“Family Friendly” Scenic E-Bike Tour along 17 Mile Dr

Exploring California’s Coastline on a Family-Friendly E-Bike Tour along 17 Mile Drive

If you’re considering a leisurely way to soak in the breathtaking scenery of Monterey’s famed 17 Mile Drive, this guided eBike tour could be just what you need. Designed to be accessible for families and beginners, it offers a relaxed pace to enjoy spectacular views, iconic beaches, and film locations from the comfort of a pedal-assisted bicycle. We’ve reviewed this experience from the perspective of travelers who’ve loved its combination of scenic beauty, expert guides, and family-friendly vibe.

What we particularly appreciate about this tour is how it balances informative storytelling with easy riding, making it suitable for all ages. Plus, the inclusion of snacks, water, and safety gear adds a thoughtful touch. On the flip side, since the ride takes place on shared roads and bike lanes, it’s worth noting that some riders might find the traffic a bit busy, especially in peak season. This tour shines for families, casual cyclists, or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative, scenic outing along one of California’s most famous coastlines.

If you’re seeking a way to experience the beauty of the California coast without strenuous activity or you’re traveling with kids who might prefer a slower pace, this eBike tour is likely a good fit. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors wanting a guided overview of local highlights, especially if they’re interested in the filming locations of the HBO show “Big Little Lies.”

Key Points

• Scenic Route: Follow the famous 17 Mile Drive at a relaxed pace, with plenty of stunning viewpoints.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children 12+ riding solo, with options for tandem and cargo bikes.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides share insights about local scenery, history, and wildlife.
• All-Inclusive: E-bike rental, helmets, water, and snacks included for a hassle-free experience.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with options to reserve now and pay later.
• Size Matters: Small group size (up to 10) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Experience

For travelers looking to enjoy the iconic California coast without the hassle of driving or strenuous hiking, this family-friendly eBike tour along 17 Mile Drive offers a memorable alternative. The tour provides a gentle, guided ride that hits every major scenic spot and famous filming location featured in “Big Little Lies,” blending pop culture with natural beauty.

Two aspects really stand out: the relaxed pace makes it accessible to most fitness levels and ages, and the expert guides elevate the experience with stories and insights about the area’s unique landscapes. We love how the tour maximizes sightseeing with minimal effort—perfect for families, first-timers, or those simply wanting a scenic outing without the strain.

That said, a potential consideration is that the route follows roads shared with vehicles, albeit with a speed limit of 25 mph. This means riders should be comfortable with traffic and confident enough to handle the eBike. But for most, the safety precautions, briefings, and small group setting make it manageable.

This tour caters to those who value authentic scenery, guided knowledge, and a relaxed pace—making it ideal for families, older travelers, or anyone wanting a scenic overview of one of California’s most visually striking coastlines.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Highlights

Starting on Cannery Row near the Monterey Bay Aquarium, the tour smoothly transitions onto Oceanview Blvd through Marine Gardens Park, following a route that’s both scenic and accessible. The first major stop is at Bird Rock, where stunning ocean views and local wildlife sightings set the tone. Along the way, guides share engaging stories about the area’s ocean wildlife and landmarks, adding depth to what might otherwise be just a scenic ride.

The route includes about 16 miles round trip, lasting roughly three hours—perfect for a half-day outing. While this might seem like a long ride, the electric assist makes pedaling easy, even uphill sections. The slow, winding pace allows ample time for photos, breaks, and soaking in the scenery.

A notable feature is the opportunity to see all the famous filming locations from “Big Little Lies”, which fans of the series will appreciate. The tour also passes by beaches where many of the beach-running scenes were shot, giving a behind-the-scenes feel to the sightseeing.

Top sites include the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Lodge (although the faster-paced tour covers these spots more quickly), and the beautiful mansions that line the coastline. The guide will point out these landmarks and explain their significance, making the experience both scenic and educational.

What You Can Expect at Each Part of the Tour

Starting Point at Cannery Row:
The meeting spot is just behind the Monterey Bay Aquarium, a lively area full of local character. Bikes are lined up on the porch, ready for your adventure. The safety briefing and helmet distribution set the tone for a well-organized experience.

Heading along Oceanview Blvd:
This stretch offers sweeping views of the ocean, with stops at various viewpoints. The bike lanes are separated from traffic in many sections, providing some peace of mind. Guides take a relaxed approach, pedaling at a pace suitable for most riders.

