+44 203 026 1075
Big Sur California Coast McWay Falls opt from Monterey Carmel
Monterey, US
97% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
-
Duration 5 hours
-
Private transportation
-
Air-conditioned vehicle
-
Stops at McWay Falls
-
Guided in English and Spanish
-
Parking fees included
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the California coast with the Big Sur McWay Falls California Coast One Day tour from Monterey Carmel. This private charter excursion allows you to explore one of the most scenic areas in the U.S. at your own pace. With a knowledgeable local driver guide and a comfortable SUV, you'll have the freedom to stop at all the places you've always wanted to see, including Monterey, Big Sur, Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and of course, the iconic McWay Falls. This is not your typical group tour – it's a personalized adventure tailored just for you. Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey along the stunning California coastline.
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
4 hours
-
Instant Confirmation
-
Available in English, Spanish; Castilian
-
Mobile voucher
-
Private Tour
-
Guided
-
Family friendly
Please wait, fetching options!
Featured Reviews
Viator
Aug 24
We stayed in Monterey for a few days during the 2nd week in August. The temps were cool, in the 60’s and the skies were clear everyday without rain. There was some fog in the morning due to the cold pacific water, but it burned off by about noon. We started our drive down the Pacific Coast highway on a Monday morning with our first stop at Carmel. We drove through town and saw lots of high end shops and restaurants and continued on until we got to Carmel’s beach. We stopped and took a short walk on the beach which was very nice. One of the famous golf courses could be seen to the right in the distance. I believe it was the Pebble Beach course. We took a few photos and then continued our drive.
Our next stop was Point Lobos State Park. The parking lots were full by late morning so we could not drive in to the park. We then decided to park our car out on the road and we then walked in. We stopped at the ranger station at the park entrance to get a park map. The walk turned into a hike of over a mile by the time we reached an ocean overlook area. But it was worth it. Below in the kelp we saw sea otters. Off in the distance in the ocean we could see some whales spouting and one eventually breached. It was quite a sight. We stayed for about 45 minutes viewing the otters and whales before hiking back to our car. Point Lobos is a must see place along the way.
We drove over the Bixby Bridge without stopping. There were few if any parking spots along the road there and I had seen enough photos of it already.
We continued on until we saw the beautiful turquoise water of Garapata beach. We pulled into the on road parking area and took the short walk down to the beach. The color of the water there is a bright turquoise and with the clear sky we had and bright sunshine, it looked beautiful. We took off our shoes and walked through the sand until we reached the water which we quickly found to be very cold. We admired the beach for about a half hour before we headed back to our car and continued our drive south. There are some twists and sharp corners on the PCH, so there needs to be some very good and steady concentration by the driver as some areas have shear drop offs.
Our next stop was at the restaurant Nepenthe for lunch. Nepenthe is perched on a hillside about 800 ft. above the Pacific Ocean. The views from most of their seating is fantastic. We chose to sit outside because of the beautiful weather we had that day. The food is pricey and for the most part not very fancy, but good quality. If I went again, I would ask for seating on the railing so I would be directly facing the view of the ocean.
We enjoyed a leisurely late lunch. We now headed south again for a short drive to McWay Falls in Julia Pfieffer State Park. Parking there costs $10 for a car, however, there was no attendant. It is an honor system where you fill out a form and envelope and self pay by cash. The envelope is placed in a pay box. There is a short walk from the parking area to a viewing overlook. You are not allowed to go down to the beach where the falls exit the rocks. It is a great view and also a great photo opportunity spot.
It was now late afternoon when we headed back to our car. They was no point in journeying any further south as the road had been washed out by a mud slide in 2023. So we headed back north on PCH. The north to south drive is a little less stressful since we were no longer on the outside lane near the shear drop offs.
It was a great day and a nice drive back to Monterey.
Viator
Aug 24
Carlos picked us up at our hotel and gave us a wonderful tour from the Inn at Spanish Bay to the Redwood Forest (last stop). Took a quick side trip to a gorgeous and "off the beaten path" beach that was reminiscent of a beach I visited in Kaui. He was a wonderful conversationalist and the Big Sur tour was our favorite excursion. Highly recommend Carlos! Thanks Carlos!!!
Viator
Aug 24
Great opportunity to self tour with a driver. This wasn’t a tour with much explanation but a great way to see Big Sur area without driving yourself.
Carlos our driver was great
Viator
Aug 24
Carlos was awesome. We highly recommend this trip. We learned a lot of new stuff. Great trip. We went on friday 2nd August 2024.
