Driving the California Coast: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Active
2h - 2h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience a spectacular driving tour that follows Highway 1 to Big Sur, often called “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world.”
You’ll be greeted by views of the Santa Lucia Mountains rising abruptly from the Pacific Ocean, in contrast with the jagged rock cliffs and churning seas. This section of Highway 1 is considered one of the most scenic driving routes in the United States, if not the world. It’s filled with unblemished natural scenery and dotted with four state parks, hidden beaches, rocky coves and rolling hills.
On the tour, you’ll pass by the historic D.L. James House now owned by actor Brad Pitt, cross the iconic Bixby Bridge, pass by the prominent volcanic rock home of the Point Sur Light Station to the Big Sur River Inn and the famous Nepenthe Restaurant before we stop at the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
All stops, visits to state parks and subsequent hikes are optional and parking fees for state parks are not included in the price of this tour.
Available options
Driving the California Coast: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
What's included
VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
Lifetime access to this tour in English
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour passes by the Point Lobos Natural Reserve. If you want, you have the opportunity to visit the park although it isn't included in the tour.
2
The tour passes by the Carmel Highlands.
3
The tour takes you around Yankee Point Drive.
4
The tour takes you over the Malpaso Creek Bridge.
5
The tour takes you through Garrapata State Park.
6
The tour takes you over the Garrapata Creek Bridge.
7
The tour passes by Notley's Landing viewpoint.
8
The tour passes by Rocky Creek Bridge.
9
Stop 9
Pass by
The tour goes over Bixby Creek Bridge.
10
Stop 10
Pass by
The tour passes by Hurricane Point view.
11
Stop 11
Pass by
The tour passes by Point Sur.
12
The tour passes through Andrew Molera State Park.
13
Stop 13
Pass by
The tour passes by the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Sign.
14
Stop 14
Pass by
The tour passes over the Pfeiffer Canyon Bridge.
15
Stop 15
Pass by
The tour passes by the Nepenthe restaurant.
16
The tour passes by the Henry Miller Memorial Library.
17
The tour passes by Grimes Canyon.
18
The tour passes by Partington Cove.
19
Stop 19
Pass by
The tour ends at the McWay Waterfall Trailhead parking lot.
What's not included
Food and drink
Smartphone and headphones
Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.3
10 reviews
5★
6
4★
2
3★
1
2★
1
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Public transportation options are available nearby
Meeting point
Before arrival, please install the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. This is a self-guided audio tour that you can start, pause, or restart at any time and complete at your own pace. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
───
Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. VoiceMap has sent you an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
1. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
2. Create an account
3. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
4. Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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• You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
• This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
• When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
• Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Monterey & Carmel
Monterey and Carmel are coastal gems in California, renowned for their stunning natural beauty, rich marine life, and artistic heritage. This area offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxed coastal charm.
Top Attractions
Monterey Bay Aquarium
One of the most renowned aquariums in the world, featuring a wide array of marine life and educational exhibits.
Nature
2-4 hours
$54.95 for adults, $42.95 for children
Carmel-by-the-Sea
A picturesque town known for its fairytale-like cottages, art galleries, and beautiful beaches.
Cultural
Half day to full day
Free to explore
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
A stunning coastal reserve with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking ocean vistas.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Cannery Row
A historic waterfront district made famous by John Steinbeck's novel, featuring shops, restaurants, and museums.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore, attractions vary
17-Mile Drive
A scenic drive through Pebble Beach, offering stunning views of the coastline, golf courses, and natural landscapes.
Scenic
1-2 hours
$10.50 per vehicle
Must-Try Local Dishes
Abalone
A local delicacy, often served grilled or in cioppino, a seafood stew.
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan
Monterey Bay Sardines
Freshly caught and often served grilled or smoked.
Snack
Not vegetarian or vegan
Carmel Artisan Cheese
Locally made cheeses, often paired with wine and crackers.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
Kayaking
Beach lounging
Spas
Scenic drives
Art gallery visits
Museum tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Peak season offers warm weather and vibrant activities, but also larger crowds and higher prices. Ideal for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
15-22°C
59-72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Monterey and Carmel are generally safe destinations with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
Getting there
By air
- Monterey Regional Airport • 5 km from Monterey
- San Jose International Airport • 110 km from Monterey
By train
Monterey Amtrak Station
By bus
Monterey Bus Station, Carmel Bus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and reliable, but schedules may be limited in the evenings and on weekends.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Monterey
Carmel-by-the-Sea
Pacific Grove
Day trips
Big Sur
40 km south of Carmel • Full day
A stunning coastal area with dramatic cliffs, redwood forests, and scenic drive along Highway 1.
Santa Cruz
60 km north of Monterey • Full day
A vibrant beach town known for its boardwalk, surfing, and family-friendly attractions.
Salinas
30 km east of Monterey • Half day
A historic city known for its agricultural heritage and as the hometown of John Steinbeck.
Festivals
Monterey Jazz Festival • Mid-September
Carmel Art Festival • October
Pro tips
- Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Take a scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive for stunning views
- Try the famous clam chowder in sourdough bread bowls at Fisherman's Wharf
- Explore the art galleries and boutiques in Carmel-by-the-Sea
- Go whale watching in season (December to April) for an unforgettable experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
