Things to Do in Monterey & Carmel

Feel the saltwater mist on your face as you sail through Monterey Bay on a dolphin and whale watching boat cruise. See gray whales, killer whales, and dolphins while marveling at the rugged coastline.

The ONLY Thai cooking class in Monterey! Fun & Tasty Party + Memorable Experience Plan your special holidays, surprise date night, birthday, bachelorette parties, company retreat, team building and family reunion events with Thai cooking class or just want to have fun learning about Thai cuisine. Tantalizing Thai food--Learn how to cook delicious and nutritious meals in no time! The class can be held with two people but expand up to six. It is a fun activity for everyone. We operate rain or shine! The class begins with learning the basics of Thai herbs and spices and what utensil and ingredients are typically found in a Thai kitchen. We will cover a wide assortment of famous Thai recipes and then proceed to learn to cook two of them and of course, enjoy dining together.

Embark on a whale-watching tour in Monterey Bay. Join a marine biologist or naturalist and learn more about the whales and other marine species in the area.

Looking to impress your date or just treat yourself to something unforgettable? Our Sunset Cruise is the most popular (and most romantic!) way to experience Monterey Bay. Departing daily, 90 minutes before sunset, this dreamy 1.5-hour sail includes complimentary drinks and a light snack.

Spend a memorable day on the water as you venture off shore from Monterey to find whales, dolphins, and other marine wildlife, on a fully narrated cruise.

This individual private day trip in a SUV for you, one to six persons. We go Monterey, Carmel, 17 Mile Drive, Pebble Beach. Beaches in Carmel and Carmel Mission. Then on Big Sur Highway one to Point Lobos, Garrapata State Beach, and Rocky Point at your own pace spending the time you want. With a chauffeur driven car, you don't need to worry about which roads to take and spending time looking for suitable parking, rest stops etc. These trips are not on a large vehicle with many participants, fixed timed stops and narration. Just you with family or friends. An experienced local resident would be the driver guide for your personal requirements. This trip can be customized and is ideal for travelers seeking an exclusive and personal unstructured experience. Other options: North of Monterey, Moss landing, past Santa Cruz is Henry Cowell Redwoods Park. San Juan Batista Mission, National Steinbeck Center, and wineries in Salinas Valley.

Join an educational whale watching trip on Monterey Bay. Learn about wildlife, conservation, and the natural history of the area from your naturalist guide. Take in the incredible sunset.

Our powerful eBikes will let you climb the steep hills of Pebble Beach and Carmel-by-the-Sea with ease! With over 40 miles of scenic coastline to explore, where the speed limit never exceeds 25 mph, Monterey Bay is one of the best cycling locations in the world. From our shop at 2106 Sunset Dr, bike lanes run adjacent to the road for miles in each direction! And there's lots of free parking nearby. In Pebble Beach, you'll see beautiful golf courses and stunning mansions all along the ride. Just after Bird Rock, in Pebble Beach, the bike lane cuts inland at the Spyglass Hill golf course, ending at the Pebble Beach Lodge. This is a great turnaround point for many.....after getting lunch or coffee and gelato at the Pebble Beach Market. If you are okay on a road shared with cars, then you can continue back on 17 Mile Drive along the ocean past the Ghost Trees and the Lone Cypress. More advanced cyclists can also explore further on 17 Mile Drive to Carmel!

Experience humpback, killer, gray, and blue whales on this Monterey Bay whale-watching tour from Moss Landing. See dolphins and other native California species alongside a marine biologist.

World class private tour, completely controlled by you! Embark on a journey to heavenly Carmel and discover the breathtaking wonders of the legendary 17-Mile Drive! Prepare for an unforgettable tour as you soar along stunning coastal cliffs, where the mighty Pacific Ocean crashes against rocky shores in a mesmerizing display of power. Marvel at the mesmerizing marriage of nature and luxury as you traverse the scenic route, passing world-renowned golf courses. Commentary by Bill Devoe, a local legend! This tour has been written by a local, who knows the very best spots of Santa Cruz. We have the best beach in all of Northern California, the best views, and best food and drinks available! Don't worry about other people, this tour is completely tailored to you with the Pintours App With our app, you can pause the tour, and check out the locations as long as you want! You can skip a stop you don't like, and you have all the best information about each stop at your fingertips.

Take a relaxing day trip from San Francisco along California's beautiful coastline. Drive Highway 1 to Monterey, explore Steinbeck's Cannery Row, and visit charming Carmel-by-the-Sea.

