Background

Handcar Tours, Salinas Valley Travel Guide

4.8 (170)

Experience a unique pedal-powered rail adventure through scenic landscapes with Handcar Tours, a memorable activity for families and outdoor enthusiasts. **CLOSING AUG 28, 2025**

Experience the Monterey Branch Line and Fort Ord Dunes State Park like never before with Handcar Tours. Pedal-powered handcars offer a unique and engaging way to explore the scenic landscape, providing a memorable adventure for families and individuals alike.

A brief summary to Handcar Tours

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Handcar Tours.

  • Book your tour in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for pedaling.
  • Bring water and snacks to stay hydrated and energized during the tour.
  • Arrive early to allow time for parking and check-in.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as coastal conditions can change quickly.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Explore Handcar Tours on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Handcar Tours, mapped for you.

Unlock the Best of Handcar Tours

Buy tickets

  • No tickets available

Book tours with entry

  • No tours available

Book tours without entry

  • No tours available

Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from Highway 1, exit onto Del Monte Boulevard and head east. Handcar Tours is located at 3071 Del Monte Blvd, Marina, CA 93933. Look for the parking area adjacent to the railroad tracks. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    From the Salinas Transit Center, take Monterey-Salinas Transit (MST) bus line 49 towards Marina. Get off at the Del Monte Blvd & 8th St stop. Walk south on Del Monte Blvd for about 0.5 miles to reach Handcar Tours. A one-way fare on MST is approximately $3.

  • Taxi/Ride Share

    Use a taxi or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft for a direct route to Handcar Tours at 3071 Del Monte Blvd, Marina, CA 93933. The fare from central Salinas typically ranges from $20 to $30, depending on traffic.

Discover more about Handcar Tours

Handcar Tours offers a unique and active way to experience the beauty of the Monterey Branch Line and Fort Ord Dunes State Park. These guided tours utilize handcars, which are manually propelled rail vehicles, allowing you to explore the area with a bit of physical effort. Each handcar can accommodate up to four participants, making it a fun activity for families or small groups. At least two participants must be over 16 years old, and each person needs to be at least 50 inches tall. As you pedal along the tracks, you'll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, including lush greenery and coastal scenery. The tours also provide insights into the local history and culture, making it an enriching experience.Handcar Tours is located in Marina, California, a city known for its diverse dining options and outdoor activities. The area boasts vast stretches of dunes and rolling hills, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to Handcar Tours, visitors can explore Fort Ord National Monument, Marina State Beach, and other nearby attractions.**Important Update:** It has been announced that Handcar Tours will be permanently shut down on August 28th, 2025, due to litigation regarding the removal of the railroad line. The owners are exploring options to continue their mission at another location, and several handcars will be donated to a historic railroad.
Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



Explore More of Salinas Valley

Looking beyond Handcar Tours? Discover Salinas Valley for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.

Explore Salinas Valley

Select Currency