Full Day, Monterey Peninsula, 17 Mile Dr and Carmel eBike Rental

If you’re considering a day of exploring California’s iconic coastline without the hassle of driving, this eBike rental experience from Big Sur Adventures might be just the ticket. It promises a full-day coastal access pass to some of the most photographed spots along the Monterey Peninsula, including Pebble Beach and Carmel. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist, a family looking for a relaxed adventure, or a solo traveler eager to soak up views at your own pace, this tour can offer a flexible and scenic way to experience the area.

Two things we especially like about this experience are the complementary shop-to-shop battery swaps—which eliminate worries about running out of juice—and the remote-return option, allowing you to linger as long as you like during golden hour. One possible consideration: it’s an 8-hour commitment, so it’s best suited for those ready for a day in the saddle and with some comfort with e-biking. If you’re hoping for a laid-back, scenic tour with a mix of leisurely stopovers and enough flexibility to chase sunsets or enjoy a relaxed lunch, this tour can be a fantastic fit.

This experience best suits active travelers who love the outdoors, want to avoid crowded buses, and appreciate authentic coastal scenery. Families with children over 12, solo explorers, or groups eager for a customized day of riding along California’s legendary coastline will find this offers excellent value for a memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Flexible, full-day eBike access lets you explore at your own pace.
• Includes battery swaps, helmets, locks, making riding worry-free.
• Remote-return option means you can stay for sunset or extend your visit.
• Tailored route suggestions based on your interests and timing.
• Suitable for families, solo riders, and groups with various bike models.
• Easy to book with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

What to Expect from Your Monterey & Carmel eBike Adventure

This is no ordinary bike rental. Big Sur Adventures offers a comprehensive, flexible experience that combines the thrill of riding with the pleasure of sightseeing. The key to getting the most out of this tour is understanding what the day entails and how it fits into your travel style.

Starting Point: Pacific Grove and the Pebble Beach Gate

Your day begins just outside the Pebble Beach gate in Pacific Grove. The staff will fit you with a bike suited to your size and riding ability—with more than 50 e-bike models to choose from, they cater to families, solo explorers, and groups of all ages. The quick safety orientation ensures everyone is comfortable before hitting the road, so don’t worry if you’re new to e-biking; instruction is straightforward and friendly.

Riding the 17-Mile Drive: A Coastal Spectacle

The heart of this experience is the famous 17-Mile Drive. When you hop onto your e-bike, you’ll coast past some of California’s most iconic sights: the Lone Cypress, dramatic cliffs, and white sandy beaches. The e-bikes make this challenging terrain accessible, so you can focus on the views rather than exertion.

The route is flexible—if you want to slow down for photos or appreciate a particular vista, you can. Riders have praised the responsive staff for guiding the best timing and route suggestions, especially as the day moves into late afternoon, when the golden light turns everything into a postcard scene.

Stops Worth Noting

• Spanish Bay: An ideal spot for a break, where you can enjoy sea breeze and perhaps a picnic or quick snack. Many riders comment on how peaceful and beautiful this stretch is.
• Point Joe and the 18th Hole: Perfect spots to snap photos of the coastline, with some riders noting that catching the sunset here creates unforgettable memories.
• Carmel and Point Lobos: You can choose to pedal further into charming Carmel, with its boutique shops and cafes, or push on to explore the rugged beauty of Point Lobos.

Lunch and Extra Time

One of the biggest perks is the ability to customize your schedule. The responsive staff can recommend the best route and timing for a relaxed lunch in Carmel or a longer ride along the coast. The remote-return option allows you to keep your bike until 30 minutes after sunset, making it easy to chase the golden hour without feeling rushed.

Battery and Equipment

The complimentary shop-to-shop battery swaps are a real highlight—if your battery runs low, just stop by the shop, swap for a fresh one, and continue riding. Helmets, locks, and cargo options (including trailers and toddler seats) are included, making this a family-friendly experience. Riders have appreciated the family gear, noting how it made the day smoother and more enjoyable.

The Experience and Value

With a cost of $75 per person, this tour offers great value considering the scope and flexibility. The inclusion of high-quality e-bikes, safety gear, maps, and thoughtful route suggestions makes it a comprehensive package. Many reviews highlight the responsive staff and how they make it easy for even first-timers to enjoy the ride.

Why This Tour Matters

This isn’t just about riding bikes; it’s about creating a personalized, scenic adventure that fits your interests and pace. The ability to linger for sunset photos or extend your ride into Carmel or Point Lobos makes it feel less like a tour and more like a day you control.

The full-day duration is perfect for those wanting to avoid busy tour groups or crowded buses. Instead, you get a more immersive experience, with plenty of stops and the freedom to explore without rushing.

Additional Information

• The tour confirmation arrives immediately upon booking.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals.
• Children under 12 can ride on cargo bikes with a parent, making it family-friendly.
• Children under 1 year are not allowed, per California law.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.
• Weather considerations are important; if poor weather cancels the ride, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy exploring on two wheels and want the flexibility to shape their day. It suits families with children over 12, solo adventurers, and groups looking for an authentic coastal experience away from the crowds. If you appreciate scenic views, easy-paced rides, and personalized routes, this tour provides a memorable way to discover the Monterey Peninsula’s highlights.

It’s less suited for those seeking a fixed, guided tour with a strict schedule or visitors with mobility issues that prevent comfortable riding on e-bikes. Also, if you’re planning to chase sunset or want an unstructured, casual afternoon, the remote-return option ensures you can savor the moment without feeling rushed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I choose my own route?
While the tour offers suggested routes and professional guidance, the flexible nature of the e-bike rental allows you to customize your ride within the area, especially with staff suggestions.

What kind of bikes are available?
There are over 50 e-bike models to match different rider preferences, including cargo bikes, toddler seats, and trailers for families.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, children under 12 can ride on cargo bikes with a parent. Children under 1 year are not allowed, as per California law.

How long can I keep the bike?
You can keep your bike until 30 minutes after sunset, thanks to the remote-return option, perfect for chasing the golden hour.

What if I’m not comfortable riding in traffic?
The starting point and route are planned for coastal scenic views, with staff guiding you and offering safety advice to help beginners and experienced riders alike.

Is the price worth it?
Considering bike, safety gear, battery swaps, and flexible timing, many find this to be a good value for a full day of scenic exploration.

What happens if the weather isn’t good?
If poor weather cancels the ride, you’ll either be offered an alternative date or a full refund, ensuring peace of mind.

This full-day e-bike adventure along Monterey’s famed coastline offers an excellent way to see the area without the constraints of traditional tours. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, enjoy spectacular views, and chase sunsets, it appeals most to those who love active outdoor experiences and authentic, unhurried sightseeing. The included amenities, flexible schedule, and responsive staff make it a smart choice for families, solo travelers, and groups alike.

Whether you’re looking to tick off iconic sights like Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay or simply enjoy a relaxing coastal day, this tour can turn a regular sightseeing trip into a personalized, memorable journey along California’s legendary shoreline.