Viator
Aug 24
The views were amazing and our drive was beautiful entire way, we kept getting down from how nice and pretty every view of ocean and the water colour is amazing and like magic
0
/
0
Big Sur California Coast McWay Falls opt from Monterey Carmel
Explore the breathtaking Big Sur coast with a private 5-hour tour, featuring iconic spots like McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge.
Included
-
Private transportation -
Air-conditioned vehicle
-
Parking fees
-
Bixby bridge
Excluded
-
Lunch -
Gratuity
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
Air bnb, private residences.
What to expect
1
Big Sur
Going south past Point Lobos and Garrapata picture stop at Rocky Point, continue to Bixby Bridge then past Hurricane Point and Point Sur Lighthouse. Past River Inn continue to Nepenthe.
120 minutes
2
Bixby Bridge
This iconic single span concrete bridge built in the 1932 appears in many films and TV shows. Stops to take pictures of the bridge and the ocean.
15 minutes
Admission Included
3
Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Walk in the Redwoods, Nepenthe / Phoenix / Café Kevah refreshment stop, gazing at The Pacific Ocean. Most people make this the last stop before returning north. Option to add an hour to Henry Miller Library, and McWay Falls – you need good shoes. This is the southernmost point for the trip, about 37 miles south of Carmel. Most people make this the last stop before returning north. *Select 5 hour option to add McWay Falls, Julia Pfeiffer State Beach, Henry Miller library.
105 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
-
Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health -
Service animals allowed
-
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
-
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by California Pacific Excursions
What our experts say
-
Wear sturdy shoes for McWay Falls -
Try Nepenthe for stunning views
-
Bring a camera for Bixby Bridge
-
Visit Henry Miller Library nearby
-
Pack snacks, options are limited
More About this Experience
Introduction
Imagine embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime journey through one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the United States. Welcome to the Big Sur McWay Falls California Coast Tour! This 6-hour private charter excursion guarantees an unforgettable experience as you explore this iconic region in the comfort of a full-size SUV. Unlike typical group tours, this customized adventure allows you to delve into the sights and sounds of Monterey, Big Sur, Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and more at your own pace, making it truly exclusive and tailored to your preferences.What to expect?
Feast your eyes on awe-inspiring vistas as you venture through the Monterey Bay and the coastal wonders of Big Sur. This tour promises a total of 360 minutes of pure magic, whisking you away to some of the most picturesque spots in California. Marvel at the beauty of Point Lobos, the majesty of the Bixby Bridge, and the charismatic charm of Nepenthe. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and its majestic Coastal Redwoods. And of course, no visit would be complete without a stop at the enchanting McWay Falls, a hidden gem that cascades onto a pristine beach.Who is this for?
Calling all curious adventurers and nature enthusiasts! This tour caters to individuals who crave an intimate and immersive experience in one of nature's masterpieces. Whether you're a solo traveler seeking soul-soothing solitude, a couple in search of a romantic escapade, or a group of friends yearning for a unique journey together, the Big Sur McWay Falls California Coast tour is for you. It invites anyone with a passion for exploration and a deep appreciation for breathtaking landscapes to uncover the hidden treasures of this coastal wonderland.Why book this?
Embarking on this private charter expedition means immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of California's coast like never before. By choosing this tour, you'll have the freedom to design your own itinerary, stopping at exactly the places that pique your interest. No need to worry about missing out on any must-see spots or feeling rushed. This personalized experience allows you to savor every moment and capture the perfect photo to commemorate your adventure. With a local driver guide by your side, you'll gain valuable insights and fascinating stories about the region, enriching your journey and making it truly unforgettable.Good to know
Before setting off on this remarkable expedition, remember to wear comfortable footwear as you explore the McWay Falls viewpoint. Prepare to be captivated by the majesty of the falls for approximately an hour, ensuring you have the time to soak in every drop of natural splendor. Additionally, keep in mind that there is a parking fee at McWay Falls, so be sure to bring some cash with you. Finally, if you're enticed by literary history, don't miss the chance to visit the Henry Miller Library, a hidden gem nestled in the southern part of Big Sur. It offers a unique cultural experience for avid readers and history buffs alike.Reviews
Travelers who have experienced the Big Sur McWay Falls California Coast tour have been captivated by its unique charm and unparalleled beauty. They have praised the flexibility of the itinerary, allowing them to fully embrace the natural wonders at their own pace. Visitors have been awestruck by the iconic Bixby Bridge and its cinematic presence. The enchanting McWay Falls has left a lasting impression on explorers, who describe it as a hidden paradise. This tour not only takes you through stunning landscapes but also immerses you in the rich cultural and natural history of the area, creating memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Sorry, you just missed out!
This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is