17 Mile Drive at Pebble Beach: Everything You Need to Know
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This website contains affiliate links, meaning that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through those links. For more information about my affiliate partnerships, please visit my terms and conditions.
Have you ever heard of the 17 Mile Drive at Pebble Beach? Until a few years ago, I hadn’t either — but after experiencing it for myself, I can confidently say it’s one of the most stunning stretches of coastal road in California.
Tucked away between Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea, the 17 Mile Drive winds through a dreamy landscape of rugged cliffs, windswept Monterey cypress trees, pristine beaches, and world-famous golf courses like Pebble Beach Golf Links. It’s one of the most scenic drives on the Monterey Peninsula, and a must-do for any California road trip.
I first discovered the 17 Mile Drive during a road trip with my brother, as we made our way down Highway 1 from San Jose. It was one of our first stops — and even though I’d heard a lot about California’s natural beauty, nothing prepared me for how jaw-dropping it would be to see it up close.
If you’re planning your own drive, this guide will cover everything you need to know about 17 Mile Drive: a map, the best stops to visit, where to enter, how much it costs, insider tips, and answers to all your FAQs.
Whether you’re road tripping the Pacific Coast Highway or simply looking for the best things to do near Monterey and Carmel, 17 Mile Drive deserves a spot at the top of your list.
17 Mile Drive Map
Before you set out, it’s super helpful to have a 17 Mile Drive map handy — especially because cell service can be a little spotty along the coast.
When my brother and I drove it, we actually spent about 15 minutes circling around trying to find the entrance because Google Maps wasn’t exactly being our best friend. (Don’t worry — I’ll make sure that doesn’t happen to you!)
To make things easier, I created a custom 17 Mile Drive map with the full route marked out, including all the entrance gates and my favorite lookout points.
Tip: Download the map offline before you go — especially if you’re planning to stop at hidden gems like Fanshell Beach or the Cypress Point Lookout, where service can get spotty.
17 Mile Drive Entrance Information
Where to Enter 17 Mile Drive
There are five official entrance gates to access the 17 Mile Drive at Pebble Beach.
Each entrance has a staffed booth where you’ll pay the entrance fee, receive a detailed map, and get any updates about closures or wildlife protections.
Here’s where you can enter (click on each gate for directions):
If you’re coming from Monterey, the Pacific Grove Gate is the most convenient starting point and will take you straight to some of the first scenic stops like Spanish Bay and Bird Rock.
If you’re arriving from Carmel-by-the-Sea or Big Sur, the Carmel Gate is a great place to begin, offering easy access to the Lone Cypress and Pebble Beach Golf Links.
No matter where you start, the route is well-marked and easy to follow, so you won’t miss out on the stunning coastal views that make 17 Mile Drive one of the most famous scenic drives in California.
17 Mile Drive Entrance Fee
To drive the 17 Mile Drive, there’s a toll fee of $12.25 per vehicle (as of 2025).
You’ll pay at any of the five entrance gates and receive a brochure with a map highlighting all of the scenic points along the way.
Money-saving tip: If you spend $35 or more at any of the official Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants (excluding Pebble Beach Market), your entrance fee will be reimbursed! This is a great excuse to treat yourself to lunch at places like The Bench or Stillwater Bar & Grill after your drive.
Note: Payment by credit card is accepted at most gates, but it’s always a good idea to carry a little cash just in case.
17 Mile Drive Hours
The 17 Mile Drive is open to the public from sunrise to sunset every day, year-round.
This makes it a perfect stop whether you’re planning an early-morning start or want to catch golden hour along the coast.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Motorcycles are not permitted on the 17 Mile Drive.
- The gates may close early during extreme weather or for special events, so it’s a good idea to check the official Pebble Beach website before you visit if you’re traveling during winter or holidays.
Pro Tip: Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon means fewer crowds — and way better lighting for your photos!
A Little History: Why 17 Mile Drive Exists
Back in the 1880s, the Pacific Improvement Company built what we now know as the 17 Mile Drive — but it wasn’t created just for sightseeing.
Originally, the route was designed as a pleasure ride for wealthy guests staying at the luxurious Hotel Del Monte (today part of the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey).
