Driving the California Coast: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Driving the California Coast: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

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About This Tour in Monterey & Carmel

Experience a spectacular driving tour that follows Highway 1 to Big Sur, often called “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world.” You’ll be greeted by views of the Santa Lucia Mountains rising abruptly from the Pacific Ocean, in contrast with the jagged rock cliffs and churning seas. This section of Highway 1 is considered one of the most scenic driving routes in the United States, if not the world. It’s filled with unblemished natural scenery and dotted with four state parks, hidden beaches, rocky coves and rolling hills. On the tour, you’ll pass by the historic D.L. James House now owned by actor Brad Pitt, cross the iconic Bixby Bridge, pass by the prominent volcanic rock home of the Point Sur Light Station to the Big Sur River Inn and the famous Nepenthe Restaurant before we stop at the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. All stops, visits to state parks and subsequent hikes are optional and parking fees for state parks are not included in the price of this tour.

Why Visit Monterey & Carmel?

Monterey & Carmel, USA offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Monterey & Carmel provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.

Getting to Monterey & Carmel

You can reach Monterey & Carmel, USA by air, train, or road depending on your starting location. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare service (Uber, Lyft), or public transportation to reach the city center. Many hotels also offer shuttle services, and rental cars are widely available for exploring the area.

What's Included

  • VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
  • Lifetime access to this tour in English
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

What's Not Included

  • Food and drink
  • Smartphone and headphones
  • Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
  • Transportation

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Information

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Public transportation options are available nearby

Customer Reviews

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Meeting and Pickup

Meeting Point

The tour passes by the Point Lobos Natural Reserve

Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.

End Point

The tour ends in the parking lot for the McWay Waterfall hike.

Pickup Information

Pickup Option: All travelers must meet at start point

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

The tour passes by the Point Lobos Natural Reserve

The tour passes by the Point Lobos Natural Reserve. If you want, you have the opportunity to visit the park although it isn't included in the tour.

The tour passes by the Carmel Highlands

The tour passes by the Carmel Highlands.

The tour takes you around Yankee Point Drive

The tour takes you around Yankee Point Drive.

The tour takes you over the Malpaso Creek Bridge

The tour takes you over the Malpaso Creek Bridge.

The tour takes you through Garrapata State Park

The tour takes you through Garrapata State Park.

The tour takes you over the Garrapata Creek Bridge

The tour takes you over the Garrapata Creek Bridge.

The tour passes by Notley's Landing viewpoint

The tour passes by Notley's Landing viewpoint.

The tour passes by Rocky Creek Bridge

The tour passes by Rocky Creek Bridge.

The tour goes over Bixby Creek Bridge

The tour goes over Bixby Creek Bridge.

The tour passes by Hurricane Point view

The tour passes by Hurricane Point view.

The tour passes by Point Sur

The tour passes by Point Sur.

The tour passes through Andrew Molera State Park

The tour passes through Andrew Molera State Park.

The tour passes by the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Sign

The tour passes by the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Sign.

The tour passes over the Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge

The tour passes over the Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge.

The tour passes by the Nepenthe restaurant

The tour passes by the Nepenthe restaurant.

The tour passes by the Henry Miller Memorial Library

The tour passes by the Henry Miller Memorial Library.

The tour passes by Grimes Canyon

The tour passes by Grimes Canyon.

The tour passes by Partington Cove

The tour passes by Partington Cove.

The tour ends at the McWay Waterfall Trailhead parking lot

The tour ends at the McWay Waterfall Trailhead parking lot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How do I book this tour?

Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.

Book Your Experience

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