17 Mile Drive is one of the most scenic drives in the world, featuring sparkling beaches, iconic cypress trees, rugged coastlines, and opulent mansions. This breathtaking route, situated along the Highway 1 Coastal Route between Carmel by the Sea and Monterey, guides you through the stunning Monterey Peninsula, the lush Del Monte Forest, and the exclusive community of Pebble Beach, California.

Many visitors choose to pay $11.25 for vehicle access to this renowned scenic route, but those who prefer to ride a bicycle or stroll along the 17-mile stretch can enjoy it for free!

Motorcycles are not permitted on 17 Mile Drive; therefore, instead of being confined to a car, we opted to cycle along this picturesque path. We took the journey in style on e-bikes, which allowed us to appreciate the scenic landscape while enjoying the comfort and speed akin to motorcycle riding without any fees!

Exploring 17 Mile Drive from Monterey and Pacific Grove to Carmel

Most travelers explore 17 Mile Drive by renting a car or embarking on a road trip. Consider checking car rental options at RentalCars.com.

17 Mile Drive Costs

• The entry fee is $11.25 for vehicles.
• Walking and cycling are free of charge.
• Motorcycles are prohibited on 17 Mile Drive.
• Dine at one of the 17-mile drive restaurants to receive a reimbursement of your entry fee.

Choosing Between Driving or Cycling Along 17 Mile Drive

Situated in the charming community of Pacific Grove, 17 Mile Drive is just a quick five-minute drive from Monterey. Meeting our guide at Big Sur Adventures on Cannery Row, we equipped ourselves with helmets, hydration, and top-of-the-line e-bikes.

Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, the breathtaking views along 17 Mile Drive are unforgettable. However, it is worth mentioning that traffic can be significant, making access to this captivating drive sometimes cumbersome.

By cycling, we discovered enhanced freedom, effortlessly weaving through stopped vehicles in congestion. Additionally, the e-bikes granted us the advantage of minimal effort while enjoying the thrill of pedal assistance for swift climbs. We covered substantial ground during our afternoon adventure.

These e-bikes are remarkably efficient! We maintained an average speed of 20 miles (32km) per hour without exertion. For those aspiring to zip between points of interest, the gears and throttle facilitate rapid speeds, even uphill. Thus, perspiration was at a minimum.

Highlights of What to See on 17 Mile Drive

With so many attractions to explore along 17 Mile Drive, we recommend dedicating an entire day to appreciate this scenic coastal expanse.

Here’s a summary of the attractions that await you along 17 Mile Drive and Ocean View Boulevard toward Carmel.

1. Lovers Point – Ocean Blvd

Lovers Point boasts a stunning beach adorned with picturesque rocky formations, making it a popular locale for locals to picnic, play beach volleyball, or catch some waves.

Prior to entering 17 Mile Drive, we took a moment to enjoy a few scenic overlooks along Ocean Boulevard, taking in the breathtaking views of the Monterey Peninsula. Our adventure began just outside Monterey, near the renowned Monterey Bay Aquarium, leading us to the entrance of Pebble Beach. Lover’s Point was a remarkable starting point to revel in the natural beauty of the coastline. Numerous pull-offs welcomed vehicles to enjoy uninterrupted views.

2. Pacific Grove Marine Gardens Conservation Area

While exploring the Pacific Grove Marine Gardens Conservation Area, our attention was captivated by a playful group of sea otters, frolicking in the surf along the Monterey Peninsula.

By the 1920s, sea otters had been nearly wiped out due to overhunting, leaving only about 50 survivors along the West Coast. Fortunately, there were reports of their survival near the famous Bixby Bridge area.

Thanks to the conservation efforts of the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Sea Otter program, sea otters are thriving again. We were heartened to witness several otters swimming and playing in the waves.

However, these adorable creatures still face threats from oil spills and food shortages. After enjoying the delightful sight of the playful otters, we hopped back onto our e-bikes and accelerated to our next attraction.

3. John Denver Memorial

It’s intriguing to learn about the celebrities who frequented the area.

Notably, Clint Eastwood served as the mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea in the 1980s, and nearly everyone we encountered shared captivating stories about local personalities.

We discovered that singer John Denver resided in the community for a year before his tragic passing in a plane crash off the coast. In 2007, a memorial was dedicated on the shores to honor his life and legacy.