The goal? To showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Monterey Peninsula and convince visitors to buy sprawling scenic estates along the coast.
Iconic landmarks like the Lone Cypress and the rugged cliffs of Pebble Beach were some of the biggest selling points, even back then. More than a century later, 17 Mile Drive remains one of California’s most famous — and most scenic — coastal routes.
Best Stops on 17 Mile Drive
There are 17 official stops along the 17 Mile Drive, but a few stand out as absolute must-sees.
Here’s a closer look at the iconic viewpoints you won’t want to miss — and why they’re worth pulling over for.
Spanish Bay Vista Point
Start your journey with sweeping ocean views and a peaceful, sandy beach at Spanish Bay Vista Point. This area is named after Spanish explorers who, legend has it, camped here in the 1700s while searching for Monterey Bay.
Today, it’s the perfect spot to stretch your legs, walk along the boardwalk, or enjoy a picnic with the sound of crashing waves in the background.
Pro tip: Spanish Bay is especially stunning at sunset if you time your drive right!
Point Joe Vista Point
Just a short drive from Spanish Bay, you’ll reach Point Joe, where the ocean crashes dramatically against the rocky coastline. Early mariners often mistook this spot for the entrance to Monterey Bay — a mistake that led to numerous shipwrecks along the rugged shore.
It’s an atmospheric place where you can really feel the power of the sea, and it’s one of the best spots on the drive for moody, dramatic photography.
Restless Sea
Located right near Point Joe, the Restless Sea is a constantly churning cove where underwater currents create endlessly moving, frothy waves. It’s mesmerizing to watch and a good reminder of just how dynamic the Pacific Ocean can be.
You’ll often hear the waves roaring and see whitecaps even on relatively calm days — it’s a must-see natural phenomenon that’s easy to miss if you’re not looking for the sign!
China Rock Vista Point
At China Rock, you’ll find a collection of rugged boulders along the coast, historically home to a small Chinese fishing village in the late 1800s. It’s a beautiful place to stop for a moment of quiet and reflect on the area’s layered history.
Look closely and you’ll see why it’s a favorite spot for dramatic coastal photos — the waves splash dramatically against the rocks, and the textures are incredible at golden hour.
Bird Rock Vista Point
One of the most popular stops on the 17 Mile Drive, Bird Rock is a large offshore rock absolutely teeming with wildlife. Depending on the season, you might spot hundreds of harbor seals, sea lions, and seabirds crowding its surface!
Bring binoculars if you have them — or just zoom in with your camera. The sights (and sounds!) of nature at Bird Rock are unforgettable.
Seal Rock Overlook
Just down the road from Bird Rock, you’ll find Seal Rock Overlook, another incredible spot for wildlife viewing.
Here, a sheltered cove and offshore rocks provide a sanctuary for harbor seals, sea lions, and seabirds. It’s quieter than Bird Rock, making it a perfect place to stop, listen to the ocean, and maybe even enjoy a peaceful picnic at the nearby tables.
Pro Tip: If you’re visiting between April and June, keep an eye out — you might spot seal pups lounging on the beach!
Fanshell Beach Outlook
A little further along, Fanshell Beach Outlook offers more stunning coastal views and another important wildlife habitat.
In the spring, Fanshell Beach becomes a crucial pupping site for harbor seals. During pupping season, parts of the beach may be closed to protect the newborn seals, but you can often still admire them from the overlook.
Even outside of seal season, this stretch of snowy white sand and turquoise surf is one of the prettiest along the 17 Mile Drive.
Cypress Point Lookout
Cypress Point Lookout is where the 17 Mile Drive really shows off.
Perched high above the ocean, this viewpoint offers some of the most breathtaking vistas of the Monterey Peninsula’s dramatic coastline. Towering cliffs, crashing waves, and a forest of ancient Monterey cypress trees make this stop feel wild and windswept.
It’s a little less busy than Lone Cypress, so if you want that epic coastal photo without the crowds, this is the spot to linger.
The Lone Cypress
No trip to the 17 Mile Drive would be complete without stopping at the famous Lone Cypress.
Balanced precariously on a granite outcrop above the sea, this solitary Monterey cypress has stood for over 250 years and has become the official symbol of Pebble Beach Company.
