The Smartphone Driving Tour between Santa Maria and Monterey Big Sur offers a unique way to explore California’s stunning coastline. Priced affordably at $11.99 per group, this self-guided experience allows travelers to start whenever they’re ready, without time constraints. While reviews mention mixed experiences with navigation and customer service, the tour’s engaging content keeps many visitors coming back. Whether you’re seeking a flexible road trip or hoping to discover hidden gems along the Pacific Coast Highway, this smartphone-powered tour could be worth a closer look.
Key Points
- A self-guided, flexible driving tour between Santa Maria and Monterey Big Sur, accessible anytime with a single booking.
- Priced at $11.99 per group, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
- Requires a good mobile or WiFi connection for initial download, but no signal or data usage during the tour.
- Accessible for most travelers, including those with service animals, strollers, and wheelchairs.
- Tour has received mixed reviews, with some positive feedback on content but issues with navigation and customer service.
Tour Overview
The Smartphone Driving Tour between Santa Maria and Monterey Big Sur offers a flexible and self-guided experience.
Travelers can start the tour from either Santa Maria or Monterey, with specific starting points provided. The tour is accessible anytime, and only one booking is needed per vehicle.
Travelers can start the tour from either Santa Maria or Monterey, with specific starting points provided. The tour is accessible anytime, and only one booking is needed per vehicle.
While the recommended attractions may be subject to seasonal closures or other uncontrollable factors, the tour provides a convenient way to explore the scenic route at your own pace.
The tour is designed to work with a good mobile or WiFi connection, and service animals, strollers, and wheelchairs are accommodated.
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Pricing and Booking
The Smartphone Driving Tour between Santa Maria and Monterey Big Sur is priced from $11.99 per group (up to 15 people).
This flexible tour is available anytime through Tripvia Tours. Guests can reserve now and pay later. There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
The tour starts at either Santa Maria or Monterey, and only one booking is needed per vehicle. Guests should ensure they’ve a good mobile or WiFi connection for the initial download, as no signal or data is used during the tour.
Accessibility and Requirements
Smartphone Driving Tour between Santa Maria and Monterey Big Sur is accessible for most travelers. A good mobile or WiFi connection is needed for the initial download, but no signal or data is used during the tour. Service animals are allowed, and the tour is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
| Accessibility | Requirement |
|—————|————-|
| Service Animals Allowed | Smartphone with Download |
| Stroller Accessible | Wifi or Mobile Connection |
| Wheelchair Accessible | – |
| Most Travelers Can Participate | – |
The tour is a private experience just for your group. No time constraints – take as long as you’d like to complete the self-guided drive.
Meeting Points and Duration
The meeting point for the Santa Maria starting location is Betteravia Road & U.S. 101 Business in Santa Maria, California.
The meeting point for the Santa Maria starting location is Betteravia Road & U.S. 101 Business in Santa Maria, California.
This driving tour is available any time between 7/28/2020 and 10/28/2025, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Travelers can start the tour whenever they’re ready, as there are no time constraints.
The tour allows travelers to take as long as they like to complete the experience.
This flexible scheduling means you can explore the scenic route between Santa Maria and Monterey Big Sur at your own pace, without feeling rushed.
Reviews and Feedback
While the Smartphone Driving Tour between Santa Maria and Monterey Big Sur has received 4 reviews with a rating of 3.0 on Viator and Tripadvisor, the feedback provides a mixed perspective.
The reviews highlight some positive aspects, such as the tour’s good content.
However, issues have been reported, including:
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Poor navigational assistance
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Problems with the download link
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Unresponsive customer service
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One of the key considerations for this Smartphone Driving Tour is how well the navigational assistance guides travelers along the route.
While the tour provides an initial download, users report mixed experiences with the in-tour navigation. Some found the directions clear and helpful, while others struggled with inaccurate prompts or felt the app lacked sufficient guidance.
Maintaining a strong mobile or WiFi connection is crucial, as the tour relies on the device’s GPS.
Highlights and Must-See Attractions
Though the route covers a vast and diverse landscape, travelers are treated to a wealth of stunning natural attractions and historic sites along the way.
Key highlights include:
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Iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, an architectural marvel perched above a dramatic coastal canyon.
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Ventana Wilderness, featuring awe-inspiring redwood forests and hiking trails perfect for nature enthusiasts.
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Hearst Castle, the opulent 165-room mansion built by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst.
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Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, home to a breathtaking 80-foot waterfall cascading into a turquoise pool.
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Elephant Seal Rookery, where visitors can witness the lumbering, blubbery creatures in their natural habitat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Stop for Food and Restrooms During the Tour?
Yes, you can stop for food and restrooms during the tour. The tour is self-guided, so you’re free to take breaks and explore as needed. Just be mindful of the time and make sure to complete the full tour route.
What if I Need to Make an Unplanned Stop Along the Way?
The tour is flexible, so you can make unplanned stops along the way. Just keep in mind that recommended attractions may be closed or inaccessible due to factors beyond the tour’s control. Enjoy your leisurely drive at your own pace.
Is There an Option for a Guided Tour Instead of Self-Driving?
The tour is self-guided, so there isn’t an option for a guided tour. However, you can stop and explore whenever you like during the drive. The tour provides flexibility to customize your experience.
Can I Customize the Route to Visit Specific Attractions?
You can customize the route to visit specific attractions. The tour provides flexibility, allowing you to stop at points of interest along the way at your own pace without being constrained to a fixed itinerary.
How Often Is the Tour Content and Information Updated?
The tour content and information are typically updated by the tour provider on an annual basis to ensure the recommended attractions and details remain current. However, it’s always a good idea to check for any last-minute changes before starting the tour.
The Sum Up
The Smartphone Driving Tour between Santa Maria and Monterey Big Sur offers a flexible, immersive experience along California’s stunning coastline. While navigational assistance and customer service have received mixed reviews, the engaging content and ability to explore at one’s own pace make this tour a great option for travelers seeking a self-guided adventure. With affordable pricing and convenient accessibility, it’s an enticing choice for those looking to discover the beauty of the Pacific Coast.
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