Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental

Exploring California’s coast by bike often feels like the best way to take in the sweeping vistas, abundant wildlife, and iconic sights. The Monterey and 17 Mile Drive half-day electric bike tour offers just that—an engaging, eye-opening way to see some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the United States. While we haven’t personally pedaled along this route, reviews and detailed descriptions reveal plenty about what you can expect, and it’s clear this experience can be quite special.

Two things we love about this tour are its powerful e-bikes that make covering the route’s hills and long stretches manageable, and the variety of stops that allow you to take in wildlife, iconic landmarks, and local food scenes. A potential consideration is that some parts of the route involve sharing narrow or busy roads with traffic—something to keep in mind if your bike skills are still developing. This tour suits travelers who enjoy active sightseeing, appreciate scenic coastal views, and want to weave some local flavor into their day.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: Expect breathtaking vistas from Pebble Beach to Carmel.
• Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to see sea otters, seals, and sea lions enrich the experience.
• Accessible Adventure: Electric bikes make covering hilly terrain easier, suitable for many fitness levels.
• Photogenic Stops: Iconic sites like the Lone Cypress and Bird Rock offer photo opportunities.
• Flexible Options: You can choose to return the same way or explore further into Carmel.
• Authentic Local Flavor: Explore food scenes and visit local landmarks along the coast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: What This Tour Offers

If you’re dreaming of coastlines that seem to go on forever, this half-day electric bike tour in Monterey promises a memorable way to experience it all. From the moment you pick up your e-bike, you’re set for a journey that combines spectacular scenery, wildlife encounters, and cultural stops—all with the ease of electric pedal assist.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the power of the e-bike means you won’t be exhausted climbing hills or covering long distances. Second, the route takes in some of the most photographed sights on California’s coast, like the famed Lone Cypress and the Bird Rock sea lions. However, a word of caution: the route includes stretches along Ocean View Boulevard shared with cars, which may be unsettling for less experienced cyclists. This tour is best suited for those comfortable riding bikes and eager for an active, scenic adventure.

What to Expect on This E-Bike Journey

Starting Point and Safety Briefing

The adventure begins at a designated meeting point (which varies based on your booking). After a quick safety briefing, you’re fitted with a helmet and handlebar bag, and your powerful e-bike is ready to go. The bikes are designed to accommodate different riders comfortably, with locks available if you want to secure your bike at stops.

Ascending to 17 Mile Drive

The first leg involves climbing the hill to reach 17 Mile Drive, a scenic route renowned for its vistas, golf courses, and mansions. The electric assist makes this climb surprisingly easy, even for those who might worry about hill climbing. As you turn onto Pebble Beach, the views immediately open up—crashing waves, rocky outcrops, and the iconic Spanish Bay greet you.

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Exploring Pebble Beach and Bird Rock

From here, you’ll follow a bike-friendly path parallel to the ocean, passing golf courses and deer in the yards—a surprisingly common sight, as some reviews mention. You’ll stop at Bird Rock, where sea lions splash and sunbathe—a classic Monterey spectacle. Public restrooms are available here, making it convenient to take a breather.

Iconic Landmarks and Wildlife Encounters

Next, your ride takes you past Restless Sea, China Rock, and the Pescadero Point Ghost Trees. These spots offer ideal photo opportunities, especially the Lone Cypress, perched dramatically on its rocky outcrop. Reviews highlight the stunning views here, with Emmanuel from France noting “super temps et vues magnifiques” (great weather and beautiful views).

You will also stop at Fanshell Beach Overlook and Cypress Point Lookout—where you might see sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions swimming or basking—an experience appreciated by many who love wildlife photography.

The Mansions and Coastal Scenery

As you approach the gorgeous mansions of Pebble Beach, the scenery becomes even more luxurious. This stretch features some of the most expensive homes in the area, along with scenic coves and rocky shores. The Lone Cypress remains a highlight, its solitary silhouette standing firm against the crashing waves.

Optional Stop at Pebble Beach Lodge

If you’re craving a break, the Pebble Beach Lodge offers food, restrooms, and shopping. Many find it a perfect spot to relax before deciding whether to head back the way you came or continue toward Carmel. The tour is flexible, allowing you to tailor your experience based on your interests and energy levels.

