San Francisco: Private Monterey Aquarium 17 Mile Carmel

If you’re looking for a way to experience California’s stunning coastline without the hassle of planning every detail, this private tour offers a carefully curated day exploring some of the region’s most iconic sights. Offered by A Taste of SF Tours, Inc, this 11-hour journey promises personalized attention, comfortable transportation, and the chance to see everything from world-famous aquariums to the rugged beauty of Pebble Beach.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are its flexibility—since it’s private, you can customize parts of the itinerary and enjoy a more intimate experience—and the value of seeing multiple highlights in one day. From scenic drives to charming towns, you get a rich taste of what makes California’s coast so special.

A possible consideration is the long driving time—about 2.5 to 3 hours each way—which might be tiring for some. However, the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and the flexibility to customize stops can help make the journey enjoyable rather than exhausting.

This experience suits travelers who love scenic drives, cultural landmarks, and authentic small-town charm. It’s especially perfect if you prefer avoiding large tour groups and want to indulge in a more personalized, flexible day of exploration.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: The tour is tailored for groups of up to 6, offering flexibility and personalized attention.
• Includes major highlights: Monterey, Fisherman’s Wharf, Cannery Row, 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, Carmel.
• Scenic coastal drive: Pass by famous sights like the Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay Beach, with several stops for photos and sightseeing.
• Cultural and natural beauty: Enjoy the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s vast marine displays and explore Carmel’s art galleries and shops.
• Comfortable transportation: Travel in a luxury air-conditioned vehicle with bottled water provided.
• Educational and entertaining: Your guide can tailor the experience and share interesting facts about each stop.

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Starting Out: From San Francisco to Monterey

The day begins with a hotel pickup — or a designated meeting point — in San Francisco, with the option to be picked up at your residence. From there, you’ll settle into a luxury, air-conditioned vehicle. Expect a 2.5 to 3-hour drive along the scenic coastal route, which offers panoramic views and a chance for commentary from your guide.

A highlight for many is the opportunity to pass by the headquarters of tech giants like Oracle, Facebook, Google, and Apple—an intriguing reminder of California’s innovation hub. While the drive is long, the comfortable vehicle and the chance to chat or relax make it manageable.

Monterey: The Coastal Gem

Once in Monterey, you’ll have around 2-3 hours to explore. The city is renowned for its historic Fisherman’s Wharf—a lively hub with seafood restaurants, shops, and galleries. It’s a great place to soak up the local atmosphere, watch boats come and go, or grab a coffee.

A visit to the Monterey Bay Aquarium is a must. It’s one of the largest aquariums in the world, housing over 600 species and 80,000 plants and animals across more than 200 exhibits. The aquarium is famous for its sea tunnel, large jellyfish tanks illuminated in ultramarine, and the chance to see sea otters, sharks, and colorful reef fish. If luck is on your side, you might even spot a school of dolphins or a passing whale—adding an element of excitement to your visit.

The aquarium’s terraces also offer marvelous views of the bay, making it an ideal spot for photos and peaceful contemplation. Reviews note that visitors find the exhibits engaging and the setting beautiful, making the entrance fee well worth it for the experience.

Scenic 17-Mile Drive: Pebble Beach and Beyond

After the aquarium, your guide will take you on the famous 17-Mile Drive, widely regarded as one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world. Along this stretch, you’ll encounter Lone Cypress, one of the most photographed trees globally, and drive past the golf courses of Pebble Beach—“the Golf Capital of the World.”

Multiple stops are planned at key vistas such as Spanish Bay Beach, Stillwater Cove, and the cypress forest, which seem to stand silently guarding the Pacific. The tour also makes time to appreciate stunning mansions, deer wandering across golf courses, and the rugged beauty of the coastline. Your guide is usually happy to share interesting facts about each location, turning a simple drive into a mini history and geography lesson.

Carmel-by-the-Sea: Artistic Charm and Coastal Elegance

Next, the tour makes its way to Carmel, a town renowned for its art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. The town’s charm lies in its walkable streets, scenic beaches, and the historic Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo. You’ll have about an hour here to stroll, shop, or simply soak in the atmosphere.

Many reviews highlight Carmel’s marvelous beaches and small-town feel, which contrast nicely with the grandeur of the coastline. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed lunch or a chance to pick up a unique souvenir.

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Returning to San Francisco

After soaking up Carmel’s unique ambiance, you’ll head back to San Francisco, completing your 11-hour adventure. The return journey is equally scenic, and the comfort of your vehicle makes the drive less taxing.

Pricing and Value

At $1,299 for a private group up to six people, this tour offers a personalized experience with the flexibility to tailor stops and destinations. While it might seem steep compared to larger group tours, the value lies in the comfort, customization, and exclusive access to sights. You won’t be part of a large crowd; instead, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed, intimate exploration.

Additional costs like museum entries or meals are not included, but the tour guide can advise on options. The included amenities—hotel pickup and bottled water—add to the ease of the day.

Final Thoughts

This private tour from San Francisco to Monterey and Carmel offers a well-rounded day of scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and personal touches. It’s ideal for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences, rather than a rushed or cookie-cutter group tour.

The highlight for many will be the scenery—the stunning views along 17-Mile Drive and Carmel’s inviting streets—paired with the chance to visit world-class attractions like the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The tour strikes a good balance between sightseeing and leisure, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a luxurious yet authentic California coast experience.

If you’re a curious traveler eager to explore without the hassle of navigation and logistics, this private, carefully curated adventure will serve you well. It’s especially suited for small groups or families who appreciate comfort and personal attention, making your day along California’s coast both memorable and meaningful.

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and stops.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and you should confirm your pickup location in advance.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Since it is a private tour, the itinerary can be tailored to your preferences; simply discuss your interests with the guide.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers guided transportation in a luxury vehicle, bottled water, and hotel pickup/drop-off.

Are entry fees included?
No, entry fees to attractions like the Monterey Aquarium or Mission in Carmel are not included.

Is there flexibility in departure times?
Yes, check the tour availability to see the starting times, and contact the provider to confirm your preferred schedule.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
The tour’s comfort and flexibility make it suitable for most ages, but consider the long driving hours for very young children or elderly travelers.

What languages are available for guides?
Guides speak English, Russian, and Spanish, offering options for diverse travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby