17-Mile Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour from Monterey & Carmel

Traveling along California’s famed 17-Mile Drive is often considered a must-do for visitors to Monterey and Carmel. This self-guided audio tour from Adventures with Action promises to make your journey more enriching, providing not just beautiful vistas but also stories and insights at each stop. Whether you’re a solo traveler, family, or couple, this tour aims to offer a flexible, engaging way to experience this iconic coastal route.

What we love about this experience is its affordable price—just $14.99 per group—and the ability to use the tour multiple times over a year, making it perfect for repeat visits. The second is the use of GPS-enabled offline maps, which ensures you stay on track even without a cellular signal. However, some users have noted that setting up the app can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with downloading and navigating new apps. This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer exploring independently with a mix of information, scenic beauty, and flexibility.

Who would this tour suit best? It’s perfect for those who enjoy self-paced adventures, want to avoid crowded guided tours, and appreciate having stories and historical tidbits delivered directly to their phones. It’s also great for those planning multiple visits, thanks to its year-long accessibility. If you’re comfortable with a bit of tech setup and are looking for a budget-friendly way to dive deep into the region’s history and scenery, this is a solid pick.

Key Points

• Self-guided flexibility allows you to explore at your own pace without rushing.
• Multiple-use license makes it an excellent value for repeat visits.
• GPS map and offline functionality ensure you stay on route without Wi-Fi.
• Engaging storytelling enhances the experience with stories behind the sights.
• Affordable price at just $14.99 per group for a full 3-4 hour tour.
• Ideal for independent travelers seeking convenience and depth.

What You Can Expect from This 17-Mile Drive Tour

Introduction and Starting Point

Your journey begins in downtown Monterey near the historic Fisherman’s Wharf, giving you a chance to soak in the lively waterfront atmosphere before heading out. The tour covers the scenic 23 miles of the famous 17-Mile Drive, which is renowned worldwide for its incredible vistas along California’s coastline.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: 17-Mile Drive
This is where you’ll set off on what many consider one of the most beautiful coastal drives in the world. The tour emphasizes that it takes approximately 2-4 hours to cover the essentials, making it manageable whether you want a quick look or a leisurely exploration. The drive begins with spectacular views, lush golf courses, and pristine seaside landscapes.

What Travelers Say:
One reviewer calls it “super cool,” praising the “amazing views” and noting it’s perfect for families. The ability to revisit the tour multiple times over the year means those views can be enjoyed again and again.

Stop 2: Old Fisherman’s Wharf
A quick first stop, this historic waterfront area offers a glimpse into Monterey’s fishing past. While no ticket is needed, it’s an excellent spot to stretch your legs, soak in the maritime atmosphere, and maybe pick up some fresh seafood.

Stop 3: Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium
Made famous by John Steinbeck, Cannery Row is a lively stretch filled with shops, eateries, and oceanfront views. The tour doesn’t include entry to the aquarium, but it’s worth noting as a nearby highlight, especially if you’re interested in marine life.

What Travelers Say:
Some appreciated the storytelling about the history of Cannery Row, noting it added context to the sights. If you want to see the aquarium itself, it’s an optional stop along the route.

Stops Along the Drive:
As you drive past the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse (1855), you’ll learn about its importance to maritime safety. The Kissing Rock formation, resembling a couple kissing, is an interesting natural feature that’s a favorite photo spot. The drive also skirts Asilomar Beach, famous for tidepools teeming with marine creatures—great for nature lovers.

Viewpoints and Natural Landmarks:
The Fanshell Overlook provides stunning coastal panoramas, and the Lone Cypress, perched dramatically on a granite outcrop, is arguably the most iconic symbol of 17-Mile Drive. It’s a photo opportunity that’s well worth the visit, especially as it’s often shrouded in fog, adding to its mysterious vibe.

Point Joe and China Rock offer stories of shipwrecks and early settlements. You might find the tales of the “Restless Sea” intriguing, as the rocky underwater formations beneath the waves caused numerous historical shipwrecks.

Wildlife and Scenic Spots

The drive boasts excellent wildlife viewing, especially between November and March, when gray whales might spout in the distance. The rocky coves are home to seals and sea lions, and the rocks are always lively with birds.

