Explore Monterey with GoCar Tours | Monterey Sea Car Tours - Salinas

Explore Monterey with GoCar Tours | Monterey Sea Car Tours

Salinaseasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; relaxed physical effort required as driving is the main activity.

Overview

Discover Monterey’s stunning coast with GoCar Tours, a unique and engaging way to explore the city at your own pace. Perfect for families and couples, this fun self-driven adventure is a must while visiting California’s central coast.

Details

Monterey, California, located on the picturesque central coast of the United States, is known for its breathtaking coastline and rich marine life. A favorite way to experience this coastal gem is with GoCar Tours | Monterey Sea Car Tours, offering a unique, self-guided adventure through the city’s scenic routes. This innovative tour combines the freedom of a personal vehicle with the convenience of guided storytelling via an easy-to-use tablet, making it perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers eager to explore Monterey at their own pace. Unlike traditional tours, GoCar’s fleet of two-seater, GPS-enabled GoCars empowers visitors to hop on and off while uncovering the city’s most iconic spots.

The tour runs through famous coastal landmarks including the famed 17-Mile Drive, with stunning views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and the renowned Pebble Beach golf course. Riders will pass by the historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf, dense pine forests, and charming seaside neighborhoods. The GoCar’s design fits the area perfectly, balancing the excitement of open-air driving with safety and ease for all ages.

Monterey residents’ open and friendly attitude toward these small tour vehicles adds to the experience, making exploration smooth and welcoming. The option between gas and electric GoCars adds a customizable touch — the electric model offers a quieter ride with a covered top, while the gas model provides a true open-air adventure.

Besides stunning natural viewpoints, the city’s rich history as a former Spanish capital and its thriving marine ecosystem enhance the ride. Visitors witness Monterey Bay’s coastal beauty, known for its kelp forests and diverse wildlife. GoCar Tours stands out by providing a fun, interactive way to absorb Monterey’s charm – whether it’s a leisurely family outing or a unique date activity. This adventure makes it easy to discover favorite local gems, adding an unforgettable twist to a classic California road trip.

Adventure Tips

Follow Road Rules Carefully

GoCars are street-legal vehicles and follow the same traffic laws as cars; always drive safely and be alert.

Wear Comfortable Clothing

Dressing in layers helps keep you comfortable through Monterey’s varying coastal weather.

Use Provided Audio Guides

The tablet guide offers detailed narration and route directions to maximize your experience.

Plan for Hopping On and Off

Taking time to stop at scenic points and attractions makes the adventure more rewarding.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Visit the lesser-known scenic lookout at Bird Rock near Pacific Grove
  • Explore quiet beach coves south of Carmel for peaceful stops

Wildlife

  • Sea otters along the rocky shorelines
  • California sea lions basking near the waterfront

History

Monterey served as the capital of Alta California under both Spain and Mexico before becoming part of the United States, with rich maritime and cultural heritage reflected in its architecture and museums.

Conservation

Local efforts prioritize marine protection within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, encouraging sustainable tourism to preserve delicate ecosystems for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Late afternoon
Overcast midday

Best Viewpoints

  • 17-Mile Drive scenic overlooks
  • Old Fisherman’s Wharf
  • Lovers Point Park

What to Photograph

Coastal cliffs and ocean
Historic wharf structures
Marine wildlife such as sea otters

Recommended Gear

Sunglasses

Essential

Protect your eyes from glare during sunny coastal drives.

summer specific

Layered Clothing

Essential

Monterey’s coastal weather changes quickly, so layers keep you comfortable.

Comfortable Shoes

Wear shoes suited for walking when hopping off to explore viewpoints.

Portable Phone Charger

Keep your phone powered for photos and communication throughout the tour.

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