Self Guided Driving Audio Tour of 17 Mile Drive Monterey

If you’re planning a trip to Monterey and considering a way to soak in the breathtaking coastal scenery without the hassle of a guided group, a self-guided driving audio tour might be just the thing. Particularly, the one offered for the 17-Mile Drive has garnered excellent feedback, with a perfect 5-star rating based on a single review. While we haven’t personally taken this tour ourselves, the details available make it look like a solid choice for travelers who enjoy flexibility and a good story along the way.

What we really like about this experience is the flexible pacing it offers — you can take your time at each stop, choose your own itinerary, and enjoy the scenery without rushing. Plus, the offline GPS feature means you’re not tied to cell service, which is a big plus in remote coastal areas. On the flip side, some might find the entry fee of $12 extra and parking fees a little inconvenient, especially if you’re on a tight budget. This tour seems best suited for those who want a personalized, relaxed exploration of Monterey’s iconic coastline, whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or even with friends.

Key Points

• Flexible schedule: Drive at your own pace and start anytime during operational hours.
• Offline navigation: No internet needed once the tour is downloaded.
• Engaging stories: Over 90 points of narration, with stories on history, landmarks, and local sights.
• Great value: For around $14, you get a personal tour for up to 8 people, making it cost-effective.
• Easy to use: Download the app beforehand, and your tour is ready to go.
• Ideal for self-sufficient travelers: You control the timing and route, perfect for those who like itineraries but crave freedom.

Unpacking the Experience: What to Expect from the 17-Mile Drive Audio Tour

This tour is designed to make your drive along one of California’s most famous routes as engaging and informative as possible. It covers more than 90 points of interest, meaning you’re never far from a story or a helpful tip, whether you’re stopping or just passing by.

Starting Point: Heritage Harbor Parking Garage

The adventure kicks off right in Monterey at the Heritage Harbor Parking Garage, a convenient spot to leave your car. Once you’ve downloaded the GuideAlong app and the tour, you’re all set to begin whenever you’re ready. This initial setup might take a few minutes, but it’s straightforward and well-supported with support options if needed.

First Stop: Bird Rock Vista Point

Bird Rock is a highlight for nature lovers. It’s a sanctuary for seabirds, seals, and sea lions, and the perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap some photos. The narration here enhances the experience, pointing out the local wildlife and explaining why Bird Rock is such a special place. Even if you’re familiar with wildlife, hearing about their habits and habitats adds a layer of appreciation.

The Iconic Lone Cypress

Of course, no trip to Monterey is complete without seeing the Lone Cypress. This tree, standing tall for over 250 years, is an emblem of the rugged coast. According to the tour, it’s more than just a photo opportunity; it symbolizes resilience and the natural beauty of the peninsula. We loved the way the stories are automatically triggered as you approach, making it feel like having a knowledgeable guide right in the car with you.

Kissing Rock Road

Next, Kissing Rock draws visitors for its dramatic views and unique shape—resembling two rocks leaning into each other. The story behind its name isn’t detailed here, but the breathtaking scenery more than makes up for it. It’s a fantastic place to pause, take in the sweeping ocean views, and enjoy a moment of quiet reflection.

Spanish Bay & Point Joe

Spanish Bay is renowned for its sunsets, sandy beaches, and rugged coastline. Watching the waves crash and catching the sunset here is a memorable experience, especially when paired with the stories about the area’s natural features. Point Joe offers panoramic views of the crashing waves and rocky shores, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery.

China Rock

Finally, China Rock offers dramatic cliffs and clear waters, a photographer’s haven. The narration explains the significance of the formations and the area’s appeal to nature lovers. It’s a compact stop but packed with visual and informational interest.

The Practicalities: How the Tour Works & What It Means for You

This tour is priced at just $14.44 per group, which, considering it covers up to 8 people, makes it a real bargain. The main cost is the entry fee of $12 and parking, but overall, you’re paying for a personalized guide that you can pause, replay, and customize.

Importantly, the tour is entirely offline once downloaded, so you don’t need to worry about losing signal on this scenic drive. You’ll receive instructions via email and text after booking, and the app is compatible with both Apple and Google accounts, making setup smooth.

