There are plenty of beautiful coastal drives in California, but few compare to 17-Mile Drive. Winding through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on the Monterey Peninsula, this scenic route offers dramatic ocean views, native Monterey Cypress trees, wildlife viewing, and some of California's most recognizable landmarks.
Whether you're visiting Monterey for the first time or returning for another weekend getaway, 17-Mile Drive is one of those experiences that deserves a spot on your itinerary. It's easy to spend a few hours pulling over for photos, spotting sea lions along the shoreline, or simply taking in the views that make this stretch of California's coast so memorable.
What Is 17-Mile Drive?
17-Mile Drive is a self-guided scenic drive that winds through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove on California's Monterey Peninsula. Originally established in the late 1800s as an excursion for guests of the historic Hotel Del Monte, it has become one of the area's most popular attractions.
The approximately 17-mile route features 17 designated points of interest, each showcasing a different side of the Monterey Peninsula's natural beauty.
Along the drive, visitors can enjoy:
- Coastal views of the Pacific Ocean
- White sand beaches and rocky cliffs
- Monterey Cypress forests
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Scenic overlooks and walking paths
- Championship golf courses
- Luxury homes overlooking the coast
While it's possible to drive the route in less than an hour, most visitors spend between two and four hours exploring the scenic stops.
The Best Stops Along 17-Mile Drive
Every stop along 17-Mile Drive offers something a little different, making it easy to customize your experience based on your interests.
The Lone Cypress
The Lone Cypress is arguably the most photographed stop along 17-Mile Drive. Perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this Monterey Cypress tree has stood for more than 250 years and has become the symbol of Pebble Beach.
If you're only stopping once during your drive, make it here.
Bird Rock
Bird Rock is one of the best places on the Monterey Peninsula for wildlife viewing. Sea lions can often be seen lounging on the rocks, while harbor seals and seabirds fill the surrounding area. If you're lucky, you may even spot a sea otter floating offshore.
The sounds of crashing waves and barking sea lions make this stop one of the most entertaining along the route.
Spanish Bay
Spanish Bay is known for its beautiful white sand beach and peaceful coastal setting. It's the perfect place to take a short walk, enjoy the ocean breeze, or simply pause and appreciate the scenery.
The Restless Sea
One of the most dramatic sections of the coastline, The Restless Sea gets its name from the turbulent wave patterns created by submerged rock formations beneath the Pacific Ocean's surface.
Point Joe
Point Joe offers sweeping coastal views and a glimpse into Monterey's maritime history. Early sailors often mistook this point for Monterey Bay, contributing to numerous shipwrecks before modern navigation systems existed.
Fanshell Beach Overlook
This scenic overlook provides panoramic views of the coastline and serves as an important harbor seal pupping habitat. Wildlife protections may limit beach access during certain times of the year to help preserve the area's ecosystem.
Cypress Point Lookout
Looking for the perfect sunset spot? Cypress Point Lookout is one of the most picturesque locations along the drive and offers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean.
Crocker Grove
Crocker Grove is home to some of the oldest and largest Monterey Cypress trees in existence. It offers visitors a chance to experience the quieter, forested side of the Monterey Peninsula.
Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point
Known for its windswept Monterey Cypress trees and powerful winter swells, Ghost Trees is one of the more dramatic stops along the route. The surrounding conservation area helps protect native vegetation and marine life.
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Even non-golfers will appreciate the views at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Considered one of the most beautiful public golf courses in the world, its oceanfront setting has made it a destination in its own right.
Explore the Del Monte Forest
One of the things that makes 17-Mile Drive so unique is its location within the Del Monte Forest. Covering more than 5,300 acres, this protected coastal forest is home to one of the largest remaining natural stands of Monterey Cypress trees in the world.
The transition from rugged coastline to towering trees is part of what makes the drive so enjoyable. Around nearly every turn, the scenery changes.
Wildlife Along the Monterey Coast
Wildlife sightings are common throughout the year, especially near Bird Rock and Fanshell Beach. Keep an eye out for:
- Sea lions
- Harbor seals
- Sea otters
- Seabirds
- Tide pool marine life
Bringing a pair of binoculars can make wildlife viewing even more enjoyable.
Things to Do Near 17-Mile Drive
There's plenty to see beyond the scenic drive itself. Consider adding these nearby Monterey Peninsula attractions to your itinerary:
- Explore the shops, restaurants, and galleries in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
- Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium before or after your drive.
- Discover Point Lobos State Natural Reserve for additional coastal hiking opportunities.
- Walk along Cannery Row and enjoy Monterey's historic waterfront.
- Visiting in August? Don't miss Monterey Car Week, one of the world's premier automotive events. (Inbound link #3)
Tips for Visiting 17-Mile Drive
Before heading out, keep these tips in mind:
- Plan for two to four hours to enjoy the experience.
- Bring layers, even during summer, as Monterey's coastal weather can change quickly.
- Visit early in the day for fewer crowds.
- Stop often. Many of the best viewpoints are only a short walk from the parking areas.
- Keep your camera handy for wildlife sightings and ocean views.
Planning Your Visit
Entrance fees and seasonal visitor information may change throughout the year. Before your trip, check the Pebble Beach website for the most up-to-date information on hours, gate access, and visitor details.
17-Mile Drive offers one of the best ways to experience the Monterey Peninsula's coastal beauty. From towering Monterey Cypress trees and dramatic ocean vistas to wildlife viewing and world-renowned golf, it's a destination that's well worth slowing down for.