Monterey and 17 Mile Drive: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental

If you’re dreaming of exploring California’s legendary coast without the fuss of a car or the exhaustion of traditional biking, a half-day electric bike tour around Monterey and 17 Mile Drive might just be the perfect adventure. While we haven’t personally joined this exact experience, the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries make it clear that this is a flexible, scenic, and memorable way to see some of California’s most iconic sights.

What truly makes this tour stand out are its spectacular coastal views, the chance to spot abundant wildlife, and the ease of pedal-assist that levels the playing field for most fitness levels. Plus, it hits all the highlights—from the famous Lone Cypress to the charming towns of Carmel and Pacific Grove.

One thing to consider: it’s a four-hour experience, which might sound like a lot, but it’s well-filled with interesting stops and scenic photo ops. If you’re someone who struggles on bikes or prefers more structured guided tours, this might not be the best fit. But for adventurous spirits looking for an authentic, active way to discover Monterey’s coastline, this e-bike tour offers fantastic value and flexibility.

This experience suits travelers who love outdoor activities, want a leisurely yet active way to explore, and appreciate scenic coastal landscapes. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy wildlife, beautiful vistas, and charming seaside towns.

Key Points

• Excellent value: At $55 per person, this tour offers a lot of scenic and cultural richness for a reasonable price.
• Flexible routes: You can ride back the same way or venture into Carmel for extra exploring.
• Wildlife spotting: Expect to see sea otters, seals, sea lions, and possibly deer along the way.
• Expert-guided experience: The knowledgeable guides, like those from Big Sur Adventures Inc, help enhance the trip with local insights.
• Ideal for active travelers: Suitable for those comfortable riding e-bikes at speeds up to 20 mph, with some traffic shared road sections.
• Weather considerations: Riding in light rain is optional, but heavier rain will likely lead to rescheduling or refunds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and Equipment

Your adventure begins with a pickup at a designated meeting point, which varies depending on your booking. You’ll be provided with a powerful electric bike, a helmet (which is required), a handlebar bag for essentials, and a detailed map. An instructional briefing ensures even beginners feel confident before hitting the road.

The Ride Up to 17 Mile Drive

After a brief safety talk, you’ll hop on your e-bike, and with pedal assist, start the ascent toward 17 Mile Drive. The electric boost makes climbing hills less daunting, allowing you to enjoy the scenery rather than feeling out of breath. The route takes you past Pebble Beach, famous for its golf courses and stunning vistas. Keep an eye out for deer grazing in the yards of some of the world’s most luxurious homes.

Scenic Stops Along the Coast

Your first major stop is Bird Rock, where sea lions splash in the surf and sunbathe on the rocks—be sure to bring your camera. Here, you’ll have access to public restrooms, making it an easy point to pause. Moving along, the bike path takes you through Spanish Bay, Point Joe, Restless Sea, and China Rock—each offering unique photo opportunities and panoramic views.

Next, at Fanshell Beach Overlook and Cypress Point Lookout, expect to see sea otters, harbor seals, and sea lions. Many visitors comment on how abundant the wildlife is, often with “splashing” and sunbathing animals adding a lively feel to the scenery.

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The Iconic Lone Cypress and Pescadero Point

One of the tour’s highlights is snapping a photo of the Lone Cypress, perched on a weathered outcrop and often considered one of the most photographed trees in North America. The guide, with local insights, can tell you about its history and why it’s such an enduring symbol of Pebble Beach.

Following this, a short walk takes you to Pescadero Point, home to the Ghost Trees—sculpted coastlines that look almost otherworldly and perfect for dramatic photos. Afterward, most groups head to Pebble Beach Lodge, where you can indulge in some food, use the restrooms, or browse souvenirs.

Optional Extension to Carmel

From the lodge, you have the choice to:

• Return the same way, enjoying the ride back with plenty of stops.
• Take a shortcut back to the starting point.
• Continue onward into Carmel-by-the-Sea for further exploration of its quaint streets, cottages, and scenic coastline.

Many reviews mention that the ride into Carmel adds a lovely, leisurely finish to the day, with some guides sharing local tips for cafes, shops, and scenic spots.

