2-Hour Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour

Our review focuses on the 2-Hour Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour, a unique way to see some of California’s most beautiful coastal towns without the hassle of traditional car rentals. While we haven’t personally driven this quirky vehicle ourselves, the feedback, photos, and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of what travelers can expect.

What we love about this experience is the independent exploration it offers—no guides fussing in your ear, just you and the coast, guided by a GPS that’s also your narrator. Plus, the scenic stops around Fisherman’s Wharf, Lover’s Point, and Cannery Row promise a taste of Monterey’s charm in a compact, two-hour adventure.

However, a word of caution: the vehicle condition and navigation quality have been points of contention among some reviewers. If you’re after a pristine, high-tech experience or are sensitive to older equipment, this might be something to consider.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate a flexible, self-guided approach to sightseeing and are comfortable riding a scooter-like vehicle. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a fun, interactive way to explore without the complexities of traditional tours or car rentals.

Key Points

• The GPS-guided Sea Car allows independent exploration with automated narration.
• The tour covers key sights like Fisherman’s Wharf, Lover’s Point, and Cannery Row.
• It’s a two-hour experience designed for up to 2 passengers per vehicle.
• The price, $149 per group, offers a reasonable value for a personalized coastal adventure.
• The vehicle includes helmets and a full tank of gas, simplifying logistics.
• The tour reviews are mixed but highlight stunning views and good value for most travelers.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Sea Car itself is a nifty, two-seat vehicle powered by a scooter engine, featuring GPS navigation and narration. “We loved the way it maneuvered easily in traffic and tight spots,” one visitor remarked, emphasizing how hassle-free driving in busy areas can be in this compact vehicle. The inclusion of helmet safety gear and a full petrol tank makes the experience straightforward—no surprises or extra costs.

The GPS system is a central feature. It’s designed to guide you smoothly along the route and provide commentary, which many travelers found helpful. As one reviewer noted, “The voice on it was loud enough & was helpful,” though some found the screen hard to see in bright sunlight. This combination of independence and guidance is a real plus for those who prefer to set their own pace without a tour guide riding shotgun.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting at 230 Alvarado Street in Monterey, the tour takes you along the waterfront and through some of the most scenic parts of Monterey and Pacific Grove. You’ll first zip through Fisherman’s Wharf area, where the lively marine atmosphere and seafood shacks set the tone. From there, the route ideally includes Lover’s Point—famous for its sweeping ocean views and calm waters, perfect for photos or a quick stop.

Next, the tour meanders along Cannery Row, a historic district filled with shops, eateries, and stories of Monterey’s sardine canning heyday. The route also offers stops along the coast, where you can hop out, breathe in the sea air, and snap some pictures.

One thing to keep in mind is that the vehicle doesn’t go backwards, making parking and stopping a tiny bit more challenging. Several reviews mention that stopping and maneuvering can be tricky if you’re not used to scooters or similar vehicles. The outdated or lagging tech on the GPS screen has also been noted, which could cause some frustration, especially on bright days when visibility is compromised.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are a mixture, but many highlight the fun of the experience and the stunning scenery. A satisfied customer shared, “We had a beautiful day to be out and about touring the area. We saw places we’d never seen before and maneuvered very easily,” confirming that the tour delivers on its promise of a flexible, scenic drive.

Meanwhile, some less enthusiastic comments focus on vehicle condition—noting broken mirrors, torn seats, and body damage. One reviewer said, “The cars were in such poor shape,” which suggests that if you’re expecting a pristine, brand-new vehicle, you might be disappointed.

On the positive side, many appreciated the value for money. For just $149, you get a personalized tour that covers key sights without the crowds or fixed schedules of larger group trips. The self-guided narrative allows you to linger where you like and skip spots that don’t interest you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy independent adventures and want a fun, different way to see Monterey’s highlights, this tour can be a hit. It’s especially suitable for those comfortable on scooters or similar vehicles, as the vehicle’s design is quite similar. Family groups with children over age 7 are welcome, provided they’re accompanied by an adult, and the maximum height allowed is 6’3” (190 cm), making it accessible for most.

However, if you’re looking for a high-tech, perfectly maintained vehicle or a guided experience with a guide speaking in your ear, this might not be the best fit. Those who prioritize superior vehicle condition and advanced tech might want to explore alternative options.

Practicalities & Tips

• Booking: The tour is typically booked about 10 days in advance, which suggests it’s popular but not always fully booked.
• Meeting Point: Located on Alvarado Street, the start point is accessible and near public transportation, ideal for those staying centrally.
• Duration: At around 2 hours, it’s a manageable outing that fits easily into a day of sightseeing.
• Cost: $149 per group (up to 2 people), which is reasonable considering it’s a private experience. Remember, it’s priced per car, not per person.
• Extras: Collision Damage Waiver is optional for $12 and covers damages up to $500—something worth considering for peace of mind.
• Restrictions: Drivers must be 18+ with a valid license, and children over 7 can ride but must be accompanied by an adult.

Final Thoughts

The 2-Hour Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour offers an engaging, flexible way to explore the coast on your own terms. If you’re looking for a casual, scenic ride with some tech-savvy guidance, this is worth considering—especially if you appreciate the idea of a small, nimble vehicle that can squeeze into tight spots and gives you control over your sightseeing pace.

While vehicle condition and navigation tech have received mixed reviews, many travelers found the experience to be a fun, authentic way to take in Monterey’s sights without the hassle of traditional tours or large bus groups. It’s particularly appealing to those who value staying in control of their adventure and enjoy the novelty of navigating a GPS-guided scooter.

This tour may not suit everyone—if you prefer a pristine vehicle or a more guided approach, other options might be better. But for those seeking a unique, budget-friendly coastal exploration, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQs

Do I need to have experience riding a scooter?
You should be comfortable on a scooter or similar vehicle, as the Sea Car is a scooter-like vehicle. If you’ve never ridden anything like it, this might feel a bit challenging.

Can I bring children?
Yes, children aged 7 and up can participate if accompanied by an adult. The maximum height is 6’3” (190 cm), making it suitable for most.

Is the GPS system reliable?
Most reviewers found the GPS voice helpful, though some noted the screen can be hard to see in sunlight, and the tech may lag or be outdated.

What’s included in the price?
You get the rental of the GPS-guided vehicle, safety orientation, a full tank of gas, a helmet, and a map. The collision damage waiver is optional for $12.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs, but make sure to consider the optional damage waiver if you want peace of mind.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately two hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the sights at a relaxed pace.

Where do I meet the tour?
At 230 Alvarado Street in Monterey, a convenient location near public transit.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
No, this tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers a memorable, fun, and flexible way to see Monterey and Pacific Grove. It’s best suited for those who enjoy self-guided adventures and are comfortable on a scooter, with the bonus of stunning coastal views and no guide’s voice in your ear.