Santa Maria–Monterey Big Sur Self-Guided Smartphone Audio Drive
3.7 / 5 · 9 traveler reviews
Explore California's Big Sur coast on a self-guided smartphone audio drive between Santa Maria and Monterey, in either direction. Follow Highway 1 past Pismo Beach, Morro Rock, Hearst Castle, elephant seal viewing areas, McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge, Point Lobos and Carmel-by-the-Sea. Hear 40+ GPS-triggered stories; some subjects share a Viator itinerary entry. A live GPS map shows your route while audio plays through your phone or car speakers. Download before departure for offline use, then pause and explore at your own pace. Allow about 4–5 hours plus optional stops or traffic delays. Bring your own car and smartphone; there is no in-person guide. This is mainly a scenic pass-by drive. Attraction admission and interior access are separate. Highway 1 and park access can change with construction, fires or weather, so check current Caltrans and park notices. The McWay Falls overlook trail and beach are closed.
Your experience
Stop 1
Begin or end in Santa Maria, a Central Coast gateway to the scenic Highway 1 drive.
Stop 2
See the broad sands and dunes at Oceano, where beach access and activities depend on current park rules.
Stop 3
Hear about Santa Barbara wine country, a regional tradition reaching back to California's mission era.
Stop 4
Pass Arroyo Grande and its historic village, rooted in the region's ranching and farming past.
Stop 5
Catch a glimpse of Grover Beach, a laid-back coastal town beside Pismo's dunes.
Stop 6
Enjoy Pismo Beach's shoreline and coastal views as the road draws you toward the ocean.
Stop 7
Look for monarch butterflies at the Pismo grove during their seasonal winter gathering.
Stop 8
Discover Montaña de Oro's rugged coastline and wildflower-covered hills on an optional detour.
Stop 9
Explore San Luis Obispo's historic core and its famously quirky Bubblegum Alley if you stop.
Stop 10
Visit the San Luis Obispo Botanical Garden on an optional detour for plants from Mediterranean climates.
Stop 11
Take in Morro Bay and its iconic volcanic landmark, Morro Rock, from the waterfront.
Stop 12
Stretch your legs at Cayucos Pier for open Pacific views and a taste of this seaside town.
What’s included
- One booking per vehicle
- GPS-triggered smartphone audio tour
- Live GPS route map
- Download for offline use
- Flexible, self-paced access
Not included
- Headphones (optional; audio also plays through your phone or vehicle speakers)
- Attraction admission and interior access unless specifically stated
- Smartphone or tablet (bring your own)
- Vehicle and fuel (drive your own)
- Parking fees at optional stops
- In-person guide
Meeting and pickup
For the north-to-south direction, begin in Monterey and follow the in-app GPS route toward Santa Maria; this is self-guided, with no in-person meeting.
For the south-to-north direction, begin in Santa Maria and follow the in-app GPS route toward Monterey; there is no in-person meeting.
Before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- This is a self-guided drive in your own vehicle, with optional outdoor stops on uneven or steep ground. You can enjoy the audio without entering attractions. Highway 1 may have controlled traffic, closures or fire-related access restrictions; check Caltrans and park notices before departure. McWay Falls overlook trail and beach access are closed.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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