Marine Gardens Park and Bird Rock:
These stops are perfect for wildlife spotting and photo opportunities. Guides will share insights about local ocean creatures and the history of the area, adding a storytelling element to your ride.

Pebble Beach and Famous Landmarks:
Though the tour is slow-paced, you’ll get a glimpse of Pebble Beach Golf Links and the luxurious mansions. If you opt for the faster “17 Mile Drive eBike Tour,” you might see more of the iconic sights like the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Lodge, but this more leisurely ride allows for better appreciation of the scenery and landmarks.

Return to Cannery Row:
After the ride, you’ll have gained a broader perspective of the coastline’s beauty and its Hollywood connections—all without breaking a sweat.

Authentic Feedback from Past Participants

One reviewer from Germany described the experience as “Super Fahrräder! Wir hatten einen tollen Tag!” indicating that the bikes are of good quality and the day was enjoyable. Another highlighted the motivation and experience of the guide, noting, “It was a great event with a highly motivated and experienced tour guide,” which speaks to the professionalism and enthusiasm of the team.

A U.S. traveler shared that the private, personalized experience made it memorable: “Turned out just me and my niece, so it was private and personalized. Taylor was a fabulous guide!” This suggests that even small groups or solo travelers can expect attentive service.

From past reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides and the stunning coastal views are the biggest draws. The bikes are described as “great,” and the overall impression is that the experience delivers excellent value for the price.

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Pricing and Value

At $79 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that includes guided commentary, eBike rental, helmets, water, and snacks. Considering the cost of individual bike rentals, guided tours, and the scenic scenery you’ll encounter, the price is reasonable—especially since it caters to beginners and families.

The three-hour duration strikes a good balance: enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The small group size (limited to 10) further enhances value by ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

For families with younger children or those unsure about bike riding, options like tandem or cargo bikes are available, making this accessible even for quite young kids (with some age and size restrictions).

Practicalities and Tips for Participants

What to bring: Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, snacks, and perhaps a camera to capture the views. The weather can change along the coast, so layering is advisable.

Age and riding skills: Riders should know how to ride a bike comfortably, but the eBike makes hills and long rides much easier. The recommended age for the electric bikes is 16, but younger children can ride tandem or on cargo bikes if they meet size requirements.

Traffic and safety: Since some riding occurs on shared roads with a 25 mph speed limit, it’s best if riders are confident and comfortable with traffic. The guides are experienced and will brief everyone thoroughly.

Cancellation and booking: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking now allows for flexibility with pay later options.

The Sum Up

This guided eBike tour along 17 Mile Drive offers a fantastic way to see one of California’s most beautiful coastlines without the physical strain of traditional biking. Its relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and inclusion of key film locations make it especially appealing to families, first-time visitors, and those who want a scenic overview with minimal hassle. The small group setting ensures a personalized experience, while the scenic stops provide plenty of photo opportunities and tranquil moments.

For travelers seeking a family-friendly adventure that combines stunning views, local stories, and iconic landmarks, this tour provides excellent value. It’s perfect for those wanting to enjoy the coast at a gentle pace and learn about the area’s natural and cultural highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

If you’re after a scenic, relaxed, and informative outing along the California coast, this eBike tour is a solid choice. It combines the fun of riding with the beauty of the coastline, making your visit memorable and enjoyable for everyone involved.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, children aged 12 and older can ride solo if they meet the size requirements. Children under 12 may need to ride tandem or on cargo bikes, with options available for toddler seats.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist? No, the eBike makes riding easier, and the tour is designed for beginners. The guides will brief everyone on safety and operation before starting.

What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended. Layers are advised because coastal weather can change quickly.

Is the ride safe with traffic nearby? The ride includes portions on shared roads with a 25 mph speed limit. The group is small, and guides provide safety instructions, making it manageable for confident riders.

How long is the tour? It’s approximately three hours, covering about 16 miles round trip, including stops for sightseeing and photos.

What’s included in the price? The fee covers guided commentary, eBike rental, helmets, water, and snacks.

Can I cancel or reschedule? Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour. You also have the option to reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility.

This guided eBike adventure along 17 Mile Drive offers an inviting, scenic, and family-friendly way to experience California’s coast. With friendly guides, stunning views, and a relaxed pace, it’s a memorable outing perfect for all ages.

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