Walking tours offer the best introduction to Monterey and Carmel’s rich history. I love the Original Monterey Walking Tour, which brings Cannery Row‘s sardine-canning past to life through colorful stories and historic sites. In Carmel-by-the-Sea, the guided walking tour stands out for its intimate look at the town’s transformation from artist colony to upscale village.
For independent explorers, self-guided audio tours work wonderfully. They allow you to discover Carmel’s storybook cottages, the famous 17-Mile Drive, and the historic Carmel Mission at your own pace – perfect for photographers and history buffs.
Let’s explore the top guided experiences in both towns.
Good To Know
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Original Monterey Walking Tours offer engaging historical insights on Cannery Row’s history with knowledgeable guides and strong connections to John Steinbeck’s literary works.
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Carmel-by-the-Sea Guided Walking Tour showcases key historical sites in Carmel through a small group experience with 5-star ratings from travelers.
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Self-guided audio tours in Carmel and along the California coast provide flexible, cost-effective options for personalized exploration with offline access to commentary.
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The Scenic 17-Mile Drive Tour offers a self-drive audio experience highlighting the Monterey to Carmel coastline with GPS-enabled navigation and engaging storytelling.
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While most tours are not wheelchair accessible, they generally allow flexible pacing and offer lifetime access to audio content for user convenience.
The Original Monterey Walking Tours : Guided Tours of Cannery Row
Although Monterey is known for its picturesque coastline and vibrant marine life, the city’s past as the “Sardine Capital of the World” is often overlooked.
This is where Monterey Walking Tours steps in, offering a guided experience that immerses visitors in the historical significance of Cannery Row. The tour covers the region from the breakwater to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, providing breathtaking bay views and insights into the fishing and canning industry that once thrived here.
Led by knowledgeable guides like Shirley and Thom, the 2-hour walk is highly recommended by travelers for its engaging storytelling and deep connections to literature, particularly the works of John Steinbeck.
Read our full review: The Original Monterey Walking Tours : Guided Tours of Cannery Row Review
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Guided 2-Hour Walking Tour in Carmel by the Sea
A guided 2-hour walking tour in Carmel by the Sea transports visitors through the charming coastal town‘s key historical sites.
Rated 5.0 with 87 reviews and recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour showcases the First Murphy House, Church of the Wayfarer, Tuck Box, and Hogs Breath Inn.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the small group experience, limited to 16 participants, provides engaging narratives and historical insights.
The tour meets at the Garden Courtyard of the Pine Inn Hotel and ends at the Carmel Art Association Gallery.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Travelers praise the guide’s enthusiasm and suggest wearing comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the leisurely 2-hour walk.
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The Original Monterey Walking Tours: Guided Tours of Historic Monterey
Showcasing the rich history and captivating landmarks of Monterey, the Original Monterey Walking Tours provide guided exploration through the city’s vibrant past.
Led by engaging, personable, and knowledgeable guides, the 2-hour walking tour delves into Monterey’s significance in California’s history, sharing engaging stories and valuable insights.
Starting at Portola Plaza and concluding near Fisherman’s Wharf, the tour highlights the city’s unique development and historical importance.
With a maximum of 10 participants, the tours offer an intimate and accessible experience, catering to wheelchair users, families, and those relying on public transportation.
Backed by a 5.0 rating and a Badge of Excellence, the Original Monterey Walking Tours have earned a stellar reputation among 93% of travelers.
Read our full review: The Original Monterey Walking Tours: Guided Tours of Historic Monterey Review
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Carmel-by-the-Seas Fairytale Houses: A Self-Guided Walking Tour
The fairytale cottages of Carmel-by-the-Sea, designed by renowned architect Hugh Comstock, invite visitors on a self-guided walking tour through the town’s enchanting architectural gems.
The 40-minute audio tour, accessible through the VoiceMap app, provides insights into the history and features of 11 iconic cottages.