4. Point Pinos Lighthouse

While passing lavish homes, our guide Joaquin pointed out the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse on the West Coast. Presently functioning to aid in navigating ships, daily tours are also available.

5. Pacific Grove Gate

We entered Pebble Beach through the Pacific Grove Gate without any delays, smoothly passing vehicles waiting to pay their entrance fee. Our bicycles offered us the freedom to explore the paid segment of 17 Mile Drive without constraint.

Utilizing our bikes, we navigated faster than many cars encumbered by traffic, allowing us to effortlessly enjoy all the iconic sights. Maps of 17 Mile Drive outlining 21 points of interest are available at the Visitor’s Center.

While there are many scenic attractions, those on a time crunch may want to prioritize a few must-see locations. These were our top recommendations.

6. Links at Spanish Bay

The Links Golf course at Spanish Bay is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque golf settings in the United States. Designed to protect and restore native dunes along the coast, it promotes regrowth of local plant life at Spanish Bay.

With an on-site nursery, over 100,000 native species are replanted each year, creating a lovely wild coastline. Established in 1987, The Links at Spanish Bay was the first Scottish-style golf course in America, devised by five-time British Open champion Tom Watson who commented, “Spanish Bay looked so much like Scotland, you could almost hear the bagpipes piping.” Since then, pipers have played each sunset as the last golfers finish their rounds.

7. Spanish Bay

Spanish Bay Beach serves as yet another stunning stop along a long stretch of scenic coastline. In the late 1700s, Spanish explorers camped here while searching for Monterey Bay, yet confusion and illness forced them to return home six months later without discovering their goal. Unbeknownst to them, they were quite nearby.

A year later, another discovery party finally found Monterey Bay, hidden in plain sight. Spanish Bay was named after the Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolà, who camped here in 1769, likewise failing to find what he sought.

Visitors can also stay at the Inn at Spanish Bay, overlooking The Links at Spanish Bay, and conveniently located near the Bird Rock Vista overlook.

8. China Rock

China Rock represents yet another striking viewpoint along the 17 Mile Drive, where a Chinese settlement constructed simple lean-to homes against the granite rocks during the 1800s.

9. Bird Rock

Our next destination was a beautiful lookout at Bird Rock. Joaquin recounted that it used to stand taller, but after extensive cleaning of bird excrement, the sea lions took over for a while. Now, abundant birdlife returns for excellent birdwatching opportunities.

10. Seal Rock

Seal Rock provides a splendid picnic area and invites you to stretch your legs and take leisurely strolls. Named after the harbor seals and sea lions inhabiting the area, it remains a popular stop.

11. Crocker Grove

While 17 Mile Drive is renowned for its aging Monterey cypress trees, just before reaching the Lone Cypress Point Lookout, we recommend a stop at Crocker Grove. Here, the cypress trees are thriving and are some of the largest and oldest in existence.

Preserved by Pebble Beach founder Samuel F.B. Morse, the area extends through 5,300 acres within the Del Monte Forest.

12. The Lone Cypress

We eagerly anticipated seeing the Lone Cypress at Cypress Point Lookout, widely regarded as an iconic image of 17 Mile Drive. This remarkable Monterey Cypress, perched on a rocky promontory, is undoubtedly famous, yet its actual allure was somewhat diminished upon our visit. Many photographers expertly frame and position the tree to create breathtaking visuals.

Nevertheless, the Lone Cypress remains a vital stop along the 17 Mile Drive, symbolizing Pebble Beach, California. This ancient tree, over 250 years old, now requires steel cables to support its branches. If visiting in the near future, ensure to explore this landmark, as its longevity remains uncertain.

13. Ghost Tree

Continuing along the route, we encountered the Ghost Tree, presenting a more captivating perspective. The sunset illuminates the Ghost Tree beautifully (in March), producing an enchanting scene.

The stark contrast between the living Lone Cypress and the Ghost Tree, with its bare branches and haunting silhouette, leaves a gripping impression. Local legend even suggests that the “Lady in Lace” appears at the Ghost Tree during foggy nights.

14. Mansions

The 17 Mile Drive showcases 21 points of interest, yet none highlight the extravagant $20-$40 million mansions that dot the coastline. With countless multimillion-dollar properties, we couldn’t help but wonder, “Who resides here?” It’s astonishing to ponder how such immense wealth exists in one place.

The houses along the 17 Mile Drive cater to the affluent, prompting entertaining musings about the residents behind their immaculately manicured hedges. Though stopping at each property would take an entire day, it’s undoubtedly fun to imagine their stories.

15. Pescadero Point

Before cycling on 17 Mile Drive, we surfed with the Carmel Surf Company on the picturesque sandy beach. Our instructor pointed out nearby Pebble Beach, and we were surprised to discover just how close 17 Mile Drive is to our surfing location.

The stop at Pescadero Point offered mesmerizing views of Carmel Bay and Stillwater Cove, serving as the perfect conclusion to our journey through the Pebble Beach community.

16. Pebble Beach Visitor Center

The Pebble Beach Visitor Center reveals the intriguing history of 17 Mile Drive, starting from its origin as a carriage road in 1881. The center showcases 20 exhibits with interactive maps, an outdoor patio, and refreshments. Hours: 8 AM to 7 PM.

17. Pebble Beach Golf Links

Among several top-tier golf courses at Pebble Beach, The Pebble Beach Golf Links has received acclaim as one of the country’s premier public golf courses, as confirmed by Golf Digest, and hosted the 2019 US Open.

• Other Notable Golf Courses:
  • Pebble Beach Golf Links
  • Spyglass Hill Golf Course
  • Del Monte Golf Course
  • Pebble Beach Golf Academy

Peter Hay Par-3 Golf Course – For those who prefer a shorter experience, the only Par 3 course in the region allows you to enjoy golfing without attempting a full 18 holes. Be sure to visit the 100th U.S. Open Monument, commemorating Tiger Woods’ famous win in 2000, as well as the previous 99 champions of the 20th century.

18. The Lodge at Pebble Beach

Lodge at Pebble Beach – Established in 1919, The Lodge at Pebble Beach serves as a wonderful halt along your scenic drive. If your budget allows, consider spending the night here, as it’s within walking distance of several attractions along the 17 Mile drive, including Point Joe and Fanshell Overlook.

This lavish establishment has been renovated to offer five-star luxury, providing magnificent views of the 18th hole on the pristine golf course by the sea.

19. Mission Ranch

We also took a detour to visit Clint Eastwood’s renowned ranch. The Mission Ranch dates back to the 1800s and was preserved by Eastwood during his tenure as mayor of Carmel when it was under threat of development.

Today, it operates as a hotel and restaurant on 22 acres, with sheep grazing in the meadow, making it popular among visitors.

A visit to this site is often recommended, as locals eagerly inquire whether you visited Clint Eastwood’s ranch.

Pebble Beach Equestrian Center

Although we didn’t ride during our 17 Mile Drive journey, we encountered numerous horses throughout our visit. The Pebble Beach Equestrian Center offers guided tours through 27 miles of trails in the Del Monte Forest, culminating in a Coastal Trail that promises delightful coastal picnics. This activity has now been added to our itinerary for our next visit!

20. Pebble Beach Food and Wine Event

If your travels bring you to the region in April, be sure to check out the annual Pebble Beach Food & Wine Event, a much-anticipated tradition since 2008. Over 100 celebrity chefs collaborate with 250 wineries to set up tasting rooms, offering a festival of wine tastings and culinary pairings.

21. Huckleberry Hill

Though we didn’t reach Huckleberry Hill, if time allows, consider venturing to this scenic overlook, situated 800 feet above sea level, providing stunning views of the Del Monte Forest. This location is positioned at the Highway-1 Gate, past Shephard’s Knoll, and is said to be a favorite viewpoint of John Steinbeck on 17 Mile Drive.

22. Carmel by the Sea

After cycling past the Lodge at Pebble Beach and the Pebble Beach Golf Links, we made our way through the peaceful back streets leading to our accommodations.

Our exploration concluded in the charming town of Carmel. We recommend spending the night here, as it is rich with activities, ranging from shopping in delightful boutiques to savoring world-class dining, making it a perfect romantic getaway. For more details, check out The Best Things to do in Carmel by the Sea

Best Accommodation Options on 17 Mile Drive

We enjoyed a lovely two-day stay in Carmel before setting out on our journey along the Pacific Coast Highway 1. Numerous accommodations are available in Carmel, and Monterey, the nearby town, also offers lodging very close to Pebble Beach.

The Hideaway

We cherished our time at The Hideaway Hotel in Carmel, but there are several additional lodging options we would like to highlight.

The Hideaway is conveniently located just half a mile from the beach and also centrally positioned downtown.

Inn at Spanish Bay – Located adjacent to the Links Golf Course, this resort features rooms furnished with cozy fireplaces along with extensive dining options at this luxurious 5-star establishment overlooking Spanish Bay.

Casa Palermo – Located at the Pebble Beach Golf and Links, this Mediterranean Style accommodation promises 24 elegant rooms alongside a renowned spa, golf privileges, and luxurious amenities.

Dining Options Along 17 Mile Drive

La Balena Cucina Toscana

Thanks to its central position in Carmel, we were just a quick walk from our dinner reservations at La Balena Cucina Toscana Carmel. Juniper Street buzzes with popular restaurants and cafes, and both The Hideaway and La Balena are situated along this vibrant corridor.

La Balena was our top dining experience throughout the trip. The ambiance was exceptional as we enjoyed dinner on their outdoor terrace, warmed by heat lamps. Helmed by Chef Emanuel Bartolini and his wife, this restaurant elegantly presents Tuscan cuisine.

With our extensive travels in Tuscany, we felt perfectly at home, indulging in fresh burrata with olive oil, gnocchi with truffles, and savory spaghetti Neri featuring clams, mussels, and prawns immersed in a zesty tomato chili broth.

Pebble Beach Dining

While we dined outside of Pebble Beach, plenty of dining options are available within the 17-mile drive, and if you spend time at any of the Pebble Beach Company restaurants, you can receive reimbursement for your gate fee. Many visitors opt to picnic at one of the beaches or designated picnic areas.

The most popular picnic sites include Seal Rock and Point Joe. Consider packing a lunch to fully embrace the outdoor experience. If you prefer convenience, visit the Pebble Beach Market for gourmet picnic fare.

Frequently Asked Questions About 17 Mile Drive

What is the cost to drive along 17 Mile Drive?

Walking or cycling along 17 Mile Drive is free. For vehicle entry, the fee is $11.25 at the gate. However, if you spend $35 or more at Pebble Beach resorts restaurants, excluding Pebble Beach Market, you will receive a reimbursement for your entry fee. Motorcycles are prohibited on 17 Mile Drive.

Where does 17 Mile Drive begin?

17 Mile Drive commences at the Pacific Grove Gate in Pebble Beach, California. If you’re driving south from San Francisco along Highway 1, take the exit towards CA 68 West to Pebble Beach, following signs to the Pacific Grove Pebble Beach Gate entrance.

Our journey began at Big Sur Adventures in Monterey, leading us around Ocean View Boulevard to Sunset Drive before reaching the official entrance of 17 Mile Drive at Pebble Beach Gate.

Additionally, 17 Mile Drive can also be accessed via Country Club Gate, Carmel Gate, S.F.B. Morse Gate, or Highway 1 Gate.

How much time should I allocate to see 17 Mile Drive?

While it’s possible to navigate through the 17 miles fairly quickly, we recommend dedicating about three to four hours to fully absorb the sights. Enjoy lunch in Pebble Beach to make it a delightful day. With beaches, scenic vistas, and multiple locations perfect for sunset viewing, you won’t be short of treats.

Is there accommodation available along 17 Mile Drive?

Three luxurious Pebble Beach resorts are located along 17 Mile Drive: the Inn at Spanish Bay, Casa Palmero, and the Lodge at Pebble Beach.

What are the operational hours for 17 Mile Drive?

17 Mile Drive is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. Guests staying at Pebble Beach resorts enjoy 24/7 access. The gates to Pebble Beach are monitored around the clock.

• For further information about 17 Mile Drive, Carmel, and Monterey, visit the See Monterey Website.
• EBiking tours of 17 Mile Drive start at $59 per person.
• To find accommodations, check out The Hideaway for availability and pricing.

During our journey through California, we partnered with Visit California. For extensive insights on California travel and itineraries, visit their website. All opinions expressed are genuinely ours.