End at Pebble Beach

The tour concludes at Pebble Beach, one of the world’s most famous golf courses and beaches, with pristine sands and striking coastal cliffs. It’s a fitting end to a scenic journey, and most visitors agree it’s a memorable spot for photos and reflection.

The Practical Side: Price, Duration, and Ease of Use

The $14.99 group price is notably affordable, especially considering you can use the tour multiple times within a year. This makes it a smart choice for travelers planning more than one visit or for families wanting a shared experience without the expense of guided tours.

The 3 to 4 hours duration is flexible, allowing you to spend more time at favorites or skip certain stops if pressed for time. The self-guided nature means you can start whenever you like, take breaks, and explore side roads or attractions at your leisure.

Using the app requires a one-time download of Action’s Tour Guide App and entering a password. Once set up, it works offline, which is essential in remote areas with poor cell coverage. The GPS map makes navigation straightforward, and the stories are triggered automatically based on your location—no complicated instructions needed.

However, a few reviewers mention that initial setup can be a bit fiddly. It’s best to download everything beforehand, preferably with a strong Wi-Fi connection, to avoid frustrations once you’re on the road. The app is designed to be hands-free, so once you’re underway, it’s a simple matter of listening and following the route.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many users praise the engaging storytelling, with one noting, “The stories and audios at each stop made the experience great.” The narrator’s voice is often highlighted as a positive feature—clear, pleasant, and informative.

Some encountered minor glitches, such as audio overlapping if driving too fast or trying to rush through stops. “Keeping to the recommended pace ensures a seamless experience,” advises one reviewer, so it’s best to follow the suggested speed limits.

Travelers also appreciate the flexibility, with many stating they used the tour multiple times: “Buy once, use for one year,” makes it especially ideal for visitors who plan to return or extend their stay.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour is best suited for independent travelers who enjoy discovering sights at their own pace without the pressure of a guided group. Perfect for families or couples who want a relaxed day with plenty of scenic photo opportunities and stories behind the sights. It’s also a good fit for return visitors, thanks to its one-year validity, or for those who prefer a budget-conscious alternative to guided tours.

If you’re comfortable with technology and enjoy learning about local history and natural features, this product offers excellent value. It’s not a traditional guided experience, but with the GPS map and offline audio, it provides a comprehensive route with engaging commentary.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For just $14.99, you get an informative, flexible way to explore one of California’s most breathtaking drives. The stories add context to the vistas, making each stop more meaningful. The ability to revisit the tour over a year means you can take your time and savor the scenery at your own speed.

While setup can be a little tricky for some, once you’re on the road, the app’s ease of use and offline functionality make it a reliable companion. This tour strikes a good balance between value and experience, offering much more than just a scenic drive.

In short, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, independent way to enjoy the 17-Mile Drive with a bit of storytelling and flexibility, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a personalized exploration and want to learn a bit about the region’s natural and cultural history along the way.

FAQ

Do I need Wi-Fi to use the tour?
No. The tour downloads onto the app and works offline once set up, so you can enjoy it even in remote areas with no signal.

How long does the tour take?
The essentials of the 17-Mile Drive generally take about 2 to 4 hours, depending on how many stops you want to explore and how much time you spend at each.

Can I use the tour multiple times?
Yes. The ticket is valid for one year, making it a great choice for multiple visits or revisiting favorite spots.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes. Many reviews highlight that it’s perfect for families, with engaging stories and scenic stops that appeal to all ages.

What’s included in the price?
You get the self-guided audio tour, GPS-enabled offline maps, and the ability to start and pause as you wish.

Are attraction tickets included?
No, the tour does not include entry to attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium or Pebble Beach, but they are nearby and worth visiting.

How do I get started?
After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with instructions to download the app, enter the password, and download the tour for offline use.

What if I encounter technical issues?
Support is available, and the app is designed to be straightforward. It’s best to set everything up before you start your drive to avoid last-minute confusion.

To sum it up, this self-guided audio tour offers a budget-friendly, flexible, and enriching way to experience California’s legendary 17-Mile Drive. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a second look, it makes the scenic journey more memorable with stories, stunning views, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.