Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between San Francisco & Monterey
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Smartphone Audio Driving Tour between San Francisco & Monterey

Active
(4 reviews)
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Connect your smartphone to your vehicle's stereo and listen to a tour guide while you drive between San Francisco & Monterey!

Follow the suggested route along the Pacific Coast Highway, one of the most scenic drives in the world! Start anywhere along the route between Monterey & San Francisco. Tour experience is the same in either direction.

Tour highlights include El Granada, Half Moon Bay, San Gregorio, Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, Shark Fin Cove & more. We'll point out must-see sights, state parks, and tourist attractions and give a historical overview of the area and its original inhabitants.

With no time constraints, enjoy the freedom to stop anywhere and explore. Tour guide commentary will play automatically as you drive. No data is used during the tour.

This audio guide will keep your group entertained and engaged! Many points of interest also have a fun multiple-choice trivia question about the sights.

Trust the platform with over 75 tours & 25,000+ happy customers.

Available options

B/W Monterey & San Francisco

What's included

No time constraints, take as long as you like to complete the tour
Only 1 tour booking needed per vehicle
Flexible dates - tour is yours to keep and enjoy anytime on Tripvia Tours app
No signal required or data used during tour
Good mobile or WiFi connection needed for the initial download

Detailed itinerary

1

Today, San Fran, as it’s colloquially known, stands as a hallmark of cultural diversity, technological innovation, and iconic landmarks.

2

We'll tell you about this notoriously steep and rocky coastal route, with its storied history, going back to the Ocean Shore Railroad's ambitious plans to connect San Francisco and Santa Cruz.

3

Montara, home to Montara State Beach, offers stunning views of cliffs that drop precipitously into the Pacific Ocean, creating a dramatic backdrop for all sorts of outdoor activities.

4

Moss Beach is particularly known a protected area where tide pools are rich with marine life like starfish and anemones.

5

An historic lighthouse that has been guiding mariners since 1875 and now serves as a ... we'll tell you what.

6

You’ll pass by the coastal town of El Granada, known for its unique concentric-circular street layout and hear about the Pillar Point breakwater and it's gigantic waves called.... we'll tell you all about them!

7

Hear about Half-Moon Bay's historic and quite "interesting" beginnings and it's a narrative of daring spirits and natural splendors that shape it today.

8

You'll hear about San Gregorio, a booming town in the 1850's, and San Gregorio State Beach, renowned for its cleanliness.

9

You'll see the California Coastal National Monument. But.. where??? I'm sure you're wondering. Well, we'll tell you!

10

You'll hear about Pescadero, Spanish for "Fishmonger," a small town dating back to the 19th century now a mix of farming, tourism and ranching.

11

Hear about how the Pescadero Marsh is vital habitat for a number of species, both migratory and native.

12

You'll get to hear from someone who played a significant role in the lighthouse's history.

13

As you cruise along scenic Highway 1, you'll hear about the stunning biodiversity and rich history of Año Nuevo State Park. The park’s main attraction is it’s .... we'll be sure to let you know.

14

So what’s there to do in Davenport? Well, you could go to jail… seriously! Hear how....

15

So if you’re into photography, or impressing your social media followers with epic views, we’ve got something special .. Shark Fin Cove!

16

You'll hear about some parking areas along the highway for some pretty scenic beaches and their claim to fame.

17

The park proudly hosts a collection of historic buildings, including an elegant Victorian home from 1897 and water-powered machine shop, echoing tales from a bygone era, breathing life into the rich history of the late 19th century.

18

This 65-acre marvel stands as a testament to the relentless artistry of nature. Hear why.

19
Stop 19 Pass by

Santa Cruz's historic Boardwalk is a meeting point of nostalgia and modern excitement along the breathtaking Monterey Bay. It's been operating since 1907, and has two roller coasters that are National Historic Landmarks!

20

Nestled on the northern edge of Monterey Bay, Santa Cruz is a city full of eclectic-culture, scenic beaches, and cutting-edge technology. You'll hear some of its history and how it fares today.

21

The fascinating town you'll be driving through, Aptos, is actually made up of several charming villages.

22

Hear about the city of Watsonville, where the 'Ohlone nation' of Indigenous Californians first inhabited the land.

23

This 7-mile-long tidal slough and estuary is a jewel in California's natural landscape.... we'll tell you why.

24

This area holds the distinction of being the largest untouched salt marsh on the California coast, characterized by ... we'll let you know!

25

A small town with a big reputation!

26

If you're a salad lover, you're going to want to listen up.

27

So it might surprise you to find that just a few miles off the coast lies an underwater chasm as big as the 'Grand Canyon'!

28

City of Monterey, a 'jewel' of California's past!

What's not included

**Recommended attractions may be closed/inaccessible due to season or reasons beyond our control.
Smartphone or tablet
Transportation (use your own vehicle)

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5
2 reviews
5★
1
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor 3.5
2 reviews
5★
0
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Service animals allowed
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The tour starts at either Monterey or San Francisco, although you can start anywhere along the route. Tour experience is the same in either direction.

Important notes

**HOW TO DOWNLOAD THE TRIPVIA TOURS APP & START THE TOUR**

Tour Code --> PACH85

1. Download and install the Tripvia Tours app (look for the logo with the multi-coloured letters). If you're reading this on your phone, tap on this link www.onelink.to/tripvia.
2. Open the app and find the tour you booked
3. Enter tour code PACH85.
4. Tap 'download tour', ​ ​***It is very important to ensure you have a good Wi-Fi or mobile data connection for the download process.
5. Follow the tutorial before leaving for your tour to learn how the app works.
6. Enjoy your tour!

Help → info@tripvia.tours | 1-866-874-7842

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

Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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