7 Monterey & Carmel Tours That Earn the Road Trip

1.Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 2,300 reviews · 3 - 4 hours · from $75Our pick

Cruise from Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf with Discovery Whale Watch into Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. A biologist guide, often including Isaiah or Maddy, explains the wildlife as you search for humpbacks, dolphins, gray whales, blue whales, and more. The small boat, free hot drinks, and frequent sightings make this a strong choice for a half-day on the water.

“We saw a few humpbacks that stayed with us for most of the time. Beautiful watching them. The guides had great info on whale life to. Kids loved it aged 9 and 13”

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2.Monterey, Carmel and 17-Mile Drive: Full Day Tour from SF

★★★★★★★★★★4.0 · 2,187 reviews · 11 hours (approx.) · from $125

Ride from central San Francisco to Pigeon Point, Monterey, Pebble Beach, 17-Mile Drive, and Carmel-by-the-Sea. You get a guide, a luxury motor-coach, a two-hour Monterey stop, and one hour in Carmel. Guides such as George, Thomas, Don, and Tom are praised for clear commentary, but expect a long day with limited time outside the coach.

“The trip is a must for anyone in the San Francisco area but want to see what's around San Fran that you might didn't know was there. The driver was great and he was very knowledgeable. Monterey Bay was like an hidden gem and the drive along the coast is spectacular. Pebble Beach and the places around was nice to see along with Carmel being a nice beautiful place. Plenty of shops and pictures to take while your at the stops and even take a stroll down to the beach while your resting. San Francisco is nice, but the surrounding areas are nice to visit too.”

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3.Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,645 reviews · 3 hours · from $62Best value

Join Chris’ Fishing and Whale Watching at Old Fisherman’s Wharf for a three-hour cruise into Monterey Bay. Guides such as Kevin point out humpback and gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, otters, and seabirds while explaining migration and the bay’s fragile ecosystem. Smaller boats can offer clear views, but choppy water and confusing parking directions are worth noting.

“We had a great experience from beginning to end. luckily we had a chance to see quite a few whales.”

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4.4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,045 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $85Top rated

Join Discovery Whale Watch at 9am from Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf for about three and a half hours on Monterey Bay. A marine biologist or naturalist, with deckhand support, explains whale behavior, local ecology, and conservation while you search for humpbacks, gray whales, blue whales, dolphins, sea lions, and birds. Guides such as Isaiah, Maddy, and Colby have been praised for lively, helpful commentary.

“Seasickness even after taking dramamine may happen so be prepared. A stabilizer for your phone to take better pictures is recommended.”

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5.Monterey: Sunset Whale Watching Cruise with A Guide

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 519 reviews · 3 hours · from $75

Meet at Discovery Whale Watch on Fisherman’s Wharf for a three-hour sunset cruise with a marine biologist or naturalist. Guides such as Isaiah, Andrew, Kevin, and Maddie have led trips featuring humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, otters, and occasional orcas. Bring warm layers, since the bay can turn cold and windy after sunset.

“Isaiah was a very fun and informative guide. He was super into teaching and explaining what was going on. The rest of the crew was super friendly and attentive to meet all needs. There were quite a lot of people on the boat but it didn’t seem too crowded due to lots of deck space. Thanks also to Jessie and JJ!”

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6.From San Francisco: Monterey and Carmel Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 476 reviews · 11h 30m · from $139

Spend about 11.5 hours traveling from San Francisco down Highway 1 with an English-speaking guide. Stop at Pigeon Point, Davenport, Cannery Row, the 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, and Carmel-by-the-Sea. You get an air-conditioned coach, onboard bathroom, and free time in Monterey and Carmel. Aquarium admission, meals, and hotel transfers cost extra.

“Our trip was wonderful. Made even greater by our guide. His name unfortunately escapes me, but he was very charismatic and incredibly well informed on all aspects of our trip. I will highly recommend this to friends.”

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7.Monterey: Whale Watching Tour with A Marine Guide

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 348 reviews · 2h 30m · from $70

Spend 150 minutes aboard the Princess Monterey or Atlantis Monterey in search of whales, dolphins, sea lions, and seabirds. A marine guide explains animal behavior and Monterey Bay ecology while you watch from heated cabins, large windows, or the 360-degree outdoor deck. Food and drinks are available onboard, and upper-deck seating may be purchased if space remains.

“We got lost amd we were 5 min late, but the gracious staff waited for us. The guide and the voyage were exceptional, and extremely expert. Great people !”

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