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Home/USA/California/Monterey & Carmel/Big Sur

Unforgettable Big Sur Coastal Adventures

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Big Sur, where rugged cliffs meet the crashing Pacific waves. Experience world-class coastal scenery, iconic redwood forests, and stunning hiking trails through our curated selection of Big Sur adventures. Whether you are looking for a scenic driving tour, a guided nature walk, or a private luxury excursion, our experiences capture the essence of California's most dramatic coastline. From hidden coves to majestic landmarks, find the perfect Big Sur travel experience and start planning your unforgettable coastal escape today.

4.59/5 avg ratingFrom $14.24 per person16 unique experiences88% free cancellation

At a glance

Rating

Rating

4.59★ average

Based on 272 pooled reviews with ~90% positive sentiment

Tour Price

Tour Price

$34–$630 typical

Median price is $356, with a full range up to $1,175

Tour Length

Tour Length

3.6–11.5 hours

Median duration is 10.5 hours

Best Value

Best Value

Nature tours

Average 4.7★ at $281 per tour

Tour Type

Tour Type

69% private tours

Walking tours are the most common activity at 38%

Flexibility

Flexibility

88% free cancellation

100% of options offer instant confirmation

9 Products

Big Sur Sightseeing Tour

Big Sur Sightseeing Tour

3.3 hrsEco-FriendlyLikely to sell out
5 (10 reviews)
100%
0%
Very knowledgeableVery beautiful scenerynice
Viator
$248
Book now
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Big Sur Sightseeing Tour
Summary

What makes this Big Sur tour truly unique is our over 25 years of unparalleled expertise in guiding educational adventures through the majestic Monterey County, offering you a deep dive into the natural wonders of the Big Sur coast and fascinating insights into the ancient redwood trees that define ...

Inclusions
  • Local guide
Itinerary
  • Garrapata State Park
  • Bixby Bridge
  • Hurricane Point
  • Big Sur
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Good to know
  • Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Big Sur McWay Fall opt 4 or 5 Hour Private Tour from 1 - 12 ppl

Big Sur McWay Fall opt 4 or 5 Hour Private Tour from 1 - 12 ppl

4 hrsPrivate tourEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.85 (62 reviews)
93%
7%
amazingamazing viewsAmazing experience
Viator
$328
Book now
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Big Sur McWay Fall opt 4 or 5 Hour Private Tour from 1 - 12 ppl
Summary

See Big Sur from Monterey or Carmel on a private half-day tour with a local driver guide. Stop at Bixby Bridge, walk among coastal redwoods in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and choose the longer option to add McWay Falls or Henry Miller Library.

Inclusions
  • Bixby Bridge
  • Local driver guide
Exclusions
  • Gratuity
Itinerary
  • Big Sur
  • Bixby Bridge
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers 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
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Driving the California Coast: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Driving the California Coast: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

4.5 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
4.63 (19 reviews)
78.87%
21.13%
Really enjoyedIncredibly beautifulLove how
Viator
$15
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Driving the California Coast: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Summary

Experience a spectacular driving tour that follows Highway 1 to Big Sur, often called “the greatest meeting of land and water in the world.” You’ll be greeted by views of the Santa Lucia Mountains rising abruptly from the Pacific Ocean, in contrast with the jagged rock cliffs and churning seas. Th...

Inclusions
  • VoiceMap App for Android and iOS
  • Lifetime access to this tour in English
  • Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Exclusions
  • Food and drink
  • Smartphone and headphones
  • Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
  • Transportation
Itinerary
  • Garrapata State Park
  • Garrapata Creek Bridge
  • Notley's Landing viewpoint
  • Rocky Creek Bridge
  • Bixby Bridge
  • Andrew Molera State Park
  • Henry Miller Memorial Library
  • Partington Cove
Good to know
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Public transportation options are available nearby
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Big Sur Electric Bike Tour Along Old Coast Road

Big Sur Electric Bike Tour Along Old Coast Road

3 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.25 (12 reviews)
83.72%
16.28%
amazing viewsamazing guideAwesome e-bike ride
Viator
$175
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Big Sur Electric Bike Tour Along Old Coast Road
Summary

Discover one of the most scenic rides in the world on our electric bikes. Famous for its beauty, Big Sur offers the ultimate experience to explore California's Central Coast. On this guided tour, we will meet at the start of the Old Coast Road, on Highway 1 directly across the entrance to the Andr...

