The Best Stops Along The 17-Mile Drive In Monterey, California

The 17-Mile Drive winds along the Monterey Peninsula and shows off some of the most stunning coastal views in California. Beyond the scenery, you’ll find world-famous golf courses, luxury resorts, and plenty of beautiful stops along the way. It’s definitely a stop to add to your Monterey itinerary.

During our first visit, we spent the first half of the day exploring the Big Sur coast. This gave us limited time by the time we started the 17-Mile Drive and we found ourselves passing by several of the stops. We did, however, have perfect weather. Bright blue skies, calm waves, and a light breeze. A perfect early fall day.

On our second visit, the coast had a totally different mood. The skies were gray, the waves were wild, and a light drizzle followed us most of the day. But honestly? It was beautiful in its own way. The fog gave everything a dramatic, moody feel, and we made efforts to see every stop this time and discovered a few new gems we’d missed the first time.

In my updated guide I share photography and notes from both visits. I include stops I feel are worth the visit, tips, and have expanded the guide to include more about the surrounding areas. So, sit back and enjoy the ride along the 17-Mile Drive!

Entire post updated November 2025. Images are from September 2019 and October 2025 visits.

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Complete Guide to All 17 Stops on the 17-Mile Drive (Plus My Favorite Spots Worth a Stop)

There are 17 official stops along the 17-Mile Drive, plus a few unmarked viewpoints worth a quick pull-off. While every stop offers scenic coastal views, only a handful truly stand out. In this guide, you’ll find notes on each stop from must-see stops to historic background. This journey assumes you starts and ends at the Highway 1 Gate, putting you closest to the first and last official stops.

1: Shepherd’s Knoll – A Forested Overlook With Distant Bay Views

Shepherd’s Knoll is the first official stop along the 17-Mile Drive, set high above in a forest of Monterey pines. This viewpoint is named after railroad man Abraham D. Shepard, who helped build the upper scenic route through the forest. Due to a typo on an early map that had illustrations of sheep, the name “Shepherd’s Knoll” accidentally stuck.

There’s a turnout here with space for a few cars and informational signage that shares a bit about the area. You’ll find forest views, and on a clear day catch a glimpse of Monterey Bay in the distance. While the viewpoint isn’t as dramatic as the coastal stops ahead, it offers a peaceful, quiet start to your drive.

• 📸 Photo Tip: On a clear day, you can capture Monterey Bay in the distance.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Skip if you’re short on time; this one’s easy to admire as you drive by.
• 📍Good to Know: The parking area is just a small turnout and easy to miss.
• 🚙 Distance from entrance: About a 3-minute drive

🧭 Nearby Destinations: Pacific Grove
Just outside the northern entrance to the 17-Mile Drive lies the charming coastal town of Pacific Grove. Known for its monarch butterflies, Victorian homes, and stunning Monterey Peninsula views, this seaside gem offers a quieter alternative to busy Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea. It’s also perfectly located if you plan to drive the 17-Mile Drive from north to south.

Things to Do in Pacific Grove:
– Visit the Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary (best in fall and early winter)
– Stroll Lovers Point Beach or rent a bike for the coastal trail
– Catch the sunset at Point Pinos Lighthouse

See: The beautiful Queen Anne–style architecture, the Monarch Butterfly statue, and the walkable downtown Pacific Grove area

Eat: Grab coffee at The Bookworks, brunch at Red House Café, or enjoy ocean-view bites at Lovers Point Beach Café. Don’t miss a creative hot dog at Lucy’s on Lighthouse.

Stay: Cozy up at Green Gables Inn, Gosby House Inn, or the Martine Inn, all charming bed-and-breakfasts near the coast.
 

2: Huckleberry Hill – Scenic Viewpoint Along the Monterey Coast Drive

Set aside as a permanently preserved forest, this elevated viewpoint is filled with native huckleberry bushes and Monterey pines. It’s rumored to have been a favorite spot for writers Robert Louis Stevenson and John Steinbeck, who both found inspiration in the area’s quiet beauty.

Huckleberry Hill is one of the highest viewpoints along the 17-Mile Drive, offering peaceful forest views and, on a clear day, distant glimpses of Santa Cruz across the bay.

• 📸 Photo Tip: Best for wide shots that capture the rolling forest canopy.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: A quick drive-by is fine if you’re short on time; the best views lie ahead.
• 📍Good to Know: The turnout blends into the road and can be easy to miss.
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: About a 4-minute drive.

3: Spanish Bay – Windswept Dunes and Ocean Views Along the 17-Mile Drive

This stretch of rugged coastline features windswept dunes, a wide sandy beach, and boardwalk paths that are perfect for a stroll or a sunset view. Named after Spanish explorers who camped here in the mid-1700s while searching for Monterey Bay, this is one of the most story-filled and beautiful destinations along the 17-Mile Drive. It’s a peaceful place to watch the surf, stroll the boardwalk, spot surfers, or simply relax to the sound of the waves.

• 📸 Photo Tip: Capture the boardwalk, the pebbled beach, and the windy surf, great for moody, coastal shots.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Definitely worth a stop! You can spend a good amount of time enjoying the views and walking along the beach.
• 📍Good to Know: There’s ample parking nearby, including a large lot and street-side turnouts along the coast.
• 🚫 Respect the Coast: You may see stacked rocks (cairns) on the beach. While they can look cool, it’s best not to add to them; stacking rocks can harm the natural habitats of creatures living on the beach.
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: Roughly a 10-minute drive.

🏨 Notable Nearby Destination:
Beside the beach sits The Inn at Spanish Bay, part of the Pebble Beach Resorts collection. Each evening at sunset, a Scottish bagpiper walks the fairways of the golf course, signaling the end of the day with traditional tunes. This experience is open to the public and is said to be one of the most memorable ways to end your visit along the 17-Mile Drive. We had hoped to experience this ourselves, but our most recent visit brought stormy skies, so it’s still on our list for next time.

Want more California coast? Check out my post on A Quick Trip to Big Sur to see more must-see coastal scenery.

4: The Restless Sea – One of Pebble Beach’s Wildest Coastal Views

Living up to its name, the Restless Sea is one of the 17-Mile Drive’s most turbulent stretches of coastline along Pebble Beach. The large, submerged rock formations just offshore create dramatic, churning surf that constantly crashes into each other, making for an unforgettable coastal view, especially on windy days.

Just before this stop, you’ll see turnout for Spanish Bay Vista Point and Point Joe, the fifth stop along the 17-Mile Drive; both are connected by walkways if you want to hit up all three stops without getting back in the car.

• 📸 Photo Tip: Capture the crashing waves and swirling surf. A telephoto lens would help capture dramatic shots of the churning water.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: I think this is a great stop as the views feel different enough from the nearby Spanish Bay, and the dramatic crashing waves are fun to watch.
• 📍Good to Know: This area can be very windy, so hold onto your hat and camera. There are additional turnouts nearby if the main lot is full.
• 🚙 Distance from Last Stop: About a 2-minute drive from Spanish Bay.

5: Point Joe – Granite Coastline With a Storied Past

Point Joe is one of the more intriguing stops along the 17-Mile Drive, both for its dramatic coastline and its history. Early mariners often mistook Point Joe for the entrance to Monterey Bay, which led to several shipwrecks along this rocky shore. The point is comprised of 60-million-year-old granite, giving the coastline its rugged appearance. 

Local legend speaks of a man named Joe from the early 1900s who lived in a driftwood hut in the area, selling trinkets to tourists and tending to goats. It’s debated whether the point was named after him or if he took his name from the location.

• 📸 Photo Tip: The granite coastline is dramatic on cloudy, moody days. Wide-angle shots work best to capture the rocks and waves.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Visiting one of the stops in this area is probably enough, as the views aren’t dramatically different.
• 📍 Good to Know: Point Joe is connected to The Restless Sea through a walkway, so it’s quite easy to visit both stops in one visit. Each stop has a small turnout parking area. 
• 🚙 Distance from Last Stop: Under a minute drive from The Restless Sea.
• 💡 Fun Fact: A nearby golf course has a hole that includes a starting point between the rocky formations. You might get to witness golfers in action during your visit.

6: China Rock – Historic Chinese Fishing Village on the 17-Mile Drive

China Rock was once the site of a small Chinese fishing village in the late 1800s. Fishermen lived in shelters along the coastline, harvesting abalone and fish to support their community. Today, you can still see century-old cooking smoke caked onto the rocks, a reminder of the early Chinese immigrants who lived and worked here. China Rock is quieter and less crowded than some of the more popular viewpoints, making it a peaceful stop to soak in history and scenery.

• 📸 Photo Tip: Capture the smoke-stained rocks up close, or use a wide-angle shot to show the jagged coastline meeting the surf.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Worth a stop if you enjoy history and want a quieter viewpoint along the drive. However, the view isn’t too different from the previous coastal viewpoints. 
• 📍 Good to Know: This is a brief viewpoint with a small turnout; watch for other vehicles when parking.
• 🚙 Distance from Last Stop: About a 2-minute drive from Point Joe.
• 💡 Fun Fact: The blackened rocks from cooking fires are nearly 150 years old, giving a direct link to the early settlers who lived here.

🧭 Nearby Destinations: Carmel-by-the-Sea
The charming seaside village of Carmel-by-the-Sea (often simply called Carmel) is a quirky town full of character, creativity, and fairytale charm. Located just south of the 17-Mile Drive, it’s easy to visit as a day trip from Monterey or as a relaxing weekend getaway.

When I say quirky, I mean it. Carmel doesn’t use traditional street addresses; instead, homes are described by their location and often given whimsical names, much like boats. You also won’t find any street lights here, adding to the cozy, storybook feel. As you explore, you’ll also discover 41 hidden courtyards and alleyways weaving through the village, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants—it’s one of the most unique small towns in California.

Things to Do in Carmel-by-the-Sea:
– Visit Carmel Beach for scenic ocean views and sunset strolls
– Find the Fairytale Cottages (pick up a guide at the visitor center)
– Shop and dine along Ocean Avenue

See: The 41 courtyards and secret passageways, the Fairytale Cottages, and the Seashell Mural.

Eat: La Bicyclette, Pizza Heaven, Cultura, Treehouse Cafe, and JeJu Kitchen

Stay: The Carmel Mission Inn, Le Petit Pali on Ocean Ave., or The Stillwell Hotel
 

7: Bird Rock – Coastal Wildlife and a Handy Rest Stop

Bird Rock is one of the liveliest stops along the 17-Mile Drive, a wildlife hotspot. Harbor seals, belching sea lions, and seabirds crowd the jagged granite rocks, creating a dramatic scene against the crashing waves. It’s also the only stop along the 17-Mile Drive with a public bathroom.

• 📸 Photo Tip: A telephoto lens would help you capture stunning shots of seals lounging and seabirds in flight. 
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Definitely a stop. The views are great, but having a bathroom for a quick break is really nice. 
• 📍 Good to Know: Bird Rock is the only public restroom along the 17-Mile Drive, and the parking area is ample and clearly marked.
• 💡 Fun Fact: Until the 1930s, Bird Rock was covered in 4–5 feet of pelican and cormorant guano, harvested as fertilizer. Sea lions quickly claimed the rocks afterward, and they’ve been sunbathing there ever since.
• 🦭 Seasonal Tip: From November through March, watch the ocean for spouts and flukes of migrating gray whales.
• 🚙 Distance from Last Stop: About a 3-minute drive from China Rock.

8: Seal Rock – Tucked-Away Beach and Tide Pools

Located at the mouth of Seal Rock Creek, Seal Rock is a wide expanse of white sand beach. You can explore the beach via a turnout with a staircase leading you down to the shore, or for a quick visit, you can stop at Seal Rock Overlook or take the trail that starts at Bird Rock for a longer experience. The rain was coming down and it was close to high tide so we stopped for a quick photo and kept moving on for this stop.

• 📸 Photo Tip: Capture the tide pools up close, the waves crashing over the rocky shore, or the nearby colorful Gingerbread House for a mix of natural and man-made scenery.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Worth a stop, ideal for a short walk, picnic, or exploring tide pools, especially for families or photographers.
• 📍Good to Know: Parking is limited but available near the beach. Wear sturdy shoes if exploring tide pools, as the rocks can be slippery.
• 💡Fun Fact: Seal Rock is named for the harbor seals that frequent the area, often seen lounging on the rocks or swimming near the shore.
• 🚙 Distance from Last Stop: About a 2-minute drive from Bird Rock.

