Classic California Coastal Getaway to Scenic Monterey and Big Sur
EXPERIENCE OVERVIEW
Set along California’s rugged central coast, the Monterey peninsula welcomes visitors year-round with incredible ocean views, mild weather, and plenty of West Coast charm. Here you’ll find cute seaside shops, world-class restaurants, chic hotels, and historic small towns—connected by the famed Pacific Coast Highway—all within a stunning landscape of forested clifftops, rolling hills, laid-back beaches, and miles of wild coastline.
For this four-day trip, you’ll experience the great outdoors on both land and water, relax in style with deluxe accommodations at one of Monterey’s finest luxury hotels, and have plenty of free time to explore more of this quintessential California community on your own.
Your vacation will begin with check in at the hotel, followed by an afternoon free to head out and see the sights. Wander among the unique shops at Old Fisherman’s Wharf, check out the amazing marine exhibits at the lovely Monterey Bay Aquarium, or sign up for a guided walking tour of Cannery Row to learn more about this picturesque street while soaking up the rich history and culture of the area. For dinner, try any of the excellent seafood places that Monterey is known for, or enjoy the seasonally inspired modern menu and wine list at the hip Montrio Bistro.
The next morning, you’ll start the day with a fantastic four-hour whale watching cruise on Monterey Bay. Known for its abundant and diverse marine life, the waters here offer a unique opportunity to see a wide variety of whales, dolphins, and other wildlife up close. Your cruise will be led by an experienced marine biologist, who will narrate and answer questions along the way, and you’ll have premium, upper-deck seating, allowing for expansive views of the water, coastline, and clear blue sky.
In the afternoon, you’ll explore the peninsula on land with a fun electric bike ride along scenic 17-Mile Drive. This private 2.5-hour guided tour will take you up and down the hills of Pebble Beach, past famous golf courses, mansions, and historic landmarks, with dramatic ocean views and stops for photos along the way.
The next day, we’ve arranged for you to take a customized hiking trip down the Big Sur coastline with your own private guide. On this full-day adventure, you’ll visit old-growth redwoods, cross shaded mountain streams, view waterfalls, and walk along coastal trails or craggy ocean coves before stopping to enjoy a deluxe picnic lunch. It’s an unforgettable way to experience this coastal California landscape and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Monterey and Big Sur.
After a day outdoors, treat yourself to a luxurious massage at the hotel’s onsite spa, grab a pint and burger at the Alvarado Street Brewery and Grill, or cap off your coastal California vacation with reservations for an elegant, fresh-seafood dinner at the iconic Sardine Factory restaurant.
The best months for outdoor fun in Monterey are April through October, but whatever season you choose to visit, you’re sure to leave with memories that last a lifetime.
highlights
- 4 days / 3 nights in Monterey, California
- Whale-watching cruise on Monterey Bay, led by a marine biologist
- Private electric bike tour along 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach
- A full-day private hiking excursion, with lunch, down the Big Sur coast
Trip details
Trip Type: Small Group
Comfort: Luxury
Travel Styles: Active, Outdoors
Starts: Monterey, United States
Finishes: Monterey, United States
Duration: 4 days
ITINERARY
1Welcome to Monterey, California
- Arrive and check in at your hotel
- Settle in and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure
Suggested Itinerary Enhancements:
- Take a Cannery Row historic walking tour
- Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Walk or bike to Pacific Grove on the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail
- Wander Old Fisherman’s Wharf
2Whale-watching and an electric bike tour
- This morning, you’ll enjoy a four-hour whale-watching cruise on Monterey Bay
- In the afternoon, take a private, guided electric bike tour along 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach
- Continue to explore the city or relax at the hotel for the rest of the afternoon and evening
Suggested Itinerary Enhancements:
- Have coffee at Captain + Stoker or grab a pint at Alvarado Street Brewery
- Enjoy dinner at the Sardine Factory, Paprika Café, or Montrio Bistro
3Hiking the Big Sur coast
- Today you’ll head out for a customized, full-day hiking excursion down the Big Sur coast with a knowledgeable, private guide, stopping for a deluxe picnic
- Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure
Suggested Itinerary Enhancements:
- Visit Monterey State Historic Park
- Explore Old Town Monterey
- Horseback ride along the bay
- Indulge in a spa treatment at the hotel
4Depart for home
- Check out of your hotel and depart for home
- Start planning your next Manifest Escapes getaway
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Transportation to/from Monterey Regional Airport
- Deluxe accommodations at a luxury hotel
- A whale-watching cruise on Monterey Bay, led by a marine biologist
- A private electric bike tour along 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach
- A full-day private hiking excursion, with lunch, down the Big Sur coast
ACCOMMODATIONS
PAYMENT TERMS
- 20% due upon booking
- 80% due 60 days from trip start date
- 100% due if booked inside 60 days from trip start date
CANCELLATION TERMS
- 36 or more days from trip start date - 100% refund
- 16-35 days from trip start date - 100% refund less $150 per person administration fee or a 100% refund in Manifest travel credit (must be used within one calendar year of cancellation date)
- 0-15 days from trip start date - 100% non-refundable and no Manifest credits given
Partner Details
Manifest Signature
In Business Since 2019
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