Planning a trip from San Francisco to Big Sur?
There is a range of fantastic guided tours that get you covered and you get to see all the iconic sights without the need to navigate.
Choosing a tour doesn’t mean compromising on adventure. You’ll still get to witness the unique charm of Big Sur, just with a little more ease.
Below are my top picks to help you get from San Francisco to Big Sur and experience its magic.
My Top Pick: San Francisco To Big Sur Tour
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Carmel, Monterey and Big Sur Tour
✅ one day private tour
✅ option to create your own itinerary
California Central Coast 3-Day Private Tour from San Francisco
✅ 3 days private tour
✅ Park fees and hotel included
Best 3 Tours From San Francisco To Big Sur
1. Carmel, Monterey and Big Sur Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 10 hours | ✅ Book it!
This is a small group tour for up to 4 people. It starts at 8 am at your chosen location and ends there as well.
Since it’s only a 4 people tour you can create your own itinerary or simply follow the recommendations of the guide. It’s a perfect tour for those who want to avoid the hassle of organized bus tours.
You’ll explore Carmel, Monterey and Big Sur in one day.
Keep in mind that it’s a 10 hour tour and food and drinks are not included, so you may want to bring some snacks.
Guest review: “My husband and I are first time visitors to CA and Marciano treated us like royalty on our visit to Big Sur, Carmel, and Monterey! … Our first rest stop (I believe in Santa Clara) had a little food shop. I highly recommend the warm banana nut bread. Marciano was a very attentive guide and even made an unscheduled stop at Pacific Grove. The coastline contained pinkish-purple flowers and the views were stunning! Monterey was a great stop with a walk along the pier where you can hear the seals in the water. I even picked up inexpensive hand crafted jewelry from one of the outside vendors. The town of Carmel was very quaint and the beaches lovely with the bluest water I’ve seen thus far! The views from Bixby Bridge is worth the price of admission! Marciano was the best! He guided us along the way, and was an expert on taking panoramic pictures! I want to also thank Ed who was very responsive in answering all my questions. I highly recommend this tour!” – Tashawna_U (Read more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices and Availability!
You might want to dive deeper into the marine life of the region. Monterey is renowned for its whale watching tours. For the best experience check out our recommendations for the best whale watching tours in Monterey.
2. Private Monterey, Carmel and Big Sur Day Trip from San Francisco
⭐️ RATING: 4,6/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | ✅ Book it!
This tour is maximum 6 people. It also includes pick up and drop off at your selected point. You can be picked up from all locations in San Francisco, Marin or Silicon Valley.
Bottled water and snacks are included in the price.
You’ll see Shark Fin Cove, Monterey, Carmel by the Sea, Bixby Bridge and more.
Guest review: “A great trip from San Francisco to Big Sur in a single day. Pep knew a lot and she was a considerate, interesting guide for adults. My people were complaining about the nasty weather in which we started and ended our trip. But Pep told us that the weather clears out on the shore and she was right. We could admire the breathtaking views Big Sur was offering, and enjoy a delightful lunch at a picturesque little restaurant in Carmel with a stroll after lunch.” – Tamas_H (Read more reviews)
➡️ Check Prices and Availability!
3. California Central Coast 3-Day Private Tour from San Francisco
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 days | ✅ Book it!
If you have more than just one day to explore Californian coast, this is the perfect tour for you.
This is a 3 day private tour. You’ll visit Big Sur, Monterey, Hearst Castle, Carmel and more.
This tour does not go to Los Angeles. You’ll be picked up and dropped off at the place of your choice in San Francisco.
The tour is offered in English, French and Spanish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re short in time – choose the first tour. If you have 3 days to dedicate to Californian coast – tour #3 is for you.
If you have more time to invest into planning your trip grab a car, choose a self-guided tour of Big Sur and hit the road yourself.
🚗 You can rent a car here.
Trust me, nothing tops the thrill of cruising down Highway 1, with the freedom to pull over for impromptu picnics, hikes, scenic selfies, and stretches of stunning coastline.
But rolling through Big Sur on a tour is still a solid plan B.
The most important thing is that you get to experience the wonder of Big Sur, however you choose to get there.
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