🏨 Notable Nearby Destination: The famous Gingerbread House, a historical landmark and popular photo-op known for its multi-colored roof, is located nearby along The Dunes Road. 

9: Fanshell Beach Overlook – White Sand Views & Harbor Seal Habitat on the 17-Mile Drive

This scenic stretch of coastline combines white sand beaches, rugged rock formations, and sweeping ocean views, making it one of the most photogenic stops along the 17-Mile Drive. Fanshell Beach is also one of the primary pupping habitats for harbor seals on California’s central coast. The beach is closed between April and June to protect mother seals and their pups, but you can still enjoy views from the Fanshell Beach Overlook, the official stop along the drive. This can be a peaceful destination to spot wildlife and soak in coastal scenery, but if the weather is windy and stormy, you can see dramatic waves.

There is a small parking lot turnout near the beach that provides a staircase down to the sand when the beach is open. If you continue, you’ll find a larger parking lot with informational signage and panoramic views of both Fanshell Beach and a smaller beach cove on the other side of the overlook.

• 📸 Photo Tip: The overlook offers beautiful vantage points for sunrise and midday shots of the turquoise surf and white sand.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Worth a stop, especially if you love wildlife or scenic beaches.
• 📍 Good to Know: The beach is closed during harbor seal pupping season (April–June). Parking is limited, so arrive early during peak hours.
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: Roughly 5 minutes.

Check out my San Francisco to Big Sur 5-Day Itinerary to see more epic California adventures like the 17-Mile drive.

10: Cypress Point Lookout – Scenic Overlook and Seal Habitat Along the 17-Mile Drive

Cypress Point Lookout offers sweeping ocean views and one of the best west-facing vantage points for sunset along the 17-Mile Drive. This area is also home to harbor seals, which use the nearby coves for pupping between April and June. During this time, the surrounding area is closed to protect the seals and their pups.

The coastline here is dramatic and beautiful, framed by rugged cliffs and windswept cypress trees. However, visitors should know that the main viewing area is fenced off, the chain-link barrier is there to protect wildlife and private property, but it does obstruct the view.

The surrounding neighborhood, known as Sunset Point. It dates back to the Roaring Twenties and is filled with historic mansions perched above the surf. Early explorers, including Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo in the 1500s, noted the striking cypress trees and rocky shorelines that define this stretch of coast – a scene that remains largely unchanged today.

• 📸 Photo Tip: Bring a telephoto lens if you want to photograph the seals from behind the fence.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Skip unless you’re visiting during seal pupping season and want to see that.
• 📍 Good to Know: The beach and immediate area are closed April–June to protect harbor seals. Respect closures and observe from a distance.
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: About a 3-minute drive.

11: Crocker Grove – Home to the Oldest Monterey Cypress Trees on Earth

Crocker Grove is a quiet, forested area that holds some of the oldest and largest Monterey Cypress trees in existence, some nearly 300 years old. This grove is named after Charles Crocker, the railroad magnate who helped establish the original 17-Mile Drive in 1881 and built the luxurious Hotel Del Monte in Monterey.

This stop feels more like a forest sanctuary, a little break from coastal views along your drive. It’s a nice spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the trees.

• 💡 Fun Fact:  Pebble Beach contains one of only two native Monterey Cypress forests in the world. The other is across Carmel Bay at Point Lobos State Park.
• 📸 Photo Tip: Great spot to capture the texture and beauty of cypress trees up close.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Worth a brief stop if you like trees. We passed by it on our first visit, and I am glad we stopped to see it on our second.
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: Roughly 2–3 minutes.

12: The Lone Cypress – Pebble Beach’s Most Iconic Landmark on the 17-Mile Drive

It’s no surprise the famous Lone Cypress tree is the most photographed destination along the 17-Mile Drive. Standing solo on a rocky cliff high above the Pacific, this iconic tree has been rumored to have braved the strong coastal winds and ocean spray for over 250 years. 

The Long Cypress has been used in the official logo of Pebble Beach Resorts since its founding in 1919, and is also one of the most photographed trees in North America. While you can see the tree from the parking lot, we found it best to walk down the dedicated viewing deck to get a much closer view and vantage point for photos. 

