Carmel Tour in The Heavenly 17 Mile Drive

Introduction

Looking to experience one of California’s most scenic drives without the hassle of navigating yourself? This Carmel Tour along the Heavenly 17-Mile Drive offers a private, flexible adventure that puts you in the driver’s seat—or instead, allows you to relax and enjoy the ride with a knowledgeable guide. Priced at just $30 per group (up to five people), it’s a surprisingly affordable way to soak in some of the most iconic coastal views near Monterey and Carmel. With pickup offered, this tour is designed to be convenient, personalized, and packed with photo-worthy moments.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with insightful commentary from a local guide, Bill Devoe, who knows all the best spots and stories. The ability to control your stops via the Pintours app, pausing or skipping as you wish, makes it feel more like a custom adventure than a cookie-cutter tour. That said, the tour’s duration—roughly 2 to 3 hours—means it’s perfect for a quick, yet deeply memorable glimpse of the coast. If you’re after privacy, flexibility, and a focus on the most breathtaking viewpoints, this tour will suit you well.

A possible consideration is that the tour doesn’t include admission tickets for the drives or golf courses, so expect some additional costs if you want to go inside certain areas. It’s best suited for travelers who love scenic drives, nature, and local insider knowledge. Families, couples, or groups of friends who prefer a tailored experience will find this especially appealing.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with control over stops and timing
• Expert commentary from a local guide, Bill Devoe, sharing hidden insights
• Affordable price point at just $30 for a group of up to five people
• Stunning coastal views and iconic locations like Pebble Beach and Cypress Point
• Flexible app control for pausing, skipping, or exploring at your own pace
• Ideal for nature lovers, golf enthusiasts, and scenic drive fans

Exploring the Itinerary: What to Expect on the Carmel Tour in The Heavenly 17 Mile Drive

Starting Point: Highway 1 Gate

Your journey begins at the Highway 1 Gate on 17 Mile Drive, easily accessible and a perfect starting point. From here, you’ll be set for a carefully curated route along one of the most photographed stretches of California coastline.

Stop 1: 17-Mile Drive

The first and most iconic part of the tour involves the legendary 17-Mile Drive itself. With 22 stops, you’ll get a chance to marvel at waves crashing against rugged cliffs, salt air filling your lungs, and panoramic views that seem almost unreal in their beauty. The drive is free of admission charges, but expect to enjoy some of the most breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, rocky outcroppings, and lush golf courses.

We loved the way the tour is tailored to your pace—thanks to the Pintours app, you can pause and linger at the stops that captivate you. Many visitors highlighted the stunning views as the highlight, with one reviewer calling it a “beautiful” experience that is “really a gem.”

Stop 2: Poppy Hills Golf Course

Nestled in the Del Monte Forest, Poppy Hills Golf Course is known for its striking natural beauty. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the chance to see a world-class course as it sits amid towering pines and sweeping fairways. The 20-minute stop allows time for photos and a quick look at the course, with admission included—perfect for golf fans or those who just want to see what all the fuss is about.

Stop 3: Spyglass Hill Golf Course

Next, you’ll visit Spyglass Hill Golf Course, often ranked among the most scenic in the world. The lush greens, sleek fairways, and views so spectacular that they seem almost surreal make it a highlight. The 20-minute stop offers plenty of opportunities to snap photos or just take in the beauty. As one reviewer noted, even non-golfers find themselves captivated by the location’s charm.

Stop 4: Cypress Point Lookout

Prepare to be wowed at Cypress Point Lookout. Dramatic cliffs, sweeping ocean vistas, and perhaps a few seals or sea lions lounging below—this spot has it all. The 20-minute stop provides ample time for photos and soaking in the scenery. The view here is often described as “to die for,” and many guests appreciate having a local guide to point out details they’d miss on their own.

Stop 5: Pescadero Point

For those who love discovering hidden gems, Pescadero Point is a true highlight. Known for its breathtaking coastal views and rocky shoreline, it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers. The 20-minute stop is perfect for a quick walk and photo session, with reviews emphasizing its “wow” factor and the feeling of being somewhere truly special.

Stop 6: Pebble Beach

The tour concludes at the famous Pebble Beach Golf Links, a place that has drawn celebrities and golf legends for over a century. While the 25-minute stop doesn’t include admission, it’s a chance to marvel at the luxury and history of this world-renowned course. Many visitors appreciate how this iconic location caps off their scenic journey with a sense of grandeur and timeless beauty.

Transportation, Timing, and Flexibility

The entire tour lasts approximately 2 to 3 hours, making it a perfect addition to a day of exploring Monterey and Carmel. The use of a private vehicle and a local guide means you’ll avoid the stress of driving yourself if you opt for the driver option—something highly recommended based on reviews. The group size of up to five ensures a personal, intimate experience, unlike larger bus tours.

Timing is flexible, especially with the Pintours app, which allows you to pause and explore at your leisure. The pickup service adds to the convenience, saving you from navigating unfamiliar roads. Since the tour is completely private, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a tailored experience without the crowds.

Cost and Value

At just $30 per group, this tour offers remarkable value, especially considering the personalized attention and insider knowledge. Additional costs for admission tickets to golf courses or scenic spots are not included, but many locations are free to enjoy from the outside or for photos.

Review Insights

Two reviews specifically highlight the value of having a driver—not only does this free you from the stress of driving, but it also allows you to relax, take photos, and fully absorb the scenery. One reviewer called it “much better than driving yourself,” emphasizing how the guide’s commentary made the experience richer.

The Sum Up

This Carmel Tour along the Heavenly 17-Mile Drive offers an affordable, flexible way to enjoy one of California’s most stunning coastal routes. The ability to control your stops, combined with expert local insight, makes it a standout choice for those who want a personalized experience without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a golf fan, a lover of dramatic vistas, or simply seeking a peaceful escape along the coast, this tour delivers.

The attention to detail, from the scenic stops to the modern app controls, ensures that you’ll get a memorable, hassle-free experience. With most reviews praising the views and the tour’s relaxed pace, it’s clear that this is an experience worth considering for your trip to Monterey and Carmel.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate flexibility, scenery, and insider knowledge. If you want to avoid crowded bus tours and instead enjoy a private, curated journey with stunning vistas as your backdrop, this Carmel tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, the tour is designed for groups of up to five people, making it intimate and customizable.

Can I choose which stops to visit?
Absolutely. The Pintours app allows you to pause, skip stops you’re not interested in, and spend more time where you love the views.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a private vehicle is included, making the experience comfortable and stress-free, especially if you opt for the driver option.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts between 2 and 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each stop.

Are admission tickets included?
Admission for golf courses is included for Poppy Hills and Spyglass Hill. Other locations, like Pebble Beach, do not require tickets for exterior viewing.

Can I book this tour last minute?
While bookings are usually made well in advance—about 20 days on average—it’s best to reserve early to secure your preferred date and time.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of private, flexible scheduling, expert local commentary, and breathtaking coastal views makes it a memorable and worthwhile experience for anyone visiting the Monterey and Carmel area.