Inclusions
  • helmet
Itinerary
  • Andrew Molera State Park
  • Old Coast Road
  • Andrew Molera State Park
  • Big Sur
  • Point Sur State Historic Park
Good to know
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1

16 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
5 (9 reviews)
95.24%
4.76%
Highly recommendawesomeMade the drive enjoyable
Viator
$20
Book now
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Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Big Sur PCH Highway 1
Summary

GuideAlong's Audio Tour takes you on an incredible self-guided journey along this scenic 130 mile stretch of California’s coast. Along the way you'll be guided to all of the area's famous highlights as well as lessor known gems including towering Redwood trees, an elephant seal observation deck, and...

Inclusions
  • Support: Toll free phone, chat and email
  • Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline
  • Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF
  • Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay
  • Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates
  • GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 170 Points
  • Includes an app based self-guided experience, so you do not need any in-person guide.
  • Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own
Exclusions
  • Entry Fees, National Park Passes, Reservations
Itinerary
  • Big Sur
  • Bixby Bridge
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
  • Hearst Castle
  • McWay Falls
  • Morro Bay
  • Pfeiffer Beach
  • Point Lobos
  • Elephant Seal Vista Point
Good to know
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels, How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time., Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account., Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour., Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips., Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date., Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule., Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore., Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline., Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged., Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email., ⚠️ Important Update: Highway 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) is currently closed between Big Sur and Ragged Point due to ongoing repairs from the Regent’s Slide. This 6.8-mile section is impassable. For the latest updates, please visit the Caltrans site., The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California

Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California

3 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
3.71 (7 reviews)
67.74%
32.26%
Lovely sceneryPERFECT dayAMAZING
Viator
$35
Book now
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Half Day Private Big Sur Driving Tour in California
Summary

World class private tour, completely controlled by you! Embark on an unforgettable adventure along the stunning Big Sur coastline with our exhilarating driving tour! Feel the ocean breeze caress your face as you journey through breathtaking cliffs, winding roads, and towering redwood forests. Explo...

Inclusions
  • Free navigation and Smartphone Guide
  • Pintours App Guide
Itinerary
  • Bixby Bridge
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
Good to know
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, 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
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Big Sur's Old Coast Road eBike Tour

Big Sur's Old Coast Road eBike Tour

3 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellationLikely to sell out
5 (3 reviews)
100%
0%
highly recommendgreat timeAmazing experience
Viator
$225
Book now
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Big Sur's Old Coast Road eBike Tour
Summary

Looking for a little backcountry adventure with gorgeous views? Take an e-bike ride with us on the Old Coast Road Tour! From panoramic ocean views to the enchanted redwood forest, experience Big Sur on the pioneer’s wagon road. What once was a road for horses and wagons has evolved into a rough 4x...

Inclusions
  • Use of helmet
Itinerary
  • Pacific Coast Highway
  • Andrew Molera State Park
  • Old Coast Road
  • Point Sur State Historic Park
  • Point Sur Light Station
  • Big Sur
Good to know
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Not for riders over 250 lb., Riders over 180 lb must be able to pedal a bike.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Pacific Coast Highway Big Sur Monterey to San Luis Obispo Tour

Pacific Coast Highway Big Sur Monterey to San Luis Obispo Tour

11 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
0
Viator
$15$17
Book now
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Pacific Coast Highway Big Sur Monterey to San Luis Obispo Tour
Summary

Drive the Pacific Coast Highway from Monterey to San Luis Obispo with a tour that plays from your phone as the coast unfolds. Choose when to start, where to stop, and how long to stay at each stop. Experience the dramatic beauty of Big Sur, one of California’s most iconic coastal regions, as you fo...