On our second and most recent visit we arrived during golden hour just as the sun began to break through the moody, gray skies that followed us all afternoon. The light was cinematic, casting the perfect glow over the cliffs and sea. A stunning view anytime, but with the golden light it was quite memorable.

• 📸 Photo Tip: Golden hour is a perfect time to visit this iconic tree.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: Absolutely stop, this is one of the most iconic viewpoints in California.
• 📍 Good to Know: There is a viewing deck a short walk from the parking lot. There is a staircase that takes you down to the deck, so it’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. 
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: Less than 5 minutes.

13: Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point – The Haunting Coastline of Pebble Beach

This is one of the most hauntingly beautiful spots along the 17-Mile Drive. The Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point are a cluster of sun-bleached Monterey cypress trees, their twisted, leafless branches giving off an eerie, almost otherworldly vibe. It’s also famous for being a legendary Big Wave surf spot where the swells can reach up to 50 feet in winter conditions. We found this to be another epic sunset spot, too.

• 📸 Photo Tip: Visit during golden hour or under overcast skies for moody, high-contrast photos that bring out the ghostly look of the trees. Capture them in silhouette against the background, or up close to show the twisted, unique texture of the trees.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: We like this stop and think it’s worth your time, especially if you catch a sunset. It’s the last coastal view along the drive.
• 📍 Good to Know: There is limited parking. Please stay within the path area; the cliff area can be dangerous and the ocean conditions can change quickly.
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: About 2–3 minutes.

14: Pebble Beach Visitor Center – Learn the Story Behind the Drive

The Pebble Beach Visitor Center is a newer addition to the 17-Mile Drive experience, offering visitors a chance to learn the rich history of this iconic area. From its beginnings as a simple stopping point on a scenic carriage ride to its rise as the Golf Capital of the World, the center brings Pebble Beach’s story to life.

We haven’t had a chance to visit yet, but it seems like a great stop if your timing aligns with their open hours. One strategy is to start the drive from a higher-numbered stop entry point, so you can visit the center early in your day before continuing along the route.

• ⭐ Stop or Skip: If you catch them while they’re open, I always think a visitor center is worth a visit, even if it’s just a quick stop.
• 📍 Good to Know: Opened recently, it’s designed for guests from all over the world, and it’s a great place to get maps, learn about local history, and see exhibits before hitting the scenic stops.

🧭 Nearby Destinations: Monterey
Just north of the 17-Mile Drive sits Monterey, one of California’s most famous coastal towns and a must-stop on any Monterey Peninsula itinerary. It’s best known for its world-class aquarium, historic Cannery Row, and breathtaking ocean views along the coast.

Things to Do in Monterey:
– Visit the iconic Monterey Bay Aquarium, home to sea otters, jellyfish, and exhibits that make you feel like you’re under the ocean.
– Stroll Cannery Row, lined with oceanfront restaurants, galleries, and shops in repurposed sardine-packing buildings.
– Hunt for treasures at the Cannery Row Antique Mall, a huge multi-level space packed with vintage finds and local collectibles.

See: Historic Old Fisherman’s Wharf, whales on a whale watching tour, and marine life along the bay (you might spot sea lions or otters! We saw a few playing in the surf).

Eat: Brunch at Wave Street Cafe or Rosine’s, The Sardine Factory if you like seafood, Alvarado Street Brewery, and get ice cream from Revival

Stay: For a classic coastal stay, try Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa, Spindrift Inn, or the boutique Wave Street Inn.
 

15: Pebble Beach Golf Links – Legendary Coastal Golf

No visit along the 17‑Mile Drive is complete without a stop at Pebble Beach Golf Links, one of the most iconic golf courses in the world. Opened in 1919, this course has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and offers jaw-dropping views of the rugged coastline, crashing waves, and manicured greens. 

• 📍Good to Know: The course is private, but the scenic viewpoints along the edge of the property are open to the public. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal for photos.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: We skipped this stop as we have no interest in golf.
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: About a 1-minute drive.

16: The Hay – Pebble Beach’s Short Course Highlight

The Hay has been a hub of Pebble Beach Resorts since 1957. This short course welcomes all skill levels and doesn’t have a strict dress code. Originally designed by professional golfer Peter Hay, it received a redesign in 2021 by Tiger Woods. Even if you don’t play, nearby Hay’s Place is a lovely spot to pause, recap your drive, and take in views of the surrounding coastline.