Extending to Carmel or Heading Back

For those with extra time or energy, continuing to Carmel-by-the-Sea is an option. The route from Pebble Beach to Carmel is scenic and filled with cottages and boutique shops, giving a charming end to your ride. Otherwise, you can retrace your route, enjoying the views from a different perspective.

The Experience: Balancing Value and Authenticity

The Ride and Its Challenges

While the electric bikes make this route accessible and manageable, some parts of the ride involve sharing the Ocean View Boulevard with cars, which can be a bit nerve-wracking for some. The bikes are governed to 20 mph (32 kph), but most riders won’t hit top speed, especially with traffic slowing things down. The wide lanes and scenic views help ease any discomfort, but a rider’s comfort level is important.

The Stops and Sightseeing

Each stop is well-chosen to highlight coastal beauty and wildlife. The sea otters, seals, and sea lions are crowd favorites, with reviews confirming sightings at Bird Rock and Fanshell Beach. The Lone Cypress, with its iconic location, is almost always photographed, and many reviewers remark on how picturesque the scenery is—whether under bright sunshine or cloudy skies.

Food, Restrooms, and Flexibility

Having access to restrooms and food at Pebble Beach Lodge is a welcome perk, especially on a four-hour tour. The flexibility to extend your ride into Carmel or return to the start adds value for travelers wanting a more comprehensive experience.

Cost and Value

At $55 per person, this tour is quite reasonable, considering the included equipment, guided safety briefing, and access to prime coastal sights. The reviews affirm that the value exceeds expectations, especially for those who enjoy active sightseeing.

The Bottom Line on Reviews

Many reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the spectacular views. One reviewer from France described it as “super temps et vues magnifiques” (great weather and beautiful views), emphasizing how enjoyable the day was. Others mention the challenge of busy roads, but overall, the consensus is that this is a memorable way to see Monterey’s coast.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who appreciate scenic landscapes and wildlife. If you’re comfortable riding a bike and enjoy a bit of adventure, the electric assist makes the route accessible and fun. It suits those who want to see iconic sights without the hassle of driving, and love capturing photographs of stunning coastlines.

However, if you’re not comfortable cycling or are sensitive to traffic, you might find some portions less enjoyable. The tour is also ideal for people wanting a flexible, half-day outing with options to extend into Carmel or relax at the lodge.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Is Worth It

The Monterey and 17 Mile Drive half-day electric bike tour offers a fantastic way to experience California’s famous coast—on your own terms and at your own pace. You’ll enjoy spectacular views, opportunities to spot wildlife, and the thrill of biking along scenic routes without the fatigue of a traditional ride. Its inclusion of stops at iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress and Bird Rock makes it photo-worthy and memorable.

For travelers seeking an active, authentic experience that balances adventure with comfort, this tour hits the mark. Considering the reviews and features, it’s a worthwhile choice for those who enjoy the outdoors, good scenery, and a bit of local flavor. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers eager to explore Monterey’s coast with knowledgeable guides and scenic stops along the way.

FAQ

Do I need to have cycling experience to participate?
While specific skill requirements aren’t detailed, the use of electric bikes makes covering the route easier, so even casual riders can enjoy it. Comfort riding a bike is recommended.

Are the bikes suitable for all heights and weights?
Bikes are designed for most riders but are not suitable for people under 4 ft 8 in (145 cm) or over 300 lbs (136 kg). Handlebar bags and locks are available if needed.

What happens if it rains?
Light rain is optional; you can still participate or cancel for a full refund. Heavy rain forecasted (more than 1 cm in 4 hours) will result in rescheduling or a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for riders comfortable on bikes; children under 4 ft 8 in might find it challenging. No specific mention of age restrictions is provided.

Can I extend my ride into Carmel?
Yes, the route allows for continuation into Carmel to explore its charming cottages and coastline, based on your energy and interest.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the electric bike, helmet, handlebar bag, safety briefing, and a map.

Are there additional costs?
Extra batteries, longer riding time, gloves, food, or drinks are not included and may incur extra fees.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately four hours, with options to modify based on your preferences.

Is there a guide?
The experience is hosted in English, with a host or greeter providing guidance and safety instructions.

In summary, this electric bike tour through Monterey and along 17 Mile Drive offers a lively, accessible, and scenic way to experience California’s coast. Its combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and charming stops makes it a worthwhile choice for active travelers seeking an authentic coastal adventure.

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