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Carmel-by-the-Sea is a charming town famous for its art galleries, fairy-tale cottages, and stunning coastal scenery. But it’s also a fantastic destination for wine enthusiasts. The region offers a surprising variety of wine tours, whether you prefer intimate tastings in curated rooms or a fun, vintage adventure in a classic VW bus. We’ve carefully selected the best options based on reviews, ratings, and the unique experiences they offer. Expect experiences that combine local wine education, charming stops, and engaging guides—perfect for adding a memorable flavor to your trip.
In this guide, you’ll find two standout wine tours. One is a walking tour that dives into Carmel’s history and tastings at three handpicked venues, led by an expert sommelier. The other offers a scenic ride in a vintage VW bus through Monterey Peninsula’s vineyards, culminating with tastings at award-winning wineries. Whether you’re after a relaxed, educational experience or a playful vintage ride, these tours are well worth considering. For more details, check out their pages here and here.
1. Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea
This wine tasting and walking tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea stands out for its blend of scenic strolling and curated tastings at three carefully chosen tasting rooms, all led by a knowledgeable sommelier. The $159 per person fee covers a 3-hour experience that balances sightseeing with wine education. The tour is ideal if you want to explore the town’s hidden gems without feeling rushed, as it combines Carmel’s charming streets with insider stories about the town’s history and its wines.
What makes this tour special is the attention to detail—each tasting room is selected for its quality and local character. Guests rave about their guide, Toby, who shares fascinating Carmel history alongside insights into wine making. One reviewer noted, “Toby was very knowledgeable about Carmel history and the wines were excellent.” The tour is flexible enough for large groups or families with children, thanks to Toby’s accommodating approach. Expect to learn about wine styles, local vineyards, and the town’s hidden stories, all while enjoying thoughtfully curated tastings.
Bottom Line: If you love a relaxed, educational walk through Carmel with expert commentary and quality tastings, this tour hits the mark. It offers great value for an intimate experience with personalized attention.
$159 per person
2. Carmel Valley Village: Wine Tasting Tours in a 1970 VW bus
This vintage VW bus wine tour combines nostalgia with the wine tasting experience. For $139 per person, you get a 4.5-hour scenic ride in a well-preserved 1970 VW bus, exploring the scenic Carmel Valley, known for its award-winning wineries. The tour includes visits to several wineries, with tastings of wines that are grown, produced, and bottled near the California coast.
What sets this tour apart is the fun factor—riding in a classic VW bus instantly adds a sense of adventure. The driver is not only friendly but highly informative, making stops at wineries where you can taste a variety of wines in a relaxed, friendly setting. Guests mention the spectacular scenery along the way and the warm, welcoming atmosphere at each tasting venue. One review highlights, “The VW bus was in excellent condition and very clean, and the driver was very fun and informative.” The itinerary also includes a performance by a talented local musician, adding a musical touch to the day.
Bottom Line: If you appreciate vintage style, scenic drives, and a more social, laid-back vibe, this tour offers a memorable way to enjoy Carmel Valley’s wines. It’s perfect for those who want a fun, visually engaging experience.
$139 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer a more laid-back, educational tour or a lively vintage adventure. The walking tour is excellent for those who want a smaller, more personalized experience with historical context and wine education. The VW bus tour offers a playful, scenic journey, ideal for families or groups looking for a fun day with tastings thrown in.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons. Both tours are well-reviewed and popular, so securing your spot ahead of time ensures you won’t miss out. For a detailed look at each, visit Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea and Carmel Valley Village VW bus tour.
Final Thoughts
Both tours provide a distinctive way to explore Carmel’s wine scene. The walking tour is perfect if you enjoy a leisurely, educational experience with a personal touch, ideal for those interested in Carmel’s history and local wines. The VW bus tour offers a more playful, scenic journey that’s great for groups or anyone seeking a memorable vintage ride with tastings along the way.
For those on a tight schedule, the 3-hour walking tour offers a focused experience, while the 4.5-hour VW adventure suits travelers wanting a more relaxed and fun-filled day. Whatever your choice, these wine tours promise a deeper appreciation for Carmel’s rich wine culture, combined with delightful scenery and engaging guides. Remember to book early—these popular experiences fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. Cheers to discovering Carmel’s wine treasures—your taste buds will thank you.
