Pebble Beach’s 17-Mile Drive: The Best Stops on This California Coastal Route
Searching for the best 17 mile drive stops usually means one thing.
You’re planning a trip to Northern California and trying to figure out what this famous drive actually is and whether it deserves a spot on your Monterey Bay and Carmel by the Sea itinerary.
I’ll be honest. The first time I visited the area, I didn’t really know what the 17-Mile Drive was either. It wasn’t even in my original plan. That changed quickly when I mentioned my trip to a fellow travel blogger, and she immediately asked, “Are you going for the 17-Mile Drive?”
That one question sent me researching.
Once I experienced it for myself, I understood the hype. I’ve now driven the 17-Mile Drive twice, and I can confidently say it’s the most stunning short drive I’ve seen in California.
My guide walks you through the best stops, helpful tips, and personal highlights so you know exactly what to expect on your first visit.
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What is the 17-Mile Drive?
The 17-Mile Drive is a scenic road that winds through the exclusive and gated Pebble Beach golf community along the Monterey Peninsula. It connects Pacific Grove to Carmel-by-the-Sea and runs right along the Pacific Ocean for much of the route.
The drive is open to visitors daily from sunrise to sunset.
The cost is $12 per vehicle. That fee is reimbursed with a $35 purchase at any Pebble Beach Resort restaurant. Just keep your receipt and show it when you make a purchase.
There are officially 21 points of interest listed on the map, though most visitors focus on about half of them.
You can stop at every single one. Or you can be selective and still feel like you saw the best of it.
Where to Enter the 17-Mile Drive
There are five entrances to the drive. The most popular is the Pacific Grove Gate, especially for visitors coming from Monterey. We entered from Monterey, and it felt like a smooth and natural starting point.
Pick up the paper map at the gate. It shows all the stops and makes navigating simple.
Plan for two to three hours. The drive itself is easy. The stops are what slow you down, and that’s exactly what you want. Some pull-offs have larger parking areas than others, making it easy to stop without stress.
One important tip before you start. There are no places to stop for gas once you enter the drive. Fill up beforehand so you can relax and enjoy every stop.
First Impressions and Surprising Moments
Once you enter the drive, the first few stops are nothing spectacular; however, the farther you drive, the more in awe you will be.
One thing that surprised me was how quickly the weather changed when the coastal fog blew in. If this happens to you, don’t let it discourage you. The drive quickly became bright and sunny the longer we drove.
Much was happening beyond the ocean views.
Seeing golfers playing along the route, and wildlife sightings were more often than not.
As someone who visited the area specifically for whale watching in Monterey, I enjoyed the wildlife encounters.
Take time to read the signs at each stop. They offer interesting notes about the history, geology, and natural features in simple terms that add meaning to what you’re seeing.
I also loved driving past the massive homes tucked into the landscape. They’re elegant without being flashy, and it’s hard not to imagine what it would be like to wake up to those views every day.
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My Favorite 17-Mile Drive Stops
After driving this route twice, three stops stand above the rest.
The Lone Cypress
The Lone Cypress is the most iconic stop along the 17-Mile Drive and was my favorite. It’s easy to see why, and it’s not just because it’s famous.
This Monterey cypress is more than 250 years old and is widely considered the oldest of its kind. It’s also the official logo of Pebble Beach Golf Links.
You’ll see it everywhere once you know to look for it, on signage, merchandise, and course materials throughout Pebble Beach.
The boardwalk platform here makes it easy to slow down and really enjoy the view.
Standing there, watching the ocean below, felt peaceful. We spotted marine wildlife and deer nearby, which made the moment even better.
Whether it’s fog or sunshine, this stop feels timeless.
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Stopping at Pebble Beach Golf Links ended up being another one of my favorite parts of the drive. It’s the most beautiful golf course I’ve ever seen in person.
Walking around the grounds felt relaxed and welcoming.
The Visitor Center was especially enjoyable. I loved reading about previous tournament winners and learning more about the course’s history.
They even have fun photo spots, including a golf cart, which made it feel approachable and fun.
The Pro Shop is worth browsing, even if you’re just window shopping. The Lone Cypress logo is everywhere.
The Pebble Beach Equestrian Center is also nearby, which adds another unexpected stop. The Pebble Beach area is also a great place to stop for lunch and reimburse your entry fee.
