Morning Bliss: The 17-Mile Drive

As the sun rises over the Monterey Peninsula, casting a golden hue over the rugged coastline, there’s no better way to start your day than with a leisurely exploration of the iconic 17-Mile Drive. This scenic route, renowned for its breathtaking vistas and storied landmarks, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. With the weather promising partly cloudy skies and a gentle breeze, the conditions are ideal for a morning ride.

Embark on this journey from downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, where your guide will lead you through the enchanting landscapes of Pebble Beach. As you pedal along, you’ll encounter the majestic Lone Cypress, standing resilient against the elements, and the hauntingly beautiful Ghost Tree, offering panoramic views of Point Lobos and Carmel Bay. The tour, available from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM, provides ample time to soak in the sights and sounds of this coastal paradise.

“Fun and Interesting! - Fun couple hours exploring the Pebble Beach area. Our guide, Leslie was great and knowledgeable. Sharing a number of interesting facts about the area.” (Reviewed at: 2025-04-14)

For those seeking a more leisurely pace, the tour also includes stops at Bird Rock Vista Point, where playful sea lions frolic in the surf, and Fanshell Overlook, a prime spot for observing the charming sea otters. With the wind gently tousling your hair and the scent of the ocean in the air, this e-bike adventure is a delightful way to embrace the coastal breeze.

Afternoon Indulgence: Wine Tasting in a Vintage VW

As the afternoon sun casts its warm glow over the vineyards of Monterey, it’s time to indulge in a quintessential Californian experience: a wine tasting tour in a vintage 1970 VW bus. This unique journey, available from 12:30 PM to 5:00 PM, invites you to savor the region’s finest wines while traversing the picturesque landscapes of Carmel and Monterey.

Begin your adventure in the charming village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, where fairy tale cottages and quaint boutiques set the stage for an unforgettable afternoon. Here, you’ll sample award-winning wines from local vintners, each sip offering a taste of the region’s rich terroir. As you continue your journey, the scenic drive down Carmel Valley Road reveals a tapestry of rolling hills and lush vineyards, culminating in a visit to a renowned tasting room in historic downtown Monterey.

“Great Ride for some Wonderful Wine! - My husband and I had a wonderful time touring three tasting rooms with Steve! We were lucky in that we were the only ones on the tour that afternoon. All of the tasting rooms offered local wines, so we decided to join one wine club and ship bottles from the other two.” (Reviewed at: 2024-11-10)

With each stop, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the art of winemaking, as knowledgeable guides share insights into the history and craftsmanship behind each bottle. The vintage VW bus, a symbol of carefree exploration, adds a touch of nostalgia to this indulgent experience, making it a must-do for wine enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Evening Serenity: Sunset Strolls and Culinary Delights

As the day draws to a close, the vibrant hues of the sunset paint the sky in shades of pink and orange, creating a serene backdrop for an evening of relaxation and culinary exploration. With the sun setting at 8:24 PM, there’s plenty of time to unwind and savor the flavors of Monterey’s diverse dining scene.

Stroll along Cannery Row, where the echoes of its storied past as a bustling sardine canning district blend seamlessly with the modern allure of boutique shops and gourmet restaurants. Here, you can indulge in a sumptuous seafood feast, featuring the freshest catches from the Pacific Ocean, or explore the culinary delights of an authentic Italian kitchen, where handmade pasta and rich sauces transport you to the heart of Tuscany.

For those seeking a more intimate experience, the quaint French cafés of Carmel-by-the-Sea offer a cozy setting for a glass of wine and a decadent dessert, the perfect way to end a day of exploration and indulgence. As you sip your wine and savor each bite, the gentle murmur of the ocean and the cool evening breeze create a symphony of sensory delights, leaving you with memories to cherish long after the weekend has passed.