Monterey: 1-Hour GPS Guided Scooter Car Tour

Introduction

If you’re after a way to see Monterey that’s both fun and uniquely memorable, a GPS-guided scooter car tour might just be your perfect match. We’ve looked into the experience, which promises a lively, self-guided adventure along California’s stunning coast, and it definitely offers a fresh way to explore this charming seaside town.

What draws us in? First, the open-air scooter cars deliver an engaging, almost playful way to soak in the sights. Second, the GPS guide ensures you don’t miss key landmarks, while still giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Lastly, the chance to pass by top sights like Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium makes it a practical choice for those wanting both fun and sightseeing—without the hassle of traditional tours.

A possible consideration? The one-hour limit might feel brief for those wanting a more extensive exploration, but it’s ideal for a quick, scenic snapshot. This tour is best suited for travelers wanting an interactive, photo-worthy experience that’s easy to do, especially for those comfortable with driving small vehicles and eager for a bit of adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Self-guided adventure with GPS ensures a flexible sightseeing experience.
• Open-air scooter cars add an element of fun and novelty.
• Top sights like Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium are included in the route.
• One-hour duration makes it perfect for a quick, scenic exploration.
• Limited group size (up to 2 participants) offers a more personalized experience.
• Good value for the price considering the unique mode of transport and sightseeing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This GPS-guided scooter car tour offers a blend of independence and guided storytelling that appeals to many travelers. The two-seater open-top scooter cars, known as GoCars, are eye-catching and easy to operate—ideal for those looking to combine fun with sightseeing. The audio guide (delivered via the GPS system) narrates stories and points out landmarks, giving you context without the need for a noisy group tour.

The scenic route encompasses Monterey’s most notable sights. You’ll pass the iconic Cannery Row, famous from Steinbeck’s stories and a hub for shops and eateries. The Monterey Bay Aquarium, one of the world’s best aquariums, is also on the way, giving you an opportunity to snap photos from the outside or plan a future visit inside.

Other highlights include the Old Whaling Station Adobe, a historic site, as well as the Points Pinos Lighthouse, which offers some of the most breathtaking views along the coast. The tour is designed to be both relaxed and flexible, with stops at beautiful viewpoints such as Lovers Point and Harbor Seal Lookout.

The Experience in Detail

The tour kicks off near Friendly Plaza, home to the Monterey Museum of Art. From there, you’re in the driver’s seat—literally—and can cruise along the coast, with the GPS guiding your route. The GPS system is praised for its accuracy, with reviewers noting it’s easy to follow and helps you discover lesser-known spots like the Moon Tree—a charming, hidden gem.

Expect to pass through some of Monterey’s most Instagram-worthy sights, such as Sister City Park and San Carlos Beach. The Cannery Row Monument, located at Steinbeck Plaza, serves as a great photo stop and a reminder of Monterey’s rich past. The Monterey Bay Aquarium, though not inside the tour, is close enough to warrant a quick stop or at least a photo in passing.

The route then takes you to Harbor Seal Lookout, a vantage point for observing local marine life, along with Lovers Point and Kissing Rock Viewpoint. These scenic stops provide excellent photo opportunities and chances to take a breather before heading to the Point Pinos Lighthouse—the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast.

The tour ends at the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, a favorite for nature lovers, as well as the John Steinbeck Cottage and Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. Reviewers mention the off-the-beaten-path spots that the GPS helps uncover, which might be missed on a traditional tour.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This experience lasts about one hour, making it suitable for a morning or late afternoon adventure. The small group size (up to 2 people) allows for a more intimate experience, and the cost of $112 per group reflects the novelty of the vehicle and the guided route. For those worried about insurance, an optional CDW insurance is available for an extra $12.

You’ll receive a helmet and the GPS-guided GoCar rental, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—great for flexible travel plans. To drive, you must be over 18 with a valid driver’s license, but passengers can be as young as 4, making it family-friendly—though younger children are not permitted as drivers.

Keep in mind, smoking isn’t allowed, and comfortable clothing, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended. The tour runs morning, afternoon, and evening, giving you flexibility to fit it into your day.

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The Value for Money

At $112 for a one-hour tour, the cost might seem high compared to traditional walking tours, but considering the unique mode of transportation and the self-guided nature, it’s actually quite reasonable. You get a personalized experience with the ability to pause, snap photos, or linger at viewpoints—something that larger bus tours or standard guided walks don’t provide.

On top of that, reviews note the stunning views and the value of discovering lesser-known spots—which adds to the overall experience. The ease of navigation via GPS means you’ll enjoy the sights without stressing about directions, making it a good choice for solo travelers or couples.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see Monterey from a different perspective and enjoy the outdoors. It suits those comfortable with small vehicles and looking for a light, engaging, and flexible activity. Families with children over 4 will find it fun, especially if they enjoy a bit of driving and sightseeing.

It’s perfect for photo enthusiasts eager to capture panoramic views and hidden corners of Monterey, as well as visitors seeking a quick but memorable way to explore without committing to a lengthy tour. If you’re on a budget but still want a personalized experience, this offers a lot of value.

The Sum Up

The GPS-guided scooter car tour in Monterey offers a refreshing way to see the city’s top sights without the crowd or rigid schedules of traditional tours. The fun open-air vehicles and narrated GPS guide combine to create an engaging, stress-free experience that highlights scenic viewpoints and historic landmarks alike.

This is a fantastic choice for couples, solo explorers, or small groups who enjoy a bit of adventure and want to keep things flexible. While the one-hour duration might not satisfy those looking for a full-day exploration, it’s a perfect snapshot of Monterey’s beauty that’s easy to fit into any itinerary.

If you’re craving a fun, practical, and memorable way to explore, this tour hits the mark—delivering both stunning views and a dash of playful exploration. The combination of great value, scenic beauty, and a touch of novelty makes it a standout activity for Monterey visitors.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children over 4 years old can be passengers, but they cannot drive the scooter car. Younger kids aren’t permitted due to safety regulations.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, drivers must be over 18 and possess a valid driver’s license to operate the GPS-guided scooter car.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Bring your driver’s license, sunglasses, a camera, and comfortable clothing. A helmet is provided.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, covering key sights and viewpoints along Monterey’s coast.

Is the tour available in the evening?
Yes, it’s usually available in the morning, afternoon, and evening, so you can choose a time that suits your schedule.

In summary, this GPS-guided scooter car tour provides a delightful way to experience Monterey’s scenic beauty and highlights. Its blend of fun, flexibility, and insider-access makes it a worthwhile choice for travelers wanting a memorable, photo-worthy adventure along California’s coast.

You can check if your dates are available here: