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17-Mile Drive is one of the most famous scenic drives in the world, located on the Monterey Peninsula in California. This spectacular route winds through the exclusive Pebble Beach community, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific coastline, lush forests, and world-class golf courses.
Visitors are greeted with stunning natural beauty and architectural elegance. Iconic landmarks along the drive include the Lone Cypress—a solitary tree dramatically perched on a rocky outcrop symbolizing resilience and beauty—and the Ghost Tree, a bleached, weather-beaten cypress guarding the rugged coast. The route also features Pebble Beach Golf Links, known for its picturesque fairways and prestigious golf tournaments.
The drive is dotted with luxurious mansions and historic sites that echo the area’s rich history. Key stops offer unique vistas and photo opportunities, like Bird Rock, teeming with marine wildlife, and Fanshell Overlook, which provides views of a white sandy beach and harbor seals. Whether for its dramatic coastal cliffs, wildlife spotting, or immaculate golf landscapes, 17-Mile Drive ensures a memorable experience for all visitors.
You can reach 17-Mile Drive by car or plane. Drive along scenic coastal highways with well-marked gates providing entry to the area. If traveling by plane, rent a car upon arrival for an easy drive to this iconic destination.
The nearest airport is Monterey Regional Airport (MRY), just ten miles from 17-Mile Drive. Rent a car to reach the entrance in about 15 minutes. San Jose International Airport (SJC) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) are larger alternatives, located one and half and two hours away, respectively, offering more flight options.
From San Francisco, take US-101 South to CA-156 West, then merge onto CA-1 South towards Monterey. The drive takes approximately two hours. From Los Angeles, head north on I-5, take CA-46 West towards Paso Robles, then continue on US-101 North and CA-68 West to reach Pebble Beach. This trip takes about sic hours. From Sacramento, drive I-80 West, then follow CA-12 West to CA-29 South, merging onto US-101 South to CA-156 West, which connects to CA-1 South. The journey is around three and half hours.
Getting Around
Exploring 17-Mile Drive is best done by car or bike, as the route is designed for a leisurely journey through its stunning landmarks. For drivers, the entrance fee includes a map detailing all stops, such as the Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay, with convenient pullouts and parking areas at each attraction. Cyclists can enter the drive for free, enjoying an up-close experience of the scenery, though the hilly terrain can be challenging. Walking is suitable for short sections but not practical for the entire 17-mile route. Some hotels and tour operators also provide shuttles or guided tours for convenience.
Accommodations along the 17-Mile Drive in the Monterey Peninsula cater to a variety of preferences, from the opulence of Pebble Beach resorts to the cozy charm of nearby inns. Visitors can choose from luxurious establishments offering top-tier amenities and panoramic views of the ocean and world-famous golf courses. These resorts are perfect for those looking to indulge in a lavish getaway complete with spa services and gourmet dining.
In contrast, Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pacific Grove boast quaint bed and breakfasts and boutique hotels, providing a warm, inviting atmosphere ideal for those who prefer a more intimate experience. These lodgings are nestled close to vibrant local scenes, featuring unique shops and delightful restaurants.
Overall, whether opting for luxury or simplicity, the accommodations around 17-Mile Drive cater to a wide range of preferences, ensuring a memorable stay for all who visit.
17-Mile Drive, located on California’s scenic Monterey Peninsula, offers a picturesque experience any time of the year, with each season providing unique charms. In spring, the area features mild temperatures and a bloom of wildflowers, offering stunning views with fewer crowds. This season is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture vibrant scenes and active wildlife. Summer brings warm, sunny weather, ideal for beach activities, scenic picnics, and exploring landmarks like the Lone Cypress. Despite being the peak season, the cool ocean breezes keep conditions pleasant.
As autumn arrives, cooler temperatures and fewer tourists make it an excellent time for golf on world-class courses and for photographers to capture the landscape’s changing hues. Winter, on the other hand, offers solitude with dramatic coastal storms and fewer visitors. The crisp air and tumultuous seas provide a peaceful yet stark beauty, ideal for introspective visits and capturing dramatic coastal photography. Each season on 17-Mile Drive distinctively highlights the natural beauty and allure of this famed coastal route.
Visiting 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, California, can vary greatly in duration depending on what you want to experience. For those with limited time, a 2-3 hour drive allows you to pass through iconic spots like the Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay, offering quick photo opportunities and brief stops to admire the dramatic coastline. This quick tour is perfect for getting a sense of the area’s scenic beauty without committing to a full day.
For a more enriched experience, spending four to six hours lets you delve deeper. This duration provides ample time to take leisurely walks, enjoy a picnic, or visit several of the world-famous golf courses. Extending the visit to a full day allows for a comprehensive exploration of all the major attractions. You can dine at ocean-side restaurants, explore the Pebble Beach Visitor Center, and enjoy activities such as beachcombing and hiking. It’s the perfect way to truly appreciate the scenic beauty, luxurious amenities, and serene atmosphere of the Monterey Peninsula
To enjoy a quieter experience on 17-Mile Drive, plan your visit during off-peak times. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon helps avoid the mid-day crowds, especially on weekends and holidays. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, making them ideal for a more peaceful drive.
Visiting during the off-season months, such as late fall, winter, or early spring, can also help you avoid the heavier tourist traffic of the summer months. Starting from less popular gates, like the Highway 1 or Carmel Gate, may reduce wait times at the entrance.
Focus on lesser-visited stops, such as Fanshell Overlook or Point Joe, instead of only the most popular attractions like the Lone Cypress, to experience the scenic beauty with fewer visitors around. Planning your route in advance ensures you spend more time enjoying the stunning landscapes and less time in crowded areas.
Kissing Rock
Kissing Rock, a notable scenic point along 17-Mile Drive, captivates with its unique appearance—two rocks leaning together as if about to kiss. Situated near Spanish Bay, it offers stunning views of the rugged Pacific coastline, making it an ideal photo spot. The area teems with seabirds and occasionally, glimpses of marine life like sea otters or seals. Visitors to Kissing Rock are treated to a picturesque scene that enhances the experience of this iconic coastal journey.
Point Joe
Point Joe is known for its rugged beauty. This coastal landmark offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean’s crashing waves against the rocky shore. Mariners once mistook Point Joe for Monterey Bay, leading to numerous shipwrecks in the treacherous waters. Today, it’s a peaceful spot for visitors to admire the dramatic coastline, listen to the roaring surf, and observe the abundant seabird activity. The location is especially favored by photographers aiming to capture the striking interplay of nature’s forces along California’s central coast.
Fanshell Beach Overlook
Fanshell Beach Overlook offers stunning views of a pristine, crescent-shaped beach framed by rugged rocks and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. The beach is known for its soft, white sand and turquoise waters, providing an idyllic setting for photography and relaxation. From this overlook, visitors can often spot harbor seals, especially during the pupping season in spring when the beach is closed to protect them. For those interested in wildlife and natural landscapes, Fanshell Beach serves as a perfect spot along the 17-Mile Drive.
Lone Cypress
The Lone Cypress is an iconic symbol of the rugged beauty of the Monterey Peninsula. Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this resilient tree has withstood centuries of harsh coastal winds and waves. Estimated to be over 250 years old, the Lone Cypress has become one of the most photographed trees in the world, representing strength and perseverance. Standing before the Lone Cypress, visitors often feel a deep connection to the resilience and enduring beauty of nature.
Bird Rock
Bird Rock is a haven for wildlife and a must-see for nature enthusiasts. This large, rocky outcrop in the Pacific Ocean is home to a diverse array of seabirds, including cormorants, gulls, and pelicans, which can often be seen resting or nesting on the rock. Sea lions and seals frequently gather on its lower ledges, basking in the sun or diving into the water. Bird Rock is a vibrant spot teeming with life, offering visitors the chance to observe wildlife up close while enjoying the breathtaking coastal views that surround it.
Journey through the 17-Mile Drive, where the grandeur of nature meets human craftsmanship. Marvel at the Lone Cypress, an enduring symbol of resilience, perched on its rocky outlook. Drive through the Del Monte Forest, encompassing roads that twist and turn through towering trees, opening up to expansive ocean views that captivate the senses.
Visit the Restless Sea and Bird Rock, where you can observe the dynamic ocean interacting with marine wildlife. The area’s unique geological features, including tide pools and rocky shores, are teeming with life. Experience the thrill of spotting seals, sea lions, and myriad seabirds in their natural habitat as the ocean’s perpetual motion provides a constant backdrop.
Tee off at world-renowned golf courses like Pebble Beach Golf Links, where the perfect green fairways contrast sharply with the rough, craggy coastal cliffs. Beyond golf, the drive offers numerous stops like the Spanish Bay and Point Joe, where the Pacific Ocean’s mighty waves crash against rugged shores, often shrouded in mist, creating a mystical and almost otherworldly atmosphere.
Comfortable Clothing: The weather along 17-Mile Drive is unpredictable, with cool breezes and occasional fog. Wear layers, including a windbreaker or lightweight waterproof jacket, to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Comfortable Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers are essential for exploring trails, rocky viewpoints, and scenic stops along the drive.
Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are necessary to protect against the sun’s glare, especially with reflective light from the ocean and sand.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress, and picturesque golf courses. A fully charged device or extra battery is recommended for photography enthusiasts.
Binoculars: Perfect for wildlife viewing, whether it’s spotting seals, sea otters, or birds at overlooks like Bird Rock or Fanshell Overlook.
Snacks and Water: While some rest stops have amenities, bringing your own reusable water bottle and snacks ensures you stay refreshed during your journey.
Trash Bag: Keep the drive pristine by packing out any waste.
Camera: Capture the stunning desert scenery and wildlife with a camera or smartphone. Ensure your device has enough memory and battery life to last through your adventure.
Outdoor Gear: If you plan to camp or enjoy nighttime stargazing, include camping gear suitable for cold desert nights and a flashlight or headlamp.
First Aid Kit: Pack a basic kit with bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications. Consider including items for snake bites and heat exhaustion, given the park’s natural environment.