GuideAlong's Audio Tour takes you on an incredible self-guided journey along this scenic 130 mile stretch of California’s coast. Along the way you'll be guided to all of the area's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including towering Redwood trees, an elephant seal observation deck, and an iconic seaside restaurant. This self-guided audio tour helps you discover more on your road trip with fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions that plays automatically along the drive. With GyPSy Guide you have the freedom to explore offline at your own pace so you can spend more time at places that interest you. ✅ Tour operate in both directions ✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location ✅ Travel at your own pace ✅ Tours work offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed ✅ Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use ✅ Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates Purchase one tour per vehicle.

Explore Coastal Monterey and 17 Mile Drive from a powerful electric bike. Ride as far as Carmel and back, and take in all the wildlife and scenery.

This self-guided, self-paced audio walking tour will explore the rugged Carmel coastline where you will have stunning views of Point Lobos, Carmel Beach and Carmel River State Beach. The tour winds its way through the charming tree-lined streets of Carmel Point where you'll discover a number of the unique homes built on this one-time windswept treeless bluff. Along the way, you'll hear about Carmel's famous houses, its flora and fauna, the movies filmed on the point, and the first softball league in the US. You'll come across some colorful characters from the past such as Jean Arthur and Robinson Jeffers. The tour is ready whenever you are. The tour begins and ends at the Walker House Cabin on the Rocks. So start your tour with the VoiceMap app, put your phone in your pocket, and let us direct you on this adventure of Carmel-by-the-Sea Carmel Point Walking tour. Happy Adventures!

Embark on a scenic kayaking tour in Monterey and take in the amazing wildlife and beautiful nature of Cannery Row. Enjoy fascinating sightings of otters, harbor seals, and sea lions.

Enjoy a 3 - 4 hour sailing cruise on the Monterey Bay. This Marine Mammal and Wildlife Safari is a private guided tour and can accommodate up to 6 people. Whale sightings are NOT guaranteed. However, this tour is designed to give ample time to find and view whales, dolphins, sea lions, sea otters, and the many varieties of Marine Birds that call the Monterey Bay their home.

Legendary for its beauty, 17-Mile Drive meanders up and down the hills of Pebble Beach. Admire stunning seaside views, famous golf courses, and amazing mansions on this guided e-bike tour.

Discover a new way to Mini Golf in Monterey a fun loving haven with a unique 9-hole course and fun indoor games. Perfect for friends and family, it promises thrilling rounds, cozy seating, and refreshments. Conveniently located with ample parking in the garage adjacent, it’s your go-to for indoor fun any day

Explore the Monterey Peninsula in a vintage 1970 VW bus while tasting award winning California wines.

Looking for a little backcountry adventure with gorgeous views? Take an e-bike ride with us on the Old Coast Road Tour! From panoramic ocean views to the enchanted redwood forest, experience Big Sur on the pioneer’s wagon road. What once was a road for horses and wagons has evolved into a rough 4x4 dirt road that runs 10 miles through the hills and valleys of northern Big Sur. Much of the ride is through the middle of a 7,100 acre ranch that has been running cattle here since 1834. Depending on the season, there may be cows on the road! The hills are intense, so be ready to challenge your balance. Our powerful Pedego eBikes smooth out the daunting climbs. But riders over 180 lb should be prepared to pedal when climbing the hills. And be ready for some long descents on loose dirt (or mud in the winter). Local guides will make the ride come alive with fun info about the flora & fauna that we pass along the way. There's so much fun history that makes Big Sur special!

Enjoy a peaceful evening in Monterey Bay sailing on a catamaran. Take in the gorgeous sunset while sipping a complimentary beverage and feel the magic of a boat under sail.

Download GuideAlong’s self-guided audio tour of 17-Mile Drive and explore the Monterey Peninsula’s dramatic coastal views, rugged cliffs, and famous landmarks. See the iconic Lone Cypress tree standing tall for over 250 years, spot shipwreck remains at Fanshell Beach, watch seabirds, sea lions and seals gather at Bird Rock, and visit pristine beaches and renowned golf courses. Along the way, hear stories on historic Cannery Row, Spanish explorers and shipwrecks play automatically as you discover one of California’s most scenic coastal routes. Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location Travel at your own pace Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use No time limits or expiry, and free updates Like having a tour guide along for the drive Purchase one tour per vehicle.

Discover the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary on a sailing tour. Spot sea lions and other wildlife, and experience this stunning coastal area on a catamaran cruise.

Unleash your adventurous side with our Unlimited Games Package! This pass grants you the freedom to explore Monterey's delights while indulging in some truly unique fun. Dive into the only underground mini golf course in Monterey, where vibrant neon lights and exciting, age-friendly obstacles create an unforgettable experience. But that's not all – you'll also get to try our exclusive 1-2 Putt game, found only at Tipsy Putt. This one-of-a-kind 9-hole course combines the best elements of golf, shuffleboard, and pool, encouraging you to enjoy a drink while you play. With no time limits, you can play as many rounds as you like, making every visit a new adventure. Take breaks whenever you want to refuel with delicious food and sip on local beer, wine, and cocktails. The Unlimited Games Package ensures an exciting and memorable day filled with fun, laughter, and endless possibilities!

Join this scenic coastal tour and enjoy Highway 1, Monterey and its famous Cannery Row, 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and much more.

Enjoy a 3 hour cruise to search for and see local seabirds of the Monterey Bay. A vessel under sail is much quieter and therefore up close encounters with seabirds are common. This tour is great for birders who are looking for an intimate adventure where they will enjoy the perks of a front row seat to get their lifetime viewings and photos. Commonly sighted seabirds include but are not limited to: Osprey, Loons, Scoters, Guillimots, Common Murre, Brown Pelicans, Boobies, Gulls, Shearwaters, Albatross, Coromorants, Auklets, and much more.

Experience a 7-day tour to San Francisco, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion Park, departing from Los Angeles.

Your walk opens up a whole new vista of Carmel for you while our guides, who are skilled storytellers, weave together the tales of the arts and artists, architecture and history and the unbelievable stories of the people who created this unique village in a forest which is Carmel.

Follow your guide along one of the most scenic eBike rides in the world at a relaxed pace. Pedal down the coast, ride past the iconic beaches, and learn more about the history of this spectacular bay.

This nature walk takes you through serene woodlands, along craggy cliffs and beautiful coves. You may spot otters, seals and sealions, deer and birds. This is a mecca for taking memorable photos. Hearing the amazing human history of this unique piece of land will be part of your experience.

Explore the scenic and rugged coastline of the Monterey Peninsula accompanied by a local guide. Learn about the area's history and points of interest while taking in spectacular views at every turn.

Explore the Cannery Row that most visitors never see, with the Original Monterey Walking Tours and local guides who make the true tales of Monterey come alive! Journey through time with The Original Monterey Walking Tours and experience the enchanting allure of the Monterey waterfront and Cannery Row . Explore the hidden gems of Cannery Row, immerse yourself in the wonder of the bay, view playful sea otters, and walk among the buildings and iconic characters from a bygone era. Our highly rated tours provide an informative, entertaining, and fun-filled experience for every age, making your Monterey adventure unforgettable.

Experience Treasure Hunt: The Ride, a theme park ride on Cannery Row in Monterey. Go on an interactive and fun family adventure in underground pirate caves with animatronics and special effects.

Discover, Taste and Enjoy on this leisurely walk that will immerse you into the rich culinary gems and history of Monterey. Indulge in decadent specialties from hand-crafted ice cream, luxurious chocolates, ethnic cuisines, and local wines. Accompanied by a guide, stroll with an intimate group and deepen your knowledge of Monterey history. Learn exciting and historical facts along the way, all while enjoying personalized attention.

Experience the sights of Monterey on a fun and unique scooter car tour. Listen to the car's audio guide as you drive past the city's top sights.

During your tour you'll enjoy visits to three hand-selected wine tasting rooms with carefully curated tastings at each one. You'll also learn from local sommeliers about the region’s unique climates that produce a variety of world-renowned wines. And when it comes to enjoying Carmel, while guide books and websites might steer you in the right direction, there’s nothing quite like experiencing Carmel through the eyes of a local. Our expert guides will bring the town’s storied history to life. Going beyond the standard highlights you will explore what lies off the beaten path. And if you’re looking to make the most of your visit after the tour, our walking concierges will share our best recommendations for restaurants, bars, shopping, hiking and more!

