Monterey is a fantastic place for a quick, memorable outing. Its compact size and wealth of sights make a 2-hour tour just right for travelers seeking a taste of the coast’s natural beauty and attractions.
We especially love tours like the Early Bird Special for its fun, hands-on approach—driving a quirky scooter car along the shoreline— and the GPS Guided Tour for its informative, self-paced exploration of key sites. Both offer a flexible way to see Monterey without feeling rushed, but each has its own charm.
Below, we’ll break down these two excellent options, helping you decide which fits your style and interests best.
1. Monterey: Early Bird Special- 2 hours
At number 1 on our list is the Early Bird Special, a fun and straightforward way to see Monterey and Pacific Grove in two hours. This tour involves driving a two-seater GoCar, a GPS-guided scooter car that puts you in charge of your adventure. It’s perfect for travelers who want a hands-on experience that feels both playful and practical.
This tour hits on the essentials—driving past Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can imagine the bustling seafood trade of the past. You’ll see historic buildings, the harbor, and enjoy fantastic ocean views from the coast.
A highlight is stopping at the butterfly sanctuary, which adds a touch of nature’s wonder to your journey, and exploring the charming streets of Pacific Grove with its iconic sand dunes and tall Cypress trees.
The wind in your hair feeling makes this a lively way to explore, especially if you love being outdoors and getting some fresh air.
Priced at $112 per group (up to 2), it offers great value for a personalized tour in a unique vehicle. Your guide will steer you along scenic routes, making sure you see the highlights without the hassle of navigating yourself. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure and want a playful, quick overview of Monterey’s coast.
Bottom line: If you’re after a fun, interactive way to see the coastline with ease, the Early Bird Special is hard to beat.
2. Monterey: 2-Hour GPS Guided Tour
Coming in at number 2, the GPS Guided Tour offers a richer, more informative experience—especially if you like your sightseeing sprinkled with interesting facts. For $187 per group (up to 2), this tour employs a GoCar with built-in talking guide and GPS navigation, allowing you to explore independently but with expert commentary.
This tour covers top sights like the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Old Whaling Station, and the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History.
The GPS system guides you along a pre-programmed route that ensures you don’t miss key attractions while giving you the freedom to pause, revisit, or skip parts at your own pace. Notable viewpoints include Kissing Rock Viewpoint and Lovers Point, where you can take in sweeping ocean vistas.
Guests have praised the self-guided format as ideal for those who prefer flexibility and learning during their tour. The talking car provides a conversational guide that shares stories and historical insights—making the experience both educational and fun.
It’s perfect for travelers who want to learn about Monterey’s marine life, literary history (like John Steinbeck’s cottage), and scenic spots without extra effort.
Bottom line: If you prefer a self-paced, informative journey with the convenience of GPS and storytelling, this tour offers a polished, engaging experience.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two, consider your priorities. The Early Bird Special is ideal if you want a playful, outdoor experience without much planning, or if you enjoy the novelty of driving a scooter car. It’s perfect for couples or friends looking for a quick, fun tour.
On the other hand, the GPS Guided Tour suits those who want a more educational experience, with the ability to explore at their own pace and learn about Monterey’s rich history and natural wonders. It’s a bit pricier but provides a more rundown.
Your choice might also hinge on your fitness level—both tours are easy to handle but involve some sitting and driving. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and vehicle.
Final Thoughts
Both tours offer a great way to experience Monterey’s highlights in just two hours. If you’re after a fun, interactive ride and enjoy the feeling of wind in your hair, the Early Bird Special delivers a memorable, lively adventure.
For those who want more insight and a flexible itinerary, the GPS Guided Tour provides a richer, customizable experience—perfect for curious travelers who love to learn as they explore.
In either case, these short tours pack a punch, making them perfect for fitting Monterey’s big charm into a compact timeframe. Be sure to plan ahead and book early—Monterey’s scenic coast is waiting, and these tours will give you a fresh perspective on this beautiful part of California.