17-Mile Drive Electric Bike Guided Tour

If you’re considering a way to see the iconic 17-Mile Drive without the usual traffic and crowds, this electric bike tour from Carmel could be just what you need. We’ve read plenty of reviews and detailed descriptions, and it seems like a solid choice for those wanting a relaxed, engaging experience in one of California’s most stunning coastal areas.

What really catches our eye about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who bring the scenery to life, and the ease of the electric bikes, making it accessible even for those who aren’t seasoned cyclists. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this tour runs in a small group of no more than 10 people, which some might find a little limiting if they prefer larger, more social groups. But overall, this experience seems well-suited for outdoor lovers, photography fans, and anyone eager to combine sightseeing with a bit of adventure—and without the hassle of parking or big tour buses.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience and better interaction with the guide.
• Electric bikes make covering the 17-Mile Drive’s hills and long stretches easy and fun.
• Multiple stops at iconic landmarks and scenic viewpoints deepen your understanding of the area.
• Free time at Pebble Beach allows for relaxed exploration, photos, or a quick snack.
• Expert guides provide helpful insights and keep the group together, enhancing the overall experience.
• Price point of $75 per person offers good value considering the included equipment, guide, and access to stunning views.

What to Expect from the Tour

This guided electric bike tour is designed to give you a more intimate way to explore the famous 17-Mile Drive and Pebble Beach. Starting in Carmel-by-the-Sea, you’ll meet at a central location—Mad Dogs & Englishmen Bike Shop & Coffee Bar—easy to find and close to public transportation options. From there, your guide will lead you along the winding route, sharing stories and facts about the area, all while you enjoy a smooth ride on your e-bike.

The tour lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, which is a decent amount of time to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The small group size (up to 10 travelers) means you’ll get more personal attention, and your guide can tailor the experience a bit to your interests or pace.

The Itinerary and Stops: Highlights and Insights

Stop 1: 17-Mile Drive

Your journey kicks off with a visit to one of North America’s most renowned golf resorts, Pebble Beach Golf Links. This is a key highlight, not only for golf fans but also for anyone who appreciates beautifully maintained landscapes. The tour includes admission tickets to the area, so you’ll have time to admire the course and take photos without the hassle of organizing entry separately.

What’s special: We loved the way the guide contextualizes the golf course’s history, making it more than just a pretty view. As one review highlights, “Our guide Brian led us on a great tour. He was informative and made sure our group stayed together.” The familiarity and friendliness of guides like Brian or Leslie (mentioned in reviews) really boost the experience.

Stops at Scenic Viewpoints and Landmarks

Spanish Bay

A quick stop at Spanish Bay offers sweeping views and a chance to snap some photos. It’s also home to many restaurants and a world-famous golf course. The short stop (about five minutes) is enough for a quick look and perhaps a photo or two.

Point Joe and China Rock

These stops take you to rugged coastlines and ancient granite formations, formed 65 million years ago. The history here is fascinating—shipwrecks and early Chinese settlers are part of the stories your guide will share. The information boards at Point Joe give some context, and the views are impressive.

Bird Rock Vista Point & Seal Rock Creek Beach

Expect to see sea lions playing and learn about local wildlife from your guide. These stops are ideal for wildlife enthusiasts or anyone wanting to relax and enjoy nature’s antics.

Fanshell Overlook & Cypress Point Lookout

If the season permits, you might spot sea otters at these lookouts. The Cypress Point Lookout offers the chance to see Point Sur Lighthouse on a clear day—a real bonus for those with a keen eye or interest in lighthouses.

Crocker Grove & Lone Cypress

These stops highlight the oldest Monterey Cypress trees, with the Lone Cypress being a symbol of Pebble Beach since 1919, even appearing as the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links logo. The guide will share stories about their history and environmental challenges.

Ghost Tree and Pebble Beach Golf Links

The Ghost Tree offers breathtaking views of Point Lobos and Carmel Bay. The final stop at Pebble Beach Golf Links is the longest—around 30 minutes—giving you time to explore, take photos, or grab a snack. Many reviews rave about the stunning scenery here and the chance to sit back and just soak it all in.

What’s Included and What You Should Budget For

Your $75 price covers the use of an electric bike, a helmet, and access to parking and facilities. The tour also includes admission fees to various sites, so you won’t be caught off guard by extra costs. You’ll have ample opportunity to enjoy the scenery at your own pace during the Pebble Beach stop, which is perfect for snapping photos or just relaxing.

What’s not included: Personal expenses like snacks, souvenirs, or extra drinks need to be paid for separately. The tour provides a relaxed environment, so you might want to bring a small backpack with water, sunscreen, or a camera.

The Experience from the Traveler’s Perspective

Based on reviews, it seems like the guides are a major highlight. Multiple travelers call out Leslie and Brian for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer notes, “Leslie was knowledgeable about the scenery and the bikes,” and others mention how fun and engaging she made the experience.

Many reviewers also appreciate how easy the e-bikes make covering the route. For someone worried about hills or fatigue, the electric assist offers a way to enjoy the scenery comfortably. As one person put it, “The bikes were well maintained. Leslie was friendly and very informative. The route was beautiful.”

The scenic stops are consistently praised for their breathtaking views. From the Lone Cypress to Pebble Beach Golf Links, the variety of landscapes keeps the ride interesting and photo-worthy. The flexibility of having free time at Pebble Beach is a bonus, allowing visitors to explore or relax on their own.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed yet scenic experience that avoids the crowds of self-driving or big bus tours. It appeals to outdoor enthusiasts, photography lovers, and anyone interested in learning about the area from a friendly guide. If you’re comfortable on a bike and looking for a fun way to see the coast without the physical strain, this is a great pick.

It’s particularly well-suited to couples, small groups, or friends traveling together. The small group size and guided format also make it accessible for those with limited cycling experience or who prefer a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comfortable, scenic way to explore one of California’s most famous coastlines, this electric bike tour offers a compelling combination of stunning views, expert guidance, and the convenience of small-group travel. The ride itself is smooth and accessible, making it appealing whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a newcomer.

The highlights—like the Lone Cypress, Pebble Beach, and Bird Rock—are truly memorable. Plus, the chance to relax at Pebble Beach’s iconic golf course and enjoy the scenery at your own pace is a real plus.

While the price is reasonable for the experience offered, keep in mind the tour’s limited group size and the fact it’s weather-dependent. If you love the idea of combining outdoor activity with sightseeing, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQs

• Where does the tour start? The tour begins at Mad Dogs & Englishmen Bike Shop & Coffee Bar, located at the SW corner of Ocean Ave and Mission St in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

• How long does the tour last? Expect about 2 hours and 30 minutes, including stops and free time at Pebble Beach.

• What’s included in the price? You get use of an e-bike, a helmet, and access to the sites’ facilities and parking fees.

• Can I participate if I’ve never ridden an e-bike before? Yes, the guides are friendly and patient, and e-bikes are designed to be easy to handle—even for beginners.

• Are children allowed? While not specifically mentioned for families, most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted.

• What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or other conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, cancellations made at least 24 hours before the start are fully refundable. Less than 24 hours, and the payment is non-refundable.

Overall, if you’re craving a scenic, comfortable, and well-guided exploration of one of California’s most iconic drives, this 17-Mile Drive electric bike tour will serve you well.