The duration is flexible, generally taking about 3 to 4 hours, but you can extend or shorten it based on your pace. Since there are no time limits or expiry, you can even split the drive over several days if you prefer, making it perfect for a relaxed vacation.

The support options are robust, with a toll-free phone line, chat, and email, so help is available if you encounter any issues.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll Discover at Each Stop

While the tour offers a suggested route, the beauty of this self-guided format is that you can tailor your experience. Here’s a breakdown of what each major stop offers:

Bird Rock Vista Point

As an early stop, Bird Rock immerses you in the local wildlife scene. The narration here emphasizes the area’s natural beauty, and you might spot a variety of seabirds, seals, and sea lions. It’s a peaceful spot that sets the tone for the drive.

Lone Cypress

This tree is a symbol of the coast’s resilience. The stories about its history and its role as a local icon are woven into the narration, with automatic triggers that keep you engaged without needing to check your device constantly.

Kissing Rock Road

The unique shape of Kissing Rock makes it a fun photo stop—and the views of the Pacific are truly stunning. The narration adds context about the landscape, making your visit more meaningful.

Spanish Bay

Famous for its sunset views, Spanish Bay is perfect for a leisurely stop. You can enjoy the sandy beaches and rugged coast, with stories highlighting the area’s natural features and history.

Point Joe

A rugged outcrop that offers sweeping views of the ocean. The narration here describes the crashing waves and rocky formations, giving you a sense of the area’s wild energy.

China Rock

Dramatic cliffs and clear waters are the focus here. The narration covers the geological features and natural beauty, making it a favorite for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Who This Tour is Best For

This experience is ideal if you prefer exploring at your own pace and enjoy storytelling that enriches your understanding of the scenery. It’s perfect for those comfortable with using a smartphone app and wanting an affordable, flexible way to see Monterey’s coast. The group pricing makes it a good option for families or friends traveling together, but it’s equally suited for solo travelers who like independent adventures.

If you’re a traveler who values stunning views, informative stories, and the freedom to create your own itinerary, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts: Is This The Right Tour for You?

For anyone wanting a stress-free way to experience the iconic 17-Mile Drive, this self-guided audio tour offers tremendous value. The mix of beautiful scenery, interesting stories, and user-friendly technology makes it a compelling choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to control their pace, avoid large tour groups, and enjoy the coast on their own terms.

The standout features—offline navigation, automatic story playback, and cost efficiency—are all designed to enhance your experience rather than complicate it. Yes, there’s an entry fee and parking costs, but for the price, you get a tailored, informative drive through one of California’s most scenic routes.

If you’re looking for a flexible, engaging way to enjoy the Monterey coastline that won’t break the bank, this tour is worth considering. It’s a practical, well-supported option that puts you in the driver’s seat, letting you focus on the views and stories that make this drive so memorable.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour doesn’t specify age restrictions, the stories and scenery appeal to most ages. Keep in mind, it’s a driving tour, so children will need to be comfortable in a vehicle for a few hours.

Do I need a GPS or data connection during the tour?
No, once you download the tour, it works offline using your phone’s GPS, so you don’t need cell service during the drive.

How many people can share one purchase?
One purchase covers up to 8 people in the vehicle, making it economical for groups or families traveling together.

What if I lose cell service during the tour?
The tour is designed to work offline, so losing cell service won’t interrupt the narration or navigation once the tour is downloaded.

Are there recommended times of day for this tour?
The tour operates from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, so you can choose a time that fits your schedule. Early morning or late afternoon might offer the best lighting for photos.

What’s the total duration of the drive?
Expect about 3 to 4 hours, but you can take longer if you prefer to linger at each stop or explore additional areas.

Are there any additional costs I should know about?
Yes, there’s a $12 entry fee for the park, plus possible parking fees. These are separate from the tour cost.

Is parking easy to find?
Yes, starting at Heritage Harbor Parking Garage in Monterey offers convenient access, but be prepared for typical parking fees.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, self-paced way to see the stunning Monterey coast with an engaging storyteller guiding you, this self-guided audio tour of 17 Mile Drive fits the bill nicely. Just be sure to download the app, plan your timing, and bring some patience—and plenty of photo space!