• 📍Good to Know: The Stop numbering on the 17‑Mile Drive can vary depending on the brochure edition. Older versions list Stop 16 as the Pebble Beach Equestrian Center, while newer maps show Stop 16 as The Hay. This post follows the numbering on the most recent official brochure.
• ⭐ Stop or Skip: We skipped this view as we have no interest in golf.
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: About a 1-minute drive.

17: Ford Meadow – Scenic Finish Along the 17-Mile Drive

Ford Meadow is the final stop along the 17-Mile Drive and a peaceful way to wrap up your journey. This is a serene drive through the forest with several turnout points where you can park to admire the beauty. The official parking area with signage is near the intersection of Del Ciervo Road. I noticed it doesn’t come up in my map apps.

• ⭐ Stop or Skip: This one could be a scenic drive-by, but an easy stop if you need to stretch your legs or want to take in one last view before you go. 
• 📸 Photo Tip: Capture the contrast of the green meadow against the ocean backdrop or the golden light near sunset.
• 🚙 Distance from last stop: Roughly 7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 17-Mile Drive

What is the 17-Mile Drive?

A stunning inland and coastal drive through private property and golf resorts that is open to the public. It’s a must-see spot for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone exploring the Monterey Peninsula.

Where is the 17-Mile Drive?

The 17-Mile Drive is part of the Del Monte Forest and runs through the coastal California towns of Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove and is surrounded by other popular destinations like Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

What’s the best time to visit the 17-Mile Drive?

The 17-Mile Drive is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a slightly different experience.

🌸 Spring: Mild temperatures and colorful wildflowers line the coast. Crowds are moderate, making this one of the best times for photos and relaxed exploration.

☀️ Summer: Expect warm weather but also foggy, gray skies, Californians call it June Gloom and No Sky July. It’s also the busiest season, so plan for more traffic and higher accommodation prices.

🍂 Fall: Typically the sunniest and clearest time of year, with fewer tourists and comfortable temps. You might still encounter light coastal haze, but overall, it’s a fantastic time to visit.

🌊 Winter: The quietest and most dramatic season, with cooler air and powerful surf. It’s ideal for photographers who love moody skies and fewer crowds.

✨ Best Overall Time: Late September through early November has fewer crowds, golden light, and some of the best weather for exploring and photography along the Monterey coastline.

How do you enter the 17-Mile Drive?

There are five official entry gates: Highway 1 Gate (north), Pacific Grove Gate, Country Club Gate, S.F.B. Morse Gate, and Carmel Gate (south). We personally recommend entering through the Highway 1 Gate as this is the closest gate to the first stop and the last. Each gate provides a brochure and map, and you can pay the entry fee by card or cash.

What is the history of the 17-Mile Drive?

The area has a rich and varied history, from early 1800s Chinese fishing villages to Spanish explorers who mistook this stretch for Monterey Bay in the mid-1700s. The 17-Mile Drive began development in the late 1800s and has since evolved into one of California’s most scenic destinations; home to world-class golf, wildlife, and coastal beauty.

How long does it take to drive the 17-Mile Drive?

It depends on the experience you want:

• ⏱️ 45 mins–1 hour: You’re just driving through the views and maybe want to stop at one or two of them for a quick photo op.
• 🚗 2–3 hours: You want to drive to all the points at a relaxed pace and stop at several of them for photo ops.
• 🌅 Half-day (4+ hours): Casually visit all the stops, stop and eat lunch, and maybe catch the sunset bag piper performance.
• 🏖️ Full day (8+ hours): You want to take your time visiting points, maybe play a round of golf, grab lunch or a spa visit.
• 🏨 Overnight+: Spending an overnight or longer gives you time to explore everything the area has to offer. You can see all the stops, catch a sunrise and sunset, play golf or other activities, shop, visit the spa, and more.

Is the 17-Mile Drive worth visiting?

Absolutely! Whether you’re into photography, ocean views, or iconic California road trips, the 17-Mile Drive is one of the most scenic coastal routes in the U.S. It’s easy to access, flexible for any schedule, and full of memorable stops.

