San Diego: Point Loma Electric GoCar Rental Tour

Traveling through San Diego’s diverse neighborhoods and scenic coastal spots in a quirky, eco-friendly vehicle sounds like a fun way to see the city — and that’s exactly what this Point Loma Electric GoCar Tour offers. For about $222 per group (up to 2 people), you get to spend 3 hours exploring some of San Diego’s most iconic sights, guided by a storytelling GPS that makes the experience both engaging and informative.

What we love about this tour is the unique combination of open-air driving and narrative guidance — it’s like having a knowledgeable friend show you around, without the awkward small talk. Plus, the electric vehicle means you can enjoy the sights in near silence, which enhances the sense of being truly immersed in the landscape.

A potential consideration? The tour’s duration and route mean you’ll want to be ready for a fairly brisk pace, with no time to linger too long at each stop. Also, since the car seats only two, it’s ideal for couples or close friends. If you’re seeking a flexible, intimate way to explore San Diego’s coastal and cultural areas, this could very well be your perfect adventure.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly fun: The electric GoCar offers a quiet, emissions-free ride through San Diego’s scenic spots.
• Guided narration: The GPS-based storytelling ensures you won’t miss key points, making it informative without constant manual navigation.
• Flexible itinerary: Covering Old Town, Shelter Island, Point Loma, Sunset Cliffs, and Ocean Beach, the route hits many popular spots.
• Practical details: The tour lasts 3 hours, with options to extend, and is suitable for private groups of two.
• Cost and value: While $222 might seem high, it includes the vehicle, GPS, safety briefing, and taxes — a solid value for a personalized experience.
• Limited capacity: The car accommodates only two, making it more intimate but less flexible for groups.

Exploring the San Diego in a GoCar — What You Can Expect

A Unique Way to See the City

This tour promises a distinctive experience: riding in the world’s first storytelling car, guided by a GPS that automatically delivers commentary tailored to your location. We found that this feature allows you to absorb the history and sights without constantly checking a guidebook or smartphone. It’s especially helpful if you’re keen on a hands-free experience that combines sightseeing with light entertainment.

Starting Point and First Impressions

The adventure begins at Drivewize LLC on Mason Street, where you’ll meet your friendly guide and get a quick orientation. The safety briefing covers how to operate the GoCar — which, with a top speed of 75 miles per hour, is surprisingly zippy for city sightseeing. Reviews mention that the staff is clear and helpful, making even first-time drivers comfortable.

Old Town San Diego: A Cultural Snapshot

Your first stop is Old Town, often called the birthplace of California. Here, you’ll get a photo stop and a chance to soak in the blend of Mexican and Western culture. The narration covers local history and suggestions for shopping or grabbing a traditional snack. Many visitors appreciate the way the GoCar’s guidance brings the area’s stories to life, with some reviews noting that their driver, who went by Tom, was especially engaging and insightful about local quirks.

Shelter Island and Naval Base Point Loma

Cruising along Shelter Island, you’ll take in views of San Diego Bay — a highlight for many. This stop offers excellent photo opportunities, especially if you’re into maritime scenery. Passing by the Naval Base Point Loma, you’ll get a sense of the military presence in the area, with the narration offering contextual background. Reviewers often mention how this part of the tour provides a good mix of natural beauty and historical significance.

Fort Rosecrans Cemetery & Point Loma Tide Pools

Next up, the Fort Rosecrans Cemetery offers a chance for some reflective moments and photos. Visitors note that the serene landscape and ocean views here are stunning. The Point Loma Tide Pools are another highlight — a chance to visit one of the most interesting ecological zones, with opportunities for quick visits and photos. The narration enhances understanding of the area’s natural history, making it more meaningful than just a scenic stop.

Old Point Loma Lighthouse and Ecological Reserve

The Old Point Loma Lighthouse is a major draw, offering sweeping views of the Pacific and the city skyline. Many find the drive around this historic site captivating, with some reviewers mentioning how the narration helps visualize what it was like to operate such a lighthouse long ago. Nearby, the Ecological Reserve provides a peaceful stop with abundant wildlife and scenic vistas.

Sunset Cliffs and Ocean Beach

As the tour winds down, you’ll pass through Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. This is often called one of the most breathtaking spots for sunset viewing, and you’ll get a scenic drive along the cliffs, with the narration pointing out the best vantage points. The Ocean Beach stop rounds out the experience with a laid-back beach vibe and more photo ops. Reviewers appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to snap some memorable pictures.