The Restless Sea
The Restless Sea stop lives up to its name. Waves crash and swirl constantly against the rocks. It’s powerful and mesmerizing, and one of my personal favorites.
More 17-Mile Drive Stops You Shouldn’t Miss
There are many beautiful viewpoints along this drive. These are the ones that stand out most, especially for first-time visitors.
China Rock Vista Point
This stop delivers instant drama. Waves crash hard against the rocky coastline, and the views stretch endlessly. It’s a great early stop that sets the tone for the drive.
Bird Rock Vista Point
Bird Rock is lively and loud, in the best possible way. Seabirds cover the rocks, barking seals lounge below, and the energy from the sea pulls you in. I could sit here for an hour listening to and watching the seals in the water.
This is one of the most photographed stops on the 17 Mile Drive, and for good reason. There’s always something happening.
I found the chunkiest squirrel here, or maybe it was a chipmunk, I’m not sure. You could tell he had tasted many visitors’ picnic food.
Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point
The Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point feel completely different. Their pale, weathered branches look sculpted by time. This stop is quieter and more reflective, which makes it easy to linger.
Seal Rock Creek Beach
This stop offers a calmer vibe. The views are expansive and peaceful, with gentle waves and an open sky.
It’s a good place to slow down. You can take a short walk across the boardwalk to the Gingerbread houses. Stop for a picnic. Watch the water, and even visit the tide pools.
Fanshell Beach Overlook
Fanshell Beach is a protected pupping area for harbor seals.
Even when beach access is limited, the overlook is worth stopping for. It’s peaceful, and the signage explains why this area matters.
Crocker Grove
Crocker Grove is home to some of the tallest and oldest Monterey cypress trees in existence.
Driving through this area feels quiet and almost cathedral-like.
It’s one of the most serene sections of the drive.
Huckleberry Hill
Huckleberry Hill offers a completely different view.
From this elevated stop, you can sometimes see all the way inland to San Jose on a clear day. It’s shaded, calm, and a perfect picnic stop.
Things I’d Do Differently Next Time
One thing I wish I had done was bring a picnic.
There are so many beautiful pull-offs where a simple lunch would have been perfect.
Next time, I’d pack sandwiches, snacks, and a blanket and enjoy the views a little longer.
Of course, dining at Pebble Beach Resort is an option for you and an experience in itself. Remember, if you spend $35 or more at a Pebble Beach Resort restaurant, your entry fee will be reimbursed.
Finally, I can’t complain about my magnificent stay at Bernardus Lodge & Spa, but I would seriously consider booking one of the hotels in Pebble Beach, such as the Inn at Spanish Bay or the Lodge at Pebble Beach.
Staying right along the drive would make it easier to start early, linger at the quieter stops, and return in the evening without feeling rushed.
Another Way to Experience the 17-Mile Drive
Driving the route gives you the freedom to stop whenever something catches your eye, which is how I’ve enjoyed it. Still, driving isn’t the only way to see the best 17 Mile Drive stops.
For travelers who prefer a guided experience, a 17-Mile Drive e-bike tour from Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great option.
The electric bikes make the ride easy, and a local guide leads you to highlights like Spanish Bay, Bird Rock, Seal Rock, the Lone Cypress, and the Ghost Trees.
The tour runs about two and a half hours. It’s an especially nice fit for visitors staying in Carmel who want a relaxed, hands-free way to enjoy the coastline.
Spanish Bay and the Perfect Ending
We ended our day along the 17-mile drive at the Inn at Spanish Bay for drinks and dinner. I can’t think of a better way to spend the evening.
At sunset, a lone bagpiper walks the course, playing as the sun sinks into the horizon with Spanish Bay beach as his background.
We were mesmerized as he closed down the course with his sounds.
It felt classic, calm, and unforgettable.
That moment alone made the entire drive worthwhile.
Is the 17-Mile Drive Worth It?
Without hesitation, yes.
I went into my first visit curious. I left, already planning my return. The 17-Mile Drive isn’t just a scenic road. It’s an experience built from small, memorable moments that stay with you.
For anyone visiting Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea, this drive deserves space on your itinerary. Take it slow. Stop often. Watch the golfers. Look for wildlife. Stay for sunset.
You’ll understand why people keep coming back.