Travelers can explore at their own pace, with the option to stop for food and shopping along the way.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and open to most participants.
Reviews are mixed, with some technical issues reported, but the tour’s positive feedback highlights the engaging narration and historical perspectives it offers.
Read our full review: Carmel-by-the-Seas Fairytale Houses: A Self-Guided Walking Tour Review
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Scenic 17-Mile Drive Tour – Self Drive Audio Guide From Monterey & Carmel
Spanning the breathtaking coastline between Monterey and Carmel, the self-drive 17-Mile Drive audio tour invites visitors to enjoy the region’s natural splendor and rich history.
The tour’s GPS-enabled map ensures seamless navigation, while the offline access and hands-free audio playback offer unparalleled convenience.
Highlights include iconic landmarks like Cannery Row, Spanish Bay, and the Lone Cypress.
With engaging storytelling and a comprehensive route, the tour delivers a captivating experience, whether users are exploring solo or as a group.
While not wheelchair-accessible, the tour’s flexibility and cost-effectiveness make it an appealing option for travelers seeking a self-guided adventure along the stunning Monterey Peninsula.
Read our full review: Scenic 17-Mile Drive Tour – Self Drive Audio Guide From Monterey & Carmel Review
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Scenic Path Carmel-by-the-Sea: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Scenic Path offers a captivating self-guided audio tour that invites visitors to explore the quaint coastal town’s charming streets and historical landmarks.
The 75-minute tour, accessed through the VoiceMap app, features a 92% traveler recommendation and lifetime access to the audio in English.
With offline maps and GPS-enabled directions, travelers can start, pause, and restart the tour at their own pace.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most visitors can participate.
With an overall rating of 5.0 based on 13 reviews, the tour provides an immersive experience, though some users report usability issues with the app.
Read our full review: Scenic Path Carmel-by-the-Sea: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbecks Monterey
Enjoy the captivating history of Monterey’s Cannery Row with the self-guided audio tour, “Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbeck’s Monterey.”
Starting at the iconic Sardine Factory, this 60-minute experience invites travelers to uncover the neighborhood’s vibrant past as the epicenter of the West Coast’s booming sardine industry.
With flexible access through the VoiceMap app, explorers can embark on this journey at their own pace, discovering hidden gems and gaining insights into the local culture.
While the tour has received generally positive reviews, some users have reported technical issues and a preference for self-guided exploration.
Nonetheless, this experience offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich history of Cannery Row.
Read our full review: Historic Cannery Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of John Steinbecks Monterey Review
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Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Travelers exploring the charming downtown of Carmel-by-the-Sea can embark on a self-guided audio tour that unveils the unique character of this picturesque town.
The tour, accessible through the VoiceMap app, provides GPS-assisted, offline access to audio commentary, maps, and geodata, allowing users to learn about local landmarks, art galleries, and parks at their own pace.
While the tour has received mixed reviews, with some finding it informative and others feeling it was promotional, it offers a convenient way for independent travelers to discover Carmel-by-the-Sea.
The lifetime access and non-expiring nature of the tour make it a flexible option for those seeking to explore the area.
Read our full review: Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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Off the Beaten Path in Carmel-by-the-Sea: A Self-Guided Tour
Discovering the quaint charms of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s off-the-beaten-path locations is the focus of this self-guided audio tour.
With lifetime access, users can explore the area at their own pace using the VoiceMap application. The tour features offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, allowing participants to start, pause, or restart anytime.
Although not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals. While GPS accuracy may vary, the tour provides a unique opportunity to uncover the town’s hidden gems beyond the main streets.
Priced at $7.99 per person, this self-guided experience is available daily from 12:00 AM to 11:59 PM, making it a flexible and affordable way to discover Carmel-by-the-Sea’s lesser-known treasures.
Read our full review: Off the Beaten Path in Carmel-by-the-Sea: A Self-Guided Tour Review
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Carmel Point: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Carmel Point: A Self-Guided Audio Tour is a VoiceMap audio tour that allows visitors to explore Carmel Point, Monterey, and Carmel at their own pace.
The tour provides lifetime access to the audio in English and can be accessed through the VoiceMap app on Android and iOS devices.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infants must sit on laps. Most travelers can participate, as it’s a private tour.
The tour includes offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, and detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading the app.
The meeting point is the Clinton Walker House – Frank Lloyd Wright, and the tour ends back at the same location.
Read our full review: Carmel Point: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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Carmel by the Sea: A Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour
The Carmel by the Sea: A Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour invites visitors to explore the charming coastal town at their own pace. Accessible through the VoiceMap app, the tour provides lifetime access to audio commentary, maps, and offline geodata.
Priced from $8.99 per group of up to 15 people, the self-guided experience allows travelers to start, pause, and restart the tour at any time. While the tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and accommodates service animals.
However, some past participants have expressed confusion, mistaking the self-guided format for a bus tour. The Carmel by the Sea tour offers a flexible way to discover the town’s sights and attractions.
Read our full review: Carmel by the Sea: A Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour Review
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Driving the California Coast: a Self-Guided Audio Tour From Carmel to Santa Cruz
Embarking on a scenic tour along the California coast, the “Driving the California Coast: a Self-Guided Audio Tour From Carmel to Santa Cruz” invites travelers to discover the region’s stunning landscapes and charming seaside towns.
With lifetime access to the tour’s audio, maps, and geodata, adventurers can explore at their own pace using the VoiceMap app.
Starting from Carmel’s Mission Ranch Restaurant, the tour guides visitors through the iconic Highway 1 before concluding at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees or transportation, its self-guided nature allows for a personalized experience.
Despite some technical issues reported by past users, the host offers troubleshooting support and a refund option.
Read our full review: Driving the California Coast: a Self-Guided Audio Tour From Carmel to Santa Cruz Review
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Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway 1, the “Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1” allows travelers to enjoy the breathtaking vistas of Big Sur at their own pace.
Operated by GuideAlong, the tour features 170 location-based audio points with stories, tips, and directions that autoplay. Travelers can enjoy flexible routes, with suggested itineraries or custom routes, and access trip planners.
The tour is easy to use, with pre-downloadable offline access, and is available from May 16, 2023, to December 11, 2025. Priced at $17.99 per group (up to 8), the tour offers a seamless and informative experience, as evidenced by its 5-star rating and positive customer reviews.
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Coastal 17-Mile Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour (Monterey & Carmel)
Why not explore the captivating Coastal 17-Mile Drive in Monterey and Carmel through a self-guided audio tour?
With over 10 engaging driving tours from Las Vegas, this comprehensive option ensures you won’t miss a single highlight.
Utilizing the easy-to-use Action’s Tour Guide App, you’ll enjoy offline maps, hands-free narration, and the flexibility to start, pause, and revisit the tour as you please.
The full itinerary includes travel tips, audio stories, photos, and recommendations to create a personalized experience.
Rated 5.0 out of 5, users praise the beautiful scenery and enriching narration that enhances their self-guided exploration at their own pace.
Read our full review: Coastal 17-Mile Drive Self-Guided Audio Tour (Monterey & Carmel) Review
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Carmel-by-the-Sea Mission Areas: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Visitors seeking a captivating exploration of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s historic mission areas can enjoy a self-guided audio tour. Accessible via the VoiceMap app, the tour offers lifetime access to insightful commentary in English.
Travelers can conveniently start, pause, or restart the tour at any time, with detailed instructions available after downloading the app. While the tour is suitable for most, it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Priced at $7.99 per person, the non-refundable tour ends back at the starting point. Although one reviewer praised the “incredible houses,” they faced issues with app functionality.
Despite this, the tour provides an opportunity to discover Carmel-by-the-Sea’s mission areas at one’s own pace.
Read our full review: Carmel-by-the-Sea Mission Areas: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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Monterey Bay Drive: a Self-Guided Audio Tour From Del Monte Beach to Cannery Row
Travelers embarking on the Monterey Bay Drive self-guided audio tour can expect a captivating exploration of the scenic coastal region from Del Monte Beach to Cannery Row.
The tour offers lifetime access to the audio content in English, allowing participants to start, pause, or restart the experience at any time using the VoiceMap app.
While the tour doesn’t include entrance fees to museums or attractions, it provides offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, ensuring a seamless and immersive journey.
With a private group format and a 1-star rating based on a single review, this tour may not be suitable for all travelers, but it could offer a unique way to discover the highlights of Monterey Bay.
Read our full review: Monterey Bay Drive: a Self-Guided Audio Tour From Del Monte Beach to Cannery Row Review
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Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Bohemian Art Scene: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Bohemian art scene captivates visitors with its vibrant galleries, quaint courtyards, and charming shops.
Exploring this artistic haven is now easier than ever with a self-guided audio tour. The tour, available in English with lifetime access, takes travelers on a journey through the town’s Bohemian offerings.
Accessible via the VoiceMap app, the tour provides offline access to audio, maps, and geodata, allowing visitors to immerse themselves at their own pace. The tour starts and ends at the Cypress Inn, and while it’s stroller-accessible, it’s not suitable for wheelchairs.
Priced at just $7.99 per person, this private experience offers a unique way to discover Carmel-by-the-Sea’s thriving art scene.
Read our full review: Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Bohemian Art Scene: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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17 Mile Drive: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of Pebble Beach’s Historical Highlights
Exploring the iconic 17 Mile Drive in Pebble Beach just got more engaging with a self-guided audio tour highlighting the area’s rich history.
The tour, accessible through the VoiceMap app, provides lifetime access to 17 stops along the scenic route. Travelers can start, pause, or restart the tour at any time, with detailed instructions on the starting point.
The tour covers 1.5 to 2 hours and includes commentary on the region’s connection to golf events and impressive homes.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most visitors. With an average rating of 4.3 from 4 reviews, this self-guided experience offers an immersive way to discover the historical highlights of Pebble Beach‘s renowned 17 Mile Drive.
Read our full review: 17 Mile Drive: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of Pebble Beach’s Historical Highlights Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Times to Visit Monterey and Carmel?
The best times to visit Monterey and Carmel are in the spring and fall when the weather’s mild, crowds are smaller, and prices for accommodations are lower. Summer’s popular but busier, while winters can be cool and rainy.
How Much Time Should I Allocate for Each Tour?
The amount of time needed for each tour in Monterey and Carmel varies, but visitors should typically allocate 2-3 hours per tour to fully experience the highlights and have time for questions. Tour lengths may differ based on the specific tour and number of stops.
Can I Bring Pets on the Guided Tours?
Most guided tours in Monterey and Carmel don’t allow pets due to safety and liability concerns. However, some tours may accommodate service animals. Guests should check with the tour operator before booking to ensure they can bring their pet along.
Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?
Many guided tour operators offer discounts for seniors, students, and groups, as well as package deals that combine multiple attractions or experiences. Travelers should check with individual tour companies to inquire about available discounts or bundled offerings.
What Is the Best Mode of Transportation to Explore the Area?
The best mode of transportation to explore the Monterey and Carmel area is a rental car. It provides the flexibility to visit various attractions at your own pace and can be more cost-effective than relying solely on guided tours or public transportation.
The Sum Up
Monterey and Carmel offer a variety of guided and self-guided tours to suit different preferences. Visitors can explore Cannery Row, historic Monterey, Carmel’s fairytale houses, and the scenic 17-Mile Drive. They can also explore the Carmel Mission areas, Monterey Bay, and Carmel’s bohemian art scene through self-guided audio tours. These diverse options allow travelers to discover the region’s rich history, natural beauty, and cultural attractions at their own pace.