Ending the Tour

The experience concludes back at the meeting point, with the option to store your bike safely or purchase extras like additional batteries or gloves (especially appreciated in cooler months).

The Experience in Real Life

According to reviewers, this tour is a hit for its stunning vistas and wildlife sightings. Paul mentioned, “This is a must-do activity, the views are absolutely stunning,” emphasizing how the stops to admire the scenery are well-timed and never rushed. Sally appreciated the early start, which helped avoid traffic and crowds, making the ride more relaxed and enjoyable.

Many note the ease of the e-bikes, highlighting how they make the ride accessible without sacrificing the sense of adventure. Sharon pointed out that the $55 price offers great value compared to other local options, especially considering the quality of the bikes and guided experience.

Guides and Local Tips

While the specific guides’ names aren’t provided, reviews suggest they are knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful, offering insights into the history and ecology of the area. Having a guide who’s well-versed in local wildlife and scenery enhances the experience, giving riders context and interesting stories along the way.

Weather and Comfort

The tour is mostly outdoors and exposed, so dressing in layers is advised, especially since parts of the ride can be chilly or windy. Gloves are available for purchase, and some guides provide them if the weather is cool. Light rain doesn’t necessarily spoil the ride, but heavy rain will likely result in rescheduling or a full refund.

Practical Considerations

• The bikes are governed to 20 mph, but most riders find they cruise comfortably at 15-20 mph, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
• Shared road sections along Ocean View Boulevard are wide but require confidence in traffic.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 4 ft 8 in or those with limited biking experience.
• The four-hour duration is ideal for a relaxed yet comprehensive exploration, with options to extend into Carmel or return sooner.

Why This Tour Offers Excellent Value

For just $55, you’re getting a guided, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience on a powerful electric bike—a significant perk compared to traditional bicycle rentals or guided drives. The inclusion of helmets, handlebar bags, and optional locks further enhances convenience. If you’re someone who loves to combine activity with sightseeing, this experience packs a lot into a manageable half-day.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers seeking an authentic coastal experience without the stress of driving or strenuous cycling. It’s especially suitable for those who:

• Want a flexible, easy way to explore scenic spots
• Are comfortable riding electric bikes at moderate speeds
• Enjoy wildlife watching and natural landscapes
• Desire a balance between guided insights and free exploration
• Prefer a cost-effective way to see the highlights of Monterey and Pebble Beach

It’s less suited for people who are uncomfortable on bikes or those seeking a fully guided, narrated tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for children over 4 ft 8 in who are comfortable riding bikes, as the activity requires some biking confidence.

Can I extend the tour?
Extra time is available for an additional fee, allowing you to explore Carmel or extend your ride if desired.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, comfortable shoes, and layers for variable weather. Gloves are available for purchase if needed.

What happens in bad weather?
Riders can choose to go out in light rain, but if heavy rain (more than 1 cm forecast in 4 hours) is expected, the tour will be rescheduled or refunded.

Are the bikes easy to handle?
Yes, the bikes are designed with pedal assist, making rides smooth and manageable even for casual cyclists.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see sea otters, harbor seals, sea lions, and possibly deer along the route.

Can I ride into Carmel?
Yes, continuing into Carmel is an option, and many riders enjoy exploring its charming streets after the scenic drive.

Is there parking nearby?
While not detailed, the meeting point location might vary, so check your booking details for specifics.

Final Thoughts

A half-day electric bike tour of Monterey and 17 Mile Drive offers a truly engaging way to experience California’s coast. You’ll enjoy spectacular scenery, encounter local wildlife, and learn fun facts from knowledgeable guides—all while riding a comfortable, eco-friendly bike.

It strikes a good balance between adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers. The flexibility to extend into Carmel or return early adds to its appeal. At a reasonable price, this experience provides excellent value and a memorable coastal outing.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a scenic photography lover, or simply looking for a refreshing outdoor activity, this tour is worth considering for your Monterey itinerary. Just remember to dress in layers, bring your camera, and get ready to soak up some of California’s finest coastal views.

Summary

This electric bike tour around Monterey and 17 Mile Drive is an active, scenic, and wildlife-rich adventure that balances guided expertise with personal exploration. It’s perfect for those wanting to see the coast without the hassle of driving, and it offers good value for a memorable half-day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: