3 Amazing Wine Tours In Monterey and Carmel

Exploring Monterey and Carmel’s wine scene offers much more than just sipping wine. This region’s warm climate and fertile soils produce award-winning wines, especially reds from Carmel Valley and whites from the Monterey coast. With numerous vineyards and tasting rooms, it’s easy to get overwhelmed, so we’ve curated this list of the best wine tours based on reviews, value, and unique experiences. From intimate walking tours hosted by local sommeliers to quirky vintage VW bus excursions, these options showcase the diversity of what the area offers.

Our picks highlight tours that combine excellent wines, engaging guides, and memorable scenery. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll through Carmel’s charming streets with expert commentary (Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea) or a fun ride in a vintage VW bus sampling wines across Carmel and Monterey (Wine Tasting Tours in a Vintage VW Bus), you’ll find something that fits your style and budget. For those wanting a more comprehensive experience, the Carmel Valley Wine Tour’s Premium Package combines tastings at three wineries with lunch and scenic views.

In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, what makes them special, and practical insights to help you choose the best fit for your trip.

1. Wine Tasting and Walking Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea

This small-group wine-tasting and walking tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea is perfect for those who want to combine educational wine samples with a stroll through this picturesque town. For about $159 per person, you’ll spend around three hours exploring Carmel’s best local varieties, all guided by knowledgeable sommeliers. The tour emphasizes off-the-beaten-path spots many travelers miss, giving you a real taste of Carmel’s hidden gems.

What sets this experience apart is the focus on local wines and insider recommendations. Your guide, Toby, receives rave reviews for his passion and deep knowledge—one reviewer called him “a jewel for the town,” and guests appreciated how he shared both wine insights and Carmel’s history. The tour includes visits to three tasting rooms, with plenty of time for questions, making it ideal for both wine novices and enthusiasts.

After tastings, the walk around Carmel’s charming streets reveals colorful cottages, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Your guide happily offers suggestions for local restaurants, bars, and shopping, rounding out a well-balanced experience. The tour’s small-group format ensures a relaxed, personal vibe.

Bottom Line: This tour offers a perfect blend of wine education, Carmel discovery, and local charm. It’s ideal if you prefer a more intimate experience combined with walking and conversation.

2. Wine Tasting Tours in a Vintage VW Bus

For those who want a fun, relaxed way to taste wines while enjoying the scenery, the VW bus wine tour is a standout. At $139 per person, this 4.5-hour tour takes you in a classic 1970 VW bus from Carmel to Monterey, stopping at three key locations. Your journey begins in Carmel, where you’ll sample wines from renowned local wineries amid the town’s fairy-tale cottages.

The tour then drives along Carmel Valley Road to visit a winery known for its award-winning reds. The final stop is historic Monterey, where you’ll experience a tasting room in the lively downtown area. What makes this tour special is the informal, lively vibe, combined with the chance to mingle with fellow wine lovers and learn about the vineyards from a friendly guide, Steve. Reviewers mention how the van adds a “cool” factor and that the guide’s knowledge made the experience memorable.

Guests also enjoy the inclusion of a charcuterie tray during tastings, which complements the wines perfectly. The tour’s relaxed pace allows plenty of time to converse and enjoy the scenery, making it a favorite for groups seeking a casual, engaging day.

Bottom Line: This tour is best suited for those who enjoy quirky transportation and a social atmosphere, with plenty of time to appreciate Carmel’s charm and the award-winning wines of Carmel Valley.

3. Carmel Valley Wine Tour’s Premium Package

For travelers seeking a comprehensive and leisurely wine experience, the Carmel Valley Wine Tour’s Premium Package offers a well-rounded day. Priced at $212 per person for about 5 hours, it combines visits to three distinguished wineries, lunch, and scenic views. The tour departs from Monterey in a vintage trolley or high-top van, making the journey itself part of the experience.

Highlights include tastings at Bernardus Winery, known for its excellent wines and attentive staff, and Rombi Carmel Valley Vineyard, which specializes in finely crafted reds from small production. The third stop, Boekenoogen Winery, offers a chance to sample Pinots and Chardonnays in a relaxed setting. The inclusion of a bottle of wine and lunch at a local restaurant adds value, making this a truly immersive experience.

Reviewers praise the tour guide, Gary, for his helpfulness and insider knowledge, noting that the experience feels personalized and educational. The scenic drive through Carmel Valley offers sweeping views, and the opportunity to meet winemakers adds authenticity.

Bottom Line: If you prefer a deliberate, luxury experience with tastings, lunch, and scenic views, this premium tour delivers excellent value and a deeper connection with the wines and the landscape.

How to Choose the Right Wine Tour

Choosing between these options depends on what you’re after. The Walking and Wine Tasting Tour of Carmel-by-the-Sea is perfect for those wanting a more intimate, educational experience combined with exploring Carmel’s streets. The Vintage VW bus tour is ideal for travelers looking for fun, casual transportation and a relaxed vibe. Meanwhile, the Premium Carmel Valley Wine Tour suits those seeking a full, leisurely day with scenic drives, tastings at top wineries, and lunch.

Consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer walking or riding. Also, think about your interest in small-group intimacy versus a more relaxed, social atmosphere. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and experience.

Final Thoughts

Monterey and Carmel offer a diverse array of wine touring options that cater to different tastes and interests. For a personalized and educational experience, the Carmel-by-the-Sea walking tour is hard to beat. If you’re after something more playful and relaxed, the VW bus tour adds a layer of fun to wine tasting. And for those looking for a full-day, scenic, and indulgent experience, the Carmel Valley Premium Package provides a luxurious taste of the region.

No matter which tour you choose, booking early helps ensure you get the date and experience you want. These tours promise more than just wine—they offer a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery, meet local winemakers, and learn about the region’s rich vinicultural traditions. Cheers to a memorable wine adventure in Monterey and Carmel.