Private Big Sur & McWay Falls Tour from Monterey and Carmel
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9–10 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers of most fitness levels; expect short walks (under 1 mile) and some standing at overlooks
Overview
Drive one of America’s most scenic roadways on a private, door-to-door day tour from Monterey and Carmel. Visit Bixby Bridge, hike redwood trails at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and stand at the McWay Falls overlook where a waterfall meets the ocean.
Private Big Sur & McWay Falls Tour from Monterey and Carmel
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The van peels away from Monterey’s harbor with the Pacific on the passenger side, salt spray on the air like a promise. Highway 1 immediately becomes a ribbon of cliff-hugging asphalt — windows down, camera ready — and the rhythm of the coast sets the pace. Over nine hours the private tour stitches together the iconic markers of the central California coast: Cannery Row and Point Lobos, the graceful arc of Bixby Bridge, the forested hush of Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, and McWay Falls, where an 80-foot stream throws itself into the ocean.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Expect winding coastal driving
State Route 1 is narrow with sharp turns—sit on the ocean side to see the best views and avoid motion-sickness triggers.
Layer up for rapidly changing weather
Fog and sun can alternate within minutes; bring a lightweight windbreaker and a warm mid-layer.
Limited parking at overlooks
Arrive early in the day or rely on your private guide to secure pullout spots; busy weekends fill viewpoints quickly.
Respect fragile coastal areas
Stay on signed paths and don’t attempt to reach McWay Falls beach — it’s closed to protect the cliff ecosystem and visitor safety.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sea otters
- Seasonal gray whales (winter–spring migration)
History
The Big Sur corridor sits on lands historically used by the Ohlone and Esselen peoples; later, Highway 1 and early 20th-century tourism shaped the road network visitors use today.
Conservation
Big Sur’s coastal terraces and redwood groves are ecologically sensitive—stay on marked trails, limit drone use, and pack out all waste to protect plant and marine life.
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Adventure Hotspots in Monterey
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered clothing
Quick-dry base layer, fleece, and windproof shell for coastal fog and sun shifts.
Sturdy walking shoes
Support and grip for short trails, beach sand, and uneven overlooks.
Camera with extra battery
Long lenses and batteries help capture distant whales, seals, and sweeping coastal views.
Daypack with water and snacks
Keeps you comfortable during free time and short hikes without relying on roadside vendors.