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

This electric bike tour promises a fascinating way to experience one of California’s most gorgeous coastlines. While we haven’t personally hit the pedals, reviews and detailed descriptions make it clear this journey offers a blend of stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and charming towns—all from the comfort of a powerful e-bike.

What truly stands out are the spectacular coastal views, the chance to see local sea otters, seals, and sea lions, and the knowledgeable guides who make the ride informative and enjoyable. We also love how accessible this is for most riders, with the assist of electric bikes easing hills and longer stretches, making it a manageable yet exhilarating outing.

However, a word of caution: since some parts of the route share roads with cars, it’s important to feel comfortable riding in traffic. This tour is best suited for those with some biking experience and a desire to explore at a relaxed, scenic pace.

Ultimately, if you’re seeking a combination of adventure, wildlife, and stunning coastlines, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s a wonderful choice for travelers who enjoy active days but prefer a guided, well-paced experience.

Good To Know

• Balanced mix of scenic drives and active riding suitable for most levels
• Wildlife sightings including sea otters, seals, and sea lions
• Stops at iconic sights like the Lone Cypress and Bird Rock
• Informative guides who enhance the experience with local insights
• Comfort and safety gear provided, with optional extras available
• Flexible options to extend or customize your ride, including a route into Carmel

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Equipment

Your adventure begins with meeting your guide and picking up your powerful e-bike. The tour includes a thorough safety briefing, making sure everyone feels confident before heading out. Helmets are mandatory, and locks, a handlebar bag, and a map are provided to help you feel organized and secure throughout.

The e-bikes are designed to handle the varied terrain of the coast, with a throttle and pedal assist that make climbing hills less daunting. Reviewers highlight that the bikes are governed to a comfortable 20 mph, but most riders won’t hit that on the scenic stretches shared with traffic. This helps keep everyone safe and comfortable.

The Route and Key Stops

The tour kicks off by riding uphill toward 17 Mile Drive, a renowned scenic route that showcases some of California’s most famous vistas. Turning right onto the drive, you’ll pass the prestigious Pebble Beach golf courses, where deer often graze peacefully in the yards—an unusual but delightful sight for many.

Pebble Beach itself offers stunning views—think Spanish Bay, Point Joe, Restless Sea, and China Rock. These spots are ideal for snapping photos and soaking in the natural beauty. A favorite among many is Bird Rock, where you can observe the splashing sea lions and enjoy the brief walk to see these lively creatures sunbathing.

For wildlife lovers, Fanshell Beach Overlook and Cypress Point Lookout are highlights. Here, you might catch sight of sea otters, a rare treat that makes the trip memorable. Reviewers mention that guides are often very knowledgeable about the area’s wildlife, adding an educational layer to the experience.

The Iconic Lone Cypress and Beyond

No visit to 17 Mile Drive is complete without stopping at the Lone Cypress. Perched on a solitary outcropping, this iconic tree symbolizes the beauty and resilience of the coast. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate the rugged landscape.

Next, explore the Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point, a dramatic coastline that looks like something from a painting. The short walk there offers some of the most beautiful scenery — rugged cliffs, crashing waves, and sculpted trees.

The tour can include a stop at the Pebble Beach Lodge for food, restrooms, and shopping, offering a convenient break before heading back. The route’s flexibility means you can choose to return the same way or extend your exploration into Carmel.

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The Practical Aspects and Comfort

Most reviews appreciate the well-organized logistics—from the gear provided to the instructions from guides. The 4-hour duration is enough to cover significant ground without feeling rushed. The tour operates in the morning or afternoon, giving options depending on your schedule and weather preferences.

Even if the weather isn’t perfect, riding in light rain is optional, and the company has policies for heavy rain, automatically rescheduling or offering cancellations. The bikes are comfortable, with enough power to handle the slight inclines and curvy roads, making it accessible for those with basic biking skills.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The knowledgeable guides are frequently praised for their friendliness and local insights, turning what could be a simple bike ride into a richer experience. As one reviewer from France shared, “super temps et vues magnifiques” (great weather and stunning views), highlighting how well the conditions align with expectations.

Another reviewer from the United States pointed out that the drive loop is amazing, but some sections lack dedicated bike lanes, requiring riders to stay alert. This is a good reminder that some traffic awareness is necessary, especially in the shared scenic areas.

Pricing and Value

At $55 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the length, guidance, and access to exclusive spots. The cost includes the bike, helmet, locks, and a map — essentials that make the ride safe and hassle-free. For those wanting extra batteries or more time, additional fees apply, but for most, the included equipment is sufficient to enjoy the full route comfortably.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who want to see the coast from a different perspective. It suits those comfortable on a bike, eager to enjoy scenic views and wildlife, and interested in learning about the area’s landmarks from an engaging guide. Families with older children, couples, or solo adventurers will find it both accessible and rewarding.

The Sum Up

This half-day electric bike tour of Monterey and 17 Mile Drive offers a fantastic blend of sightseeing, wildlife, and active fun. The electric bikes make covering the distance enjoyable and manageable, even for those with limited cycling experience, while the guided element enriches the trip with local stories and tips.

The stops, from the Lone Cypress to Bird Rock, are beautifully curated to showcase the coast’s natural and iconic highlights. The tour’s flexibility allows you to tailor your experience—whether you prefer to ride back or extend into Carmel—making it adaptable to your interests and energy levels.

For travelers craving a memorable, scenic, and engaging activity, this tour provides great value, comfort, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s especially suited for those who want to explore at a relaxed pace without sacrificing the thrill of being outdoors.

FAQ

Is the bike tour suitable for beginners?
While some experience biking is helpful, the electric bikes’ pedal assist makes it accessible for most riders, including those with limited cycling experience.

What should I bring on the tour?
A passport or ID is needed for check-in, along with comfortable shoes. Rain gear is optional, and the company provides helmets, locks, and a handlebar bag.

Can I extend the tour or customize the route?
Yes, additional time or route extensions are available for extra fees, allowing you to explore more of Carmel or enjoy the coast at your own pace.

What happens if it rains?
Riding in light rain is permitted, and the tour can be canceled or rescheduled in heavy rain (more than 1 centimeter forecasted within 4 hours).

Are there any restrictions on who can participate?
Yes, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 ft 8 in (145 cm) or those over 300 lbs (136 kg). It requires comfortable biking ability, especially on shared roads.

Is there a guided commentary during the ride?
Absolutely, guides provide insightful commentary about the scenery, wildlife, and history, enriching your experience along the way.

This electric bike journey through Monterey and 17 Mile Drive is an excellent way to explore the coast’s most stunning sights with ease and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just looking for a scenic adventure, it offers a memorable way to see one of California’s most celebrated coastlines.

You can check if your dates are available here: