Big Sur Monterey 17 Mile Private Tour from San Francisco 1-12 ppl

Discover the California Coast and Silicon Valley with a Private Tour

This comprehensive review explores a private day tour from San Francisco that takes you through iconic sights like Big Sur, Monterey, and the heart of Silicon Valley in a luxurious, air-conditioned vehicle. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the details provided paint a picture of a flexible, well-organized experience perfect for those wanting to explore California’s scenic coast and tech hubs without the stress of driving.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the private nature means you get a customized experience tailored to your interests and pace. Second, the comfort of traveling in a private SUV or Sprinter with Wi-Fi and air conditioning adds a touch of luxury. Lastly, the all-day itinerary offers a good mix of natural beauty and cultural landmarks, from the redwoods to world-famous golf courses.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that lunch and dinner are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra time and money for meals. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized day without rushing, and who appreciate a mix of scenic stops, sightseeing, and cultural visits.

Good To Know

• Flexible, private experience tailored to your group
• Includes transportation, Wi-Fi, and hotel pickup for seamless travel
• Visits iconic spots like Stanford, Apple Campus, Big Sur, and 17-Mile Drive
• Duration of approximately 10 hours allows for a relaxed pace
• No meals included, so plan ahead
• Free cancellation available, adding peace of mind

The Allure of a Private California Coast and Silicon Valley Day Trip

If you’re looking to explore California without the hustle of public tours or rigid schedules, this private tour offers a compelling option. It combines the natural beauty of Big Sur and Monterey with the innovative spirit of Silicon Valley—all in one day, without the need to drive yourself.

The tour’s main appeal is the opportunity to see some of California’s most famous landmarks at your own pace while traveling in comfort. The private transportation ensures your group can relax, listen to your favorite music on Wi-Fi, and stop whenever you want to snap photos or soak in the views.

The cost of $650 per person might seem high, but when you consider the inclusiveness—private vehicle, all fees, and a full-day itinerary—it provides a good value, especially for groups seeking a private, hassle-free experience. Plus, the tour is often booked about 51 days in advance, indicating its popularity among travelers seeking a well-organized, exclusive trip.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Starting Point: San Francisco

The tour kicks off at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square at 8:30 am, when your private driver picks you up. From here, the journey begins with a scenic drive into some of California’s most stunning natural landscapes.

Redwoods, Santa Cruz, and Castroville

While not a specific stop, the drive through the towering Redwoods provides an awe-inspiring start to the day. You’ll then make your way south to Santa Cruz before heading to Castroville, famous for its artichokes and charming small-town vibe.

17-Mile Drive and Pebble Beach

One of the tour’s highlights is the 17-Mile Drive, which includes a stop at the iconic Lone Cypress. This stretch is renowned for its breathtaking coastal views, rugged cliffs, and golf course vistas. The ticket is included, and the roughly 1.5-hour stop lets you take photos, enjoy the scenery, and breathe in the fresh ocean air.

Monastery Beach & Point Lobos Drive-By

Next, you’ll make a quick stop at Monastery Beach on Highway 1, famed for its rugged shoreline and often turbulent waters. It’s a brief 15-minute visit, great for snapping photos or just soaking in the dramatic coastline.

Driving past Point Lobos offers a chance to admire one of the most scenic coastal areas, although it’s only a drive-by, so don’t expect a long hike here. Afterwards, a stop at Garrapata State Park introduces rocky beaches and coastal cliffs—perfect for nature lovers.

Bixby Bridge and Scenic Photo Ops

The Bixby Bridge is a must-see for many visitors. Known as one of the most photographed bridges in California, it offers a perfect photo opportunity with its impressive arch and views over the rugged coast. You’ll spend about 30 minutes here, enough to appreciate and capture the moment.

Returning Through Monterey, Prunedale, Gilroy, and Morgan Hill

As the tour winds back north, passing through Monterey allows for a brief glimpse of the historic Cannery Row and coastal charm. The drive continues through small towns and farmland, giving you a taste of the inland scenery before returning to San Francisco.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour’s inclusions make it quite convenient: private transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, Wi-Fi onboard, all fees and taxes, and hotel pickup/drop-off in the San Francisco Bay Area. These details ensure a stress-free experience — no worrying about parking, navigation, or additional costs.

However, meals are not included, so you’ll need to bring snacks, lunch, or plan to eat along the route. This can be a bit challenging depending on your timing and preferences, especially since the tour lasts roughly 10 hours.

Gratuities are also not included but are customary, so plan for tipping your driver if you appreciate their service.

Transport and Comfort

Traveling in a private SUV or Sprinter means you’ll have space and privacy for your group of 1-12 people. The air-conditioning and Wi-Fi add comfort, especially after a long day of sightseeing. The vehicle’s size is large enough to accommodate luggage or extra gear, and the route is carefully planned to maximize scenic stops without feeling rushed.

Feedback from reviews highlights that the driver’s knowledge and friendliness contribute significantly to the overall experience, making the long day more enjoyable.

Who Would Benefit Most from This Tour?

This private tour is ideal for families, friends, or small groups wanting a personalized experience. It suits travelers who prefer a flexible schedule, don’t want to drive themselves, and value comfort and convenience. Given the distance covered, it’s best for those who are comfortable with a full, busy day of sightseeing.

It also appeals to those wanting to skip the crowds and enjoy a tailored itinerary, with the added benefit of a dedicated driver who can adapt stops based on your interests.

Final Thoughts

This Big Sur, Monterey, and Silicon Valley private tour offers a superb way to see California’s coast and tech hubs without the stress of navigation. The private transportation, customizable stops, and scenic highlights make it a compelling choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, yet comprehensive day trip.

While the cost is on the higher side, the value of comfort, flexibility, and exclusive access justifies it for many. It’s particularly suited for small groups or anyone wanting an intimate experience with the freedom to explore at their own pace.

For those who want to combine natural beauty with a taste of Silicon Valley’s innovation, this tour provides a balanced, enjoyable adventure that covers both worlds in one day.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, making it a family-friendly option, provided everyone is comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What transportation is provided?
A private SUV or Sprinter vehicle with air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, designed for groups of 1-12 people.

What’s the start and end point?
The tour begins at Hilton San Francisco Union Square at 8:30 am and returns to the same location.

Are admission tickets included?
Yes, tickets for 17-Mile Drive and Bixby Bridge are included, but other stops like Garrapata State Park and Monastery Beach are free.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, so plan accordingly for lunch and snacks.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 10 hours, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy each stop.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 51 days ahead is common, and the tour confirms within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

This private tour offers a delightful combination of scenic beauty, cultural landmarks, and the freedom to explore at your own pace—all with the comfort and exclusivity of a private vehicle. Whether you’re into nature, technology, or just want a stress-free day along California’s iconic coast, it’s a choice that’s hard to beat.