one of my personal favorites. I suggest either two short hikes of 0.8 miles each, or a longer hike with 2 to 6 mile options. Great if you want a good walk during your tour. (In summer or on weekends this should be a morning tour because of limited parking.) Choose full day if you'd like to do the 6 mile hike or if you'd like to combine hikes here with a drive down the Big Sur coast. Point Lobos also has great wheelchair accessible trails.

Bixby Bridge on the Big Sur coast

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.

Driving the Big Sur coast is often a priority for visitors, and for good reason. This iconic stretch of road feels wild and on the edge, as it skirts high, steep cliffs. It's a place that makes me feel energized and alive. Much of this coast is not really hikeable, but it is an amazing drive and you're never far from a spectacular overlook to stop at and take in the wildness. There are a few great hiking options at the beginning or end of this drive. A half day tour can be enough to get a great overview, but book a full day if you want to venture even further down the coast, do a hike, or explore some shops, galleries, and lunch spots. Much of the highway is high above the water, so if you're wanting to spot wildlife there may be better options.

Your day on the coast — shaped around you.

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