Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour of Point Reyes National Seashore

5.0 (1 reviews) San Francisco, USA
Duration2h - 3h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Private tourOnly your group will participate

Overview

Download GuideAlong's self-guided audio tour of Point Reyes National Seashore to explore its rugged coastline, pristine landscapes, and ecological diversity. Visit the iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse, gaze at sweeping ocean views from Tomates Point, uncover the haunting allure of the Point Reyes Shipwreck, and spot sea lions and elephant seals in their natural habitat. Along the way, hear captivating stories of pirates, hoaxes, and maritime past play automatically, enriching your drive through this wild coastal sanctuary.

Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you and bypassing any that don’t.
Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location
Travel at your own pace
Tour offline using GPS. No cell service or WiFi is needed
Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use
Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates.
Like having a tour guide along for the drive
Purchase one tour per vehicle.

What's included

  • Support: Toll free phone, chat and email
  • Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline
  • Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF
  • Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay
  • Includes an app-based self-guided experience, so you do not need any in-person guide.
  • Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates
  • GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 45+ Points
  • Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own
  • Entry Fees, National Park Passes, Reservations

What to expect

  1. Bear Valley Visitor Center
    15m · Admission ticket not included
    Bear Valley Visitor Center is a great starting point for exploring Point Reyes National Seashore. Located in the heart of the Olema Valley, it offers information on the park's trails, history, and ecosystems. Visitors can also obtain permits for backcountry camping and beach fires. The center features exhibits, a seismograph, and an auditorium for educational programs.
  2. Cypress Tree Tunnel
    10m
    Walk through this striking tunnel formed by arching Monterey cypress trees, creating a serene and picturesque canopy. A photographer's dream, this natural tunnel leads to the historic KPH Maritime Radio Receiving Station, offering a unique glimpse into Point Reyes' history.
  3. 30m
    Drakes Estero is a beautiful estuary located in Point Reyes National Seashore. It's a protected area that provides a habitat for a variety of marine life, including fish, shellfish, and seabirds. Visitors can explore the estuary by kayak or paddleboard, or simply enjoy the scenic views from the nearby trails. Drakes Estero is also a popular spot for bird watching, with opportunities to see herons, egrets, and other waterbirds.
  4. Tomales Point Trail
    15m · Admission ticket not included
    Tomales Point is a stunning peninsula in Point Reyes National Seashore, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Farallon Islands. It's a popular destination for hiking, bird watching, and exploring the unique coastal ecosystem. The point is home to a variety of wildlife, including tule elk, deer, and a wide range of bird species.
  5. Point Reyes Beach North
    15m
    Experience the vast stretch of sand and waves at Point Reyes Beach. This wild and scenic coastal area is perfect for beachcombing, birdwatching, and witnessing the power of the Pacific. Stay alert for sneaker waves as you enjoy the raw beauty of this remote shoreline.
  6. Drakes Beach
    15m
    Named after Sir Francis Drake, Drakes Beach offers gentle waves, dramatic cliffs, and fascinating tide pools. This family-friendly spot is ideal for a peaceful day by the ocean, with opportunities to explore and picnic while appreciating the historic significance of the area.
  7. 15m
    The Chimney Rock Trail offers sweeping coastal views and wildflower-filled meadows in spring. Keep an eye out for migrating gray whales and nesting seabirds. This short yet rewarding hike leads to breathtaking ocean vistas and a sense of Point Reyes' untamed beauty.
  8. Point Reyes Lighthouse
    15m
    Step back in time at this historic station, once a hub for maritime rescue operations. The Lifeboat Station tells the story of brave crews saving lives along the rugged coast, offering insights into the area's nautical history and a chance to explore the preserved 1920s architecture.
  9. 10m
    Observe the majestic elephant seals from this designated overlook. From December to March, watch these massive marine mammals as they breed, give birth, and bask on the beach. Rangers are often available to share fascinating insights into their behaviors and lifecycle.
  10. 15m
    A fantastic spot for watching sea lions as they sunbathe and swim along the rocky shores. This overlook provides a unique view of these playful creatures in their natural habitat, along with the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean and Point Reyes' dramatic cliffs.
  11. 10m
    Gaze out at the seemingly endless horizon from South Beach Overlook. This spot offers unparalleled views of the Pacific, where powerful waves crash against the shore. It's a great place to watch for migrating whales or simply take in the breathtaking scenery.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Includes an app-based self-guided experience, so no in-person guide is needed. Start on Sir Francis Drake Blvd near Point Reyes Station via Route 1, or join anywhere along the route. Check the route map for green flag markers. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview before arrival.

End point

Includes an app-based self-guided experience, so no in-person guide is needed. Start on Sir Francis Drake Blvd near Point Reyes Station via Route 1, or join anywhere along the route. Check the route map for green flag markers. Search your email for “Download Audio Tour,” then preview before arrival.

Additional information

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
  • Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
  • Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under 'My Tours' over WiFi or cellular data.
  • Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
  • Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.
  • Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
  • Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
  • Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
  • Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline.
  • Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged.
  • Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email.
  • The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (1)
From
$19.99 per group
Check availability & book
  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
  • Instant confirmation
  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
More activities in San Francisco
From
$19.99 per group
Check availability