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Ultimate Monterey Bay, Cannery Row and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour

164 Reviews 4.33 out of 5 stars Based on 164 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Monterey & Carmel, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (8) days in advance.

1 to 3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Monterey GoCar Tour: See it all from 1 to 3 hours. IF BOOKING MORE THAN ONE CAR MAKE SEPARATE RESERVATIONS.

Zip past traffic and dive into Monterey’s must-see sights at your own pace in a sleek, GPS-narrated GoCar—the fun, open-air vehicle that’s both guide and ride. Roll down historic Cannery Row, pause for unbeatable photo ops of the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and cruise the coast toward Pacific Grove’s dramatic shoreline, all while the GoCar’s smart narration shares insider stories and turn-by-turn directions.

Why Book: Skip crowded buses, park anywhere, and explore hidden gems most tours miss

Perfect For: Families, couples, and adventurers looking for flexible, on-your-own-schedule fun

Discover why a GoCar Tour is the most exhilarating way to experience the aquarium, the bay, and beyond—book today and make Monterey your playground!

What's Included

  • Map
  • Tank of gas
  • Helmet
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Optional: Collision Damage Waiver for $19.00 (covers up to $500 in damages)
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

791 Foam Street
Monterey, CA 93940, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Old Fisherman's Wharf (pass by)

A historic wharf lined with seafood eateries, gift shops, and tour boats, set against gorgeous bay views. Known as the “Monterey Bay Whale Watching Capital of the World,” this lively pier is a top visitor destination offering whale-watching cruises, fishing trips, and famous clam chowder tastings . It’s considered a “must-do” for every visitor to Monterey, combining history with family-friendly fun in a picturesque setting
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Monterey Bay (pass by)

Watch our peaceful Monterey bay
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Cannery Row (pass by)

See all the shops, restaurants and attractions on the historical Cannery Row
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Lovers Point Park (pass by)

Zoom past Lover's Point and it's lovely park
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Asilomar State Beach (pass by)

Drive by the coast and witness the beautiful Asilmoar State Beach
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Monterey Bay Aquarium (pass by)

The world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium is the flagship attraction of Cannery Row and a must-see for all ages. Housed in a former cannery building on the waterfront, this 20,000-square-foot aquarium immerses visitors in marine magic – from towering kelp forests and glowing jellies to playful sea otters and hammerhead sharks. Its interactive exhibits and 360° ocean tank views captivate families and marine enthusiasts alike. (The GoCar’s GPS tour will highlight the aquarium as you pass by, and you might even catch glimpses of the building’s sparkling tanks from the road.)
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Monarch Grove Sanctuary (pass by)

A unique hidden gem of Pacific Grove, especially in the fall and winter months. Nicknamed “Butterfly Town, USA,” Pacific Grove hosts one of America’s largest overwintering colonies of Monarch butterflies, and this free sanctuary is where they cluster by the thousands in the trees. From October through February, visitors can stroll the gentle path and gaze up as vibrant orange monarchs blanket the pines and eucalyptus – an unforgettable natural spectacle. (The site is so special that harming a butterfly here carries a $1,000 fine!) Even outside monarch season, the quiet grove is a peaceful nature stop. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and families, offering an educational, enchanting pause on your tour. Bring binoculars if you have them to appreciate these delicate creatures up close
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Point Pinos Lighthouse (pass by)

Steeped in history and charm, Point Pinos Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the U.S. West Coast (first lit in 1855) and one of Pacific Grove’s signature landmarks. This gleaming white lighthouse sits on a windswept point surrounded by greens of the municipal golf course and dramatic shore. Visitors can take a brief self-guided or docent-guided tour inside to see the well-preserved light station and learn about its keepers and maritime history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Point Pinos is considered a “must-see” for history buffs and anyone who appreciates coastal panoramas. The GoCar route through Pacific Grove will pass near the lighthouse – it’s worth a stop to snap a photo and imagine the eras of sailors guided by its beam
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Treasure Hunt: The Ride (pass by)

The strip features interactive attractions like Treasure Hunt: The Ride – a pirate-themed dark ride through hidden caverns and mysteries.
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San Carlos Beach (pass by)

Pull over at San Carlos Beach (at the Row’s south end) to peer into tide pools teeming with starfish and crabs, or watch scuba divers exploring the kelp beds just offshore.
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Dennis the Menace Park (pass by)

A renowned children’s playground and park near downtown Monterey, ideal for families to take a break during the tour. This large lakeside park features innovative play structures (including multiple slides, a hedge maze, and an old steam engine locomotive on display) and has been the city’s most famous playground for decades. It’s the “most popular” municipal playground in Monterey, inviting kids to burn off energy while adults relax by Lake El Estero – a great pit stop to complement the open-air adventure.
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Monterey Bay Recreation Trail (pass by)

This scenic paved trail hugs the waterfront from Monterey to Pacific Grove, perfect for a self-paced exploration by foot, bike, or GoCar. The trail links Old Fisherman’s Wharf to Cannery Row with sweeping ocean vistas and interpretive signs. Along the way, you can pause to scan for wildlife like seals, pelicans, and otters, or explore tide pools at spots like San Carlos Beach. The coastal trail is extremely popular for its breathtaking views of the Pacific and easy access to attractions, making it an adventurous yet family-friendly highlight of Monterey Bay.
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Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (pass by)

The expansive bay itself is a star attraction, protected as part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and teeming with marine life. Travelers often spot sea otters, sea lions, dolphins, or even migrating whales from the shore. Whether you pause at a scenic lookout or cruise along the water, the bay’s calm, clear waters offer incredible wildlife viewing opportunities in an open-air setting. (The GoCar’s GPS narration will even point out where to look for frolicking otters or harbor seals in the kelp beds.)
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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Minimum age is 7 years; children must be accompanied by an adult
  • All renters must be able to read, understand and sign a liability release and waiver form
  • Maximum passenger height is 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm)

Frequently Asked Questions (8)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Ultimate Monterey Bay, Cannery Row and Pacific Grove GoCar Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (PST). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-14670CAR

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.33
164 reviews

Average 4.33 out of 5 stars based on 164 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
113
4 stars
24
3 stars
9
2 stars
4
1 star
14
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 18 (8) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Map
  • Tank of gas
  • Helmet
  • Safety Orientation
  • Rental of GPS-guided GoCar
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Optional: Collision Damage Waiver for $19.00 (covers up to $500 in damages)

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Drivers must be 18 years of age or older and must present a valid driver's license
  • Minimum age is 7 years; children must be accompanied by an adult
  • All renters must be able to read, understand and sign a liability release and waiver form
  • Maximum passenger height is 6 feet 3 inches (190 cm)
  • One member of each group must present a credit card and government-issued ID; this information will only be used in the case of damage or loss of property
  • Price is per car (which seats up to 2 passengers)

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