Explore Top Places to See on a tour of the central California Coast: Monterey, Carmel By The Sea, Pebble Beach, 17-Mile Drive, Big Sur along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, including McWay Falls. 🙂

From fairy-tale cottages nestled in the trees to millionaire mansions along the beach, the charm and beauty of Carmel-by-the-Sea is unparalleled. While we take in the beautiful vistas, learn the history and stories surrounding some of our most famous buildings and residents. Conquer hills that you thought impossible with our powerful Pedego Electric Bikes! Hello fun.... The Carmel-by-the-Sea eBike Tour is a slow-paced tour covering approximately 12 miles. Part is focused on tree-lined streets in the sleepy neighborhoods of Carmel's "Golden Rectangle." When we ride the 3-mile Scenic Drive along the Ocean, it's hard to know which way to look.....gorgeous beach on on e side and gorgeous homes on the other! The variety of homes is stunning, including homes by Charles Sumner Green, and Frank Lloyd Wright. It's a favorite for architecture fans.

Discover the natural beauty of California at your own pace on a private 10-hour scenic tour of Carmel, Monterey, and Big Sur from San Francisco.

Legendary for it's beauty, 17-mile Drive meanders up and down the hills of Pebble Beach, past amazing mansions and it's famous golf courses.  We wind our way along the rugged coastline and through thick cypress groves, stopping at all the amazing viewpoints.  Our local guides share their knowledge of the area's unique ocean wildlife and iconic landmarks...the Lone Cypress, Point Pinos Lighthouse, Lover's Point, Asilomar Beach. 16 mi. round trip, approx 3 hrs.  Min. height 4'10"; Max. weight 350lb. Alternating between separated bike lanes & road shared with vehicles (25 mph speed limit), we recommend "youth" riders be ages 14+ to ride solo.  Parents may book a bike for ages 12+ if their child is experienced enough to ride on a 25 mph road shared with vehicles.  The "child" rate is for children between 40 lb. & 120 lb. riding tandem with a parent on a cargo e-bike.

Kayak along the pristine waters of Stillwater Cove inside Pebble Beach and along the edges of the world famous golf links!

The El Cat, built right here in Moss Landing, is a fully electric, 32 passenger, Coast Guard-certified vessel. This is a custom 37’ catamaran built and designed especially for the waters of our very own Elkhorn Slough.

Explore fairy-tale cottages nestled in the trees to millionaire mansions along the beach on this E-Bike Tour of Carmel!

Enjoy sailing the Monterey Bay without engine noise. You will be offered a complimentary beverage after your captain hoists the sails and catches the wind to make for a peaceful and exciting cruise on the bay. On the way out of the harbor, look out for sea lions, sea otters, and harbor seals. Once you pass the breakwater, the sailing fun begins and you can relax with a beverage while your captain takes care of you. Be sure to be on the look out for whales and dolphins while you sail! Our spacious and comfortable catamaran is the perfect vehicle for exploring the bay and searching for wildlife! You have a chance to see sea otter, sea lions, harbor seals, dolphins and whales!

Experience the northern Big Sur coast, a rugged and spectacular-mountainous section of California just south of Carmel. Explore the area, enjoy a scenic drive and guided nature/redwood-forest walk.

When in Monterey, kayaking on the bay is a must. Most renters describe this activity as the highlight of their visit to the area. There are so many mammals and birds to see when on the water.

When people take surf lessons with Big Surf Adventures they know they are guaranteed 3 things. Comfortable equipment, safe/certified instructors, and an enjoyable experience they will never forget!

You will be baking macarons with a macaron master who has been featured on the Cooking Channel. You will receive hands-on training and all the techniques, tips and tricks to create these gourmet treats at home!

Embark on a private 9-hour day trip from San Francisco to explore the stunning landscapes of Big Sur, Monterey, and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Drive along the Pacific Coast and enjoy breathtaking views

Discover the charming coastal town of Carmel and savor a series of tantalizing food tastings (which may include wine or a cocktail) on this 3-hour guided walking tour. Your passionate guide will share stories about the history, culture and architecture of Carmel as you stop at restaurants, stylish watering holes and food shops to meet business owners (when available) and sample different food items. You may visit places like a classic European Restaurant, a local tavern serving mixed fermentation brews and modern takes on classic dishes, purveyors of the freshest tortillas on the Monterey Peninsula, and a local producer of confections made from century-old recipes. In general, the tastings add up to an average lunch. Ideal for both tourists and Carmel residents, this tour is a leisurely and tasty way to learn more about this quaint town. This small group tour is generally limited to 16 people, ensuring more personal attention from your guide.