Monterey and Pacific Grove, nestled along the breathtaking California coast, offer a unique opportunity to explore their iconic landmarks and scenic beauty. The 2-hour GoCar tour provides a guided, GPS-driven adventure that allows visitors to discover these captivating destinations at their own pace. From the historic Cannery Row to the charming Fisherman’s Wharf, the tour promises an unforgettable blend of history, scenery, and an exhilarating mode of transportation. Whether you’re a solo traveler or part of a small group, this experience is designed to create lasting memories in this coastal paradise.
This experience made our article of The 3 Most Popular 2 Hour Tours In Monterey and Carmel.
Key Points
- A 2-hour guided sightseeing tour in Monterey and Pacific Grove, offering panoramic coastal views and exploring historic landmarks like Fisherman’s Wharf and Cannery Row.
- GPS-guided GoCar rental providing turn-by-turn navigation and a thrilling, self-paced adventure along the scenic California coastline.
- Priced at $149 per group (up to 2 passengers), with optional Collision Damage Waiver available.
- Suitable for drivers 18+ with a valid license, and passengers 7+ accompanied by an adult.
- Mixed customer reviews, with positive feedback on the scenic views and bonding experience, and some concerns about vehicle condition and GPS navigation.
Tour Overview
The Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour is a 2-hour guided sightseeing experience that allows visitors to explore the scenic coastal region in a unique, open-air, two-seat vehicle.
The tour departs from 230 Alvarado Street in Monterey, with the option for hotel pickup and drop-off. Priced at $149 per group (up to 2 passengers), the tour includes a GPS-guided GoCar rental, safety orientation, full tank of gas, helmet, map, and an optional Collision Damage Waiver.
Travelers can explore Fisherman’s Wharf, Lovers Point, Cannery Row, and other local landmarks without the need for maps, as the car provides navigation.
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Exploring Monterey and Pacific Grove
During the Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour, travelers are guided through a picturesque coastal region, taking in the sights and sounds of the area.
The tour navigates through Fisherman’s Wharf, showcasing the historic harbor and bustling seaside atmosphere. It then proceeds to Lover’s Point, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rocky shoreline.
Continuing, the tour explores the iconic Cannery Row, once home to the thriving sardine industry, and now a hub of shops, restaurants, and attractions.
The journey also includes stops at Lake El Estero, Asilomar State Beach, and the Monarch Grove butterfly sanctuary.
Highlights of the GoCar Experience
Aboard the nimble and lightweight GoCar, travelers embark on a GPS-guided tour that allows them to explore Monterey and Pacific Grove at their own pace.
The car provides turn-by-turn navigation to iconic destinations, including Fisherman’s Wharf, Lovers Point, and the Monarch Grove butterfly sanctuary. Passengers can take in the scenic coastal views and listen to the GoCar’s narration about the area’s history and landmarks.
The compact design of the GoCar enables maneuvering through crowded streets and finding parking spots easily. With a helmet and safety orientation, the GoCar experience offers a unique and thrilling way to discover the peninsula.
Participant Requirements and Accessibility
To participate in the Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour, drivers must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver’s license. Passengers must be at least 7 years old and accompanied by an adult. Vehicle height restrictions apply, with a maximum of 6 feet 3 inches. Liability waivers must be signed by all participants. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Public transportation options are available nearby.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Driver Age | 18+ years |
| Driver’s License | Valid |
| Passenger Age | 7+ years |
| Passenger Supervision | Adult required |
| Maximum Height | 6 ft 3 in (190 cm) |
| Liability Waiver | Required |
Customer Feedback and Ratings
The Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour has received a mix of customer feedback, with an average rating of 3.8 out of 5 stars across 46 reviews.
Positive feedback highlights the scenic views, unique experience, great customer service, and enjoyable bonding time.
However, some customers reported issues with the vehicle condition, such as broken mirrors and loud engines, as well as difficulties with the GPS navigation.
Plus, there were mixed reviews on the effectiveness of the GPS narration and the overall vehicle design.
The tour appears to offer a memorable adventure, though some improvements could enhance the customer experience.
Pricing and Booking Details
Although the Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour is priced at $149.00 per group (up to 2 passengers per car), customers must select one adult per car when booking.
The tour includes a GPS-guided GoCar rental, safety orientation, full tank of gas, helmet, map, and optional Collision Damage Waiver ($12.00 covers up to $500 in damages).
Confirmation is received at booking, but the tour is non-refundable. All renters must read, understand, and sign a liability release and waiver form.
The tour accommodates a maximum of 24 travelers and is not wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed.
Safety Considerations and Liability
Safety is a paramount concern for the Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour.
All drivers must be 18 or older with a valid license, and passengers must be at least 7 years old with adult supervision.
The tour has the following safety considerations:
- Helmets are provided and required for all participants.
- A comprehensive safety orientation is included to ensure proper operation of the GoCars.
- The maximum passenger height is 6 feet 3 inches, ensuring a comfortable and secure ride.
- Participants must sign a liability release and waiver form to acknowledge the risks involved.
Getting to the Meeting Point
Travelers can conveniently locate the meeting point for the Monterey and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour at 230 Alvarado Street in Monterey, California. The meeting point is situated in the heart of downtown Monterey, making it easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
| Transportation | Approximate Travel Time | Directions |
|---|---|---|
| Walking | 5-10 minutes | From nearby parking, follow signs to Alvarado Street. |
| Public Transit | 10-15 minutes | Take the MST bus or trolley to the Alvarado Street stop. |
| Driving | 5 minutes | Use GPS or maps to navigate to 230 Alvarado Street. |
| Taxi/Rideshare | 5 minutes | Request a ride to the meeting point address. |
| Parking | Varies | Utilize nearby public parking lots or garages. |
The centralized location ensures a smooth start to the GoCar adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Gopro Camera on the Tour?
Customers are generally allowed to bring their own GoPro cameras on the tour. However, the tour operator does not provide any additional mounting or stabilization equipment. Customers should ensure their camera is securely attached to avoid any potential damage or loss during the tour.
Do the Cars Have Built-In Speakers for the GPS Narration?
The GoCar vehicles come equipped with built-in speakers that play the GPS-enabled narration, providing travelers with a hands-free, guided tour experience. The cars are designed to deliver the tour narrative through the integrated sound system.
Can I Switch Drivers During the Tour With My Group?
The tour allows participants to switch drivers during the self-guided experience. However, all drivers must be at least 18 years old and present a valid driver’s license. Any driver change must be communicated to the tour operator.
What Happens if I Get Lost or the Car Breaks Down?
In the event a customer gets lost or the vehicle breaks down, the tour operator provides on-call support and assistance. This may involve sending a replacement car or providing directions to safely return to the starting point.
Is There a Minimum Number of People Required to Book the Tour?
The tour has no minimum number of people required to book. Customers can book the tour for themselves or as a group up to the maximum of 24 travelers per tour. Individual bookings and small groups are accepted.
The Sum Up
The GoCar tour offers a unique and thrilling way to explore the picturesque coastal towns of Monterey and Pacific Grove at your own pace. With its GPS-guided technology, stunning scenery, and iconic landmarks, this adventure provides an unforgettable experience for small groups seeking to enjoy the charm and history of this California destination.
📍 This experience made our list of the 3 best 2 Hour Tours in Monterey and Carmel
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