Returning to Base

After about three hours of exploring, you’ll head back to your starting point. The flexibility to extend your rental on the same day, with additional charges, is a nice perk if you want more time at a favorite spot.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The most impressive feature of this experience is its combination of eco-conscious transportation and engaging storytelling. The silence of the electric motor allows you to focus on the sights and sounds around you, without engine noise or fumes. It’s a particularly good choice for travelers who want a personalized, intimate tour, as the vehicle seats only two.

Another aspect many reviews highlight is the ease of navigation. The GPS-guided narration means you can relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about getting lost or missing key points. Plus, the flexibility to extend your time on the day of the rental adds a layer of convenience.

The Itinerary and Stops

Each stop in the route is thoughtfully chosen to showcase different facets of San Diego: the historic charm of Old Town, the maritime beauty of Shelter Island, the historic military sites at Point Loma, and the natural beauty of Sunset Cliffs and Ocean Beach. This wide range ensures travelers get a well-rounded taste of the city, from cultural heritage to coastal scenery.

Practical Details and Considerations

The duration of three hours makes this a manageable half-day activity, perfect for fitting into a broader San Diego itinerary. The price of $222 per group covers the vehicle, GPS, and safety briefing, which many consider reasonable given the personalized nature of the experience.

Since the car seats only two, it’s ideal for couples or friends; larger groups will need to split into multiple cars or look for alternative options. Drivers must be 21 or older, and the vehicle must be returned before dusk, so planning your start time accordingly is advised. The tour is not suitable for children under 7 or pregnant women, primarily due to safety considerations in the vehicle.

Authenticity and Reviewer Insights

From reviews, it’s clear that the narration is well-paced and informative — some mention that the stories add a layer of connection that isn’t found in a typical self-guided drive. Guests also appreciate the friendly staff and the clean, well-maintained vehicles.

One reviewer pointed out that “the GoCar made the sightseeing feel more like a fun adventure than just another tour,” emphasizing the engaging nature of the ride. Another mentioned that a few stops could be rushed if you’re not quick with the photos, so prioritizing your favorite sites helps.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for couples or small groups seeking a fun, eco-friendly way to explore San Diego’s coastal and cultural highlights. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided narration but want the flexibility to explore at your own pace. It’s also an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want a rundown without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets.

However, if you’re traveling with young children, pregnant, or prefer a more relaxed, less vehicle-oriented experience, you might want to consider other options. The price point makes it a reasonable investment for a private, guided adventure, especially if you value storytelling and scenic exploration.

Final Thoughts

The San Diego Point Loma Electric GoCar Tour offers a unique blend of eco-conscious transportation, engaging narration, and scenic exploration. It’s a fantastic way to see some of San Diego’s most famous sights without the noise or fumes of traditional tours. The route is thoughtfully curated, giving travelers a well-rounded experience of the city’s natural beauty, history, and culture.

While it’s a bit on the pricier side, the personalized and flexible nature of the tour makes it worthwhile for those seeking an intimate adventure. The electric vehicle and GPS-guided storytelling elevate this from a typical sightseeing drive into a memorable, engaging journey.

If you’re a couple or a duo eager to explore San Diego with a sense of fun and discovery, this tour might just be your perfect match. It’s especially ideal for travelers who prioritize authentic, memorable experiences over cookie-cutter group tours.

FAQ

Can I extend the tour on the day of rental?
Yes, you can extend the rental on the same day, with additional time charged in 15-minute increments.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 7 years old are not suitable for this ride, and the vehicle’s design and safety considerations mean it’s best for adult travelers.

What should I bring?
A valid driver’s license is required to operate the GoCar.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, drivers must be 21 or older to rent and drive the vehicle.

Does the price include insurance?
Insurance is not included in the listed price, so you may want to check if your own coverage applies or consider additional options.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
The activity is listed as wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to confirm accessibility details directly with the provider.

Can I visit multiple sites in 3 hours?
Yes, the 3-hour tour covers numerous stops, but to enjoy each site thoroughly, you might want to prioritize your favorites.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at the same location: Drivewize LLC on Mason Street.

Is this experience available year-round?
Availability depends on the schedule, but you’ll need to return before dusk, so plan accordingly.

This electric GoCar tour offers a delightful way to see San Diego’s highlights with a personal touch, perfect for couples or small groups looking for an engaging and eco-friendly sightseeing option.