Inclusions
  • Pause, rewind, or replay anytime
  • Lifetime access after purchase
  • Built-in turn-by-turn route guidance
  • Self-paced experience with no fixed start time
  • Storytelling based on firsthand travel and research
  • GPS-triggered audio with automatic playback at each stop
  • Offline access after download
Exclusions
  • Private Transportation
  • Parking Fees
  • Entrance Fees
  • Meals & Refreshments
Itinerary
  • Garrapata State Park
  • Rocky Creek Bridge
  • Bixby Bridge
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
  • Henry Miller Memorial Library
  • Partington Cove
  • Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
  • Big Creek Cove Vista Point
  • Limekiln State Park
  • Sand Dollar Beach
  • Salmon Creek Falls Trail
  • Ragged Point
  • Elephant Seal Vista Point
  • Hearst Castle
  • Moonstone Beach
  • Cambria
  • Harmony
  • Estero Bluffs State Park
  • Cayucos State Beach
  • Morro Rock
  • Tidelands Park
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Transportation options are wheelchair accessible, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Travelers must have a smartphone compatible with the Shaka Guide app., The app must be downloaded and the tour redeemed before arrival., Strong Wi-Fi or cellular data is required to download the tour in advance., Location services (GPS) must be enabled on the device, Travelers are responsible for securing any required entrance passes, reservations, or permits before starting, The tour can be driven in either direction: northbound or southbound., Bathroom stops and restaurant recommendations are included along the route., Check road conditions before departing, as Highway 1 closures can occur due to landslides, storms, or wildfires.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Private Tour Big Sur McWay Falls California Coast

Private Tour Big Sur McWay Falls California Coast

9.3 hrsPrivate tour
0
Viator
$1,028
Book now
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Private Tour Big Sur McWay Falls California Coast
Summary

Experience our Private Excursion tailored exclusively for you! Embark on a serene journey through the picturesque landscapes of USA as you make your way to the heart of the city. Upon your arrival, meet your seasoned tour guide, ready to lead you on an enchanting tour of Big Sur McWay Falls Califor...

Inclusions
  • Pick up and drop off at the hotel
  • Modern, air-conditioned private transportation
  • Professional local tour guide
  • 1 hour of free time for walk
Exclusions
  • Entrance fees
Itinerary
  • Monterey
  • Monterey
  • Big Sur
  • Bixby Bridge
  • Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
  • McWay Falls
  • Monterey
  • Monterey
Good to know
  • Specialized infant seats are available, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Please note that the tour route and duration in the city are subject to traffic conditions, special events, and other circumstances beyond our control. Regrettably, we cannot provide refunds if the tour duration must be adjusted due to any of the aforementioned factors.
Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Pairs well with

Landmarks travelers visit on the same route as Big Sur.

Bixby Bridge
Learn more

Bixby Bridge

14 km away • from $15

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve
Learn more

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

30 km away • from $20

Carmel Mission
Learn more

Carmel Mission

32 km away • from $7.03

Sunset Cultural Center
Learn more

Sunset Cultural Center

33 km away • from $159

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting.

If you are looking for more intimacy, the majority of the options we compare, which is 62%, are private tours. This makes Big Sur a particularly strong destination for those seeking personalized experiences rather than large group settings.

Prices vary significantly depending on the level of exclusivity, but most tours range from $31–$268. Across the various booking platforms we check, the typical spread can go from about $17 to $797.

The feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.72★ based on 104 pooled reviews across booking platforms. Travelers frequently describe the experiences as breathtaking and fantastic, often noting the wonderful views.

You should expect to dedicate anywhere from 3 to 11 hours to your activity. The median duration for the options we compare is about 3 hours.

Flexibility is common here, as 75% of the tours we compare offer free cancellation. Additionally, all of the options listed provide instant confirmation, which is helpful for last-minute planning.

Yes, a notable portion of the listings, roughly 38%, are tagged as eco-friendly. This is a significant share for the region, catering to travelers looking to minimize their environmental impact.

Most of the tours we compare are offered in English, though some options are also available in Spanish.

Cell service is extremely limited. Download offline maps and print physical directions before you enter the area.

Check the Caltrans website regularly. Landslides often cause closures, so plan your route and check for detours.

Options are limited and expensive. Plan to eat in Carmel or Monterey, or pack plenty of snacks and water.

Bixby Bridge14.1kmPfeiffer Big Sur State Park27.9kmPoint Lobos State Natural Reserve29.7kmCarmel Mission31.9kmSunset Cultural Center32.9kmDennis the Menace Park37.1kmMonterey Fisherman’s Wharf37.8kmCannery Row39km17-Mile Drive39.3kmMonterey Bay Aquarium39.6kmAsilomar State Beach40.5kmLovers Point Park40.7km
Monterey Whale Watching17-Mile DriveMonterey Self-Guided Walking Tour