I don’t golf & I’m not rich: will I feel out of place on the 17-Mile Drive?

I don’t think so. In our experiences, we hardly even noticed the golf and luxury resorts. You do see some mega expensive homes along the drive, but you kind of see that along most coastal drives in California so it didn’t feel any different. The drive welcomes the public, so feel free to visit and enjoy!

Is there an entrance fee for the 17-Mile Drive?

Yes. As of Fall 2025, the fee is $12.25 per vehicle through any entrance gate. That fee is reimbursed with a $35 purchase at any Pebble Beach Resort restaurant (except the Pebble Beach Market).

• Tour buses: $6 per person
• Motorcycles: Not permitted
• Overnight guests of The Lodge at Pebble Beach, The Inn at Spanish Bay, and Casa Palmero receive complimentary admission.

Can you walk or bike the 17-Mile Drive?

Yes! Walking and biking are both free to enter. Just remember, it’s a long route — 17 miles one way — so plan accordingly.

Where to Stay, Eat, and Relax Along the 17-Mile Drive

Where to Stay Near the 17-Mile Drive

If you want to turn your 17-Mile Drive visit into a full getaway, there are a few incredible Pebble Beach resorts right inside the gates. Overnight guests even get complimentary access to the 17-Mile Drive.

• The Lodge at Pebble Beach Iconic oceanfront stay steps from the 18th hole of Pebble Beach Golf Links.
• The Inn at Spanish Bay Stunning coastal views, upscale rooms, and home to the famous sunset bagpiper performance.
• Casa Palmero A romantic, Mediterranean-style hideaway perfect for couples and spa lovers.
• Fairway One at The Lodge Spacious guest rooms and cottages overlooking the golf course.

These luxury hotels inside Pebble Beach are world-famous; but if you’re visiting on a budget, you’ll find charming and more affordable places to stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Pacific Grove, or Monterey, all just minutes away.

Where to Eat and Drink in Pebble Beach

There’s no shortage of great restaurants along the 17-Mile Drive, from casual ocean-view bites to fine dining. Here are a few that caught our eye for future visits:

• Hay’s Place Mexican-inspired fare with scenic views of The Hay short course.
• Pèppoli at Pebble Beach Northern Italian cuisine with a Tuscan-style ambiance.
• The Tap Room A cozy pub with hearty appetizers and an extensive drink list.

You’ll also find grab-and-go options at the Pebble Beach Visitor Center and Pebble Beach Market.

💡 Tip: Spend $35 or more at select Pebble Beach restaurants, and your 17-Mile Drive gate fee is reimbursed.

Things to Do and Relaxing Experiences in Pebble Beach

Even if you’re not a golfer, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a day (or weekend) inside Pebble Beach. From scenic strolls to spa treatments and boutique shopping, the 17-Mile Drive area offers more than just stunning views.

Golfing in Pebble Beach

Even if you don’t play, it’s worth visiting the legendary golf courses that make Pebble Beach one of California’s most iconic destinations. Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill, and The Links at Spanish Bay are among the world’s most beautiful courses, each offering ocean views, pro shops, and clubhouse dining. Not a pro? Consider The Hay Short Course A fun, beginner-friendly short course redesigned by Tiger Woods, with ocean views and a casual vibe.

💡 Tip: You can book tee times or stay overnight at The Lodge at Pebble Beach or The Inn at Spanish Bay to enjoy full golf access.

Relax and Restore at The Spa at Pebble Beach

After a long scenic drive, unwind at the world-class Spa at Pebble Beach, one of only 90 spas in the world with a Forbes Five-Star rating. Treat yourself to a massage, body wrap, or signature bath experience surrounded by serene gardens.

Shop & Stroll

Stroll through The Shops at Pebble Beach near The Lodge, where you’ll find golf apparel, luxury boutiques, artisan gifts, and the famous Pebble Beach Market for wine and gourmet snacks. It’s the perfect spot to grab a souvenir or picnic supplies before continuing your 17-Mile Drive adventure.

Hike, Walk & Explore Outdoors

Stretch your legs and explore Pebble Beach beyond the car. Try the boardwalks near Spanish Bay, the trails through Crocker Grove, or coastal viewpoints perfect for short scenic walks. You can also find horseback riding and tennis within the resort.

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