It’s one of the most photographed trees in the world — and once you see it, you’ll understand why. Even though the tree is heavily protected (and trademarked!), the view itself is free to enjoy.
Pro Tip: Early morning or late afternoon gives you the best light for photos here!
Crocker Cypress Grove
If you love ancient trees, Crocker Cypress Grove is a must-stop.
This quiet grove is home to some of the oldest and largest Monterey cypress trees in existence — a species so rare that it only grows naturally right here along the Monterey Peninsula.
The twisting, weathered shapes of the cypress trees create a moody, almost mystical atmosphere that feels worlds away from the busier viewpoints. It’s a beautiful spot to slow down, breathe in the salty air, and really soak in the magic of the coastline.
Pescadero Point
A little further along, Pescadero Point offers sweeping panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Carmel Bay, and the dramatic rocky coastline.
It’s less crowded than some of the earlier stops, making it a perfect place for a peaceful walk or to snap some photos of the rugged beauty that defines this part of California.
Fun Fact: On very clear days, you can sometimes spot the distant outline of Point Lobos from here!
Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point
Near Pescadero Point, you’ll find one of the most hauntingly beautiful sights along the drive — the Ghost Trees.
These gnarled, bleached Monterey cypress trees have been sculpted by centuries of relentless wind and salt spray, leaving behind pale, skeletal forms that seem to glow against the rocky cliffs.
The Ghost Trees are a favorite subject for photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset when the low light casts long shadows across the rocks. It’s a little eerie, incredibly beautiful, and totally unforgettable.
Pebble Beach Golf Courses
Even if you’re not a golfer, it’s impossible to drive the 17 Mile Drive without feeling the pull of Pebble Beach’s legendary golf courses.
This stretch of the Monterey Peninsula is home to some of the most beautiful — and most famous — courses in the world, each offering dramatic coastal scenery and a rich history that’s impossible to ignore.
Here’s a quick overview of the courses you’ll pass along the 17 Mile Drive:
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Arguably the most iconic golf course in the United States, Pebble Beach Golf Links is perched dramatically along the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean.
It’s hosted multiple U.S. Opens (with another scheduled for 2027!) and is consistently ranked as the No. 1 public course in America.
Even if you don’t play, it’s worth stopping by the Lodge at Pebble Beach to admire the famous 18th hole and soak up the atmosphere. Watching players finish their rounds against the crashing waves is a uniquely Californian experience.
Spyglass Hill Golf Course
Often called the toughest test at Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill winds through shady forested hills before revealing stunning coastal holes near the ocean.
Golf Digest regularly ranks it among the Top 100 Courses in America, and if you’re a serious golfer visiting the 17 Mile Drive, it’s a true bucket list course.
Fun fact: Spyglass Hill gets its name from Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson, who spent time in the area.
The Links at Spanish Bay
Inspired by the classic seaside courses of Scotland (like the Old Course at St. Andrews, where I went to college!) The Links at Spanish Bay brings a totally different vibe to Pebble Beach.
The wide-open fairways roll through dunes and along the coastline, with salty breezes and ocean views at nearly every hole.
Whether you’re staying overnight at The Inn at Spanish Bay or just passing through, it’s worth stopping to admire the course — and catch the daily bagpiper performance at sunset.
Other Courses at Pebble Beach
- The Hay: A fun, family-friendly par-3 course designed by Tiger Woods — great if you’re short on time but want to swing a club.
- Poppy Hills Golf Course: A beautiful inland course that blends towering pines with challenging greens.
- Del Monte Golf Course: The oldest golf course in continuous operation west of the Mississippi!
Pro Tip: Even if you’re not planning to golf, several of the clubhouses along the 17 Mile Drive have public restaurants and patios where you can grab a drink and watch the action on the greens — no tee time required.
Where to Eat at Pebble Beach
Driving the 17 Mile Drive is bound to work up an appetite — and luckily, Pebble Beach is packed with fantastic places to grab a bite, from casual market stops to elegant oceanview restaurants.
Here’s where to eat along the way:
Pebble Beach Market
A quick and casual option, the Pebble Beach Market is perfect if you want to grab a sandwich, coffee, or snack to go.
While it’s a great stop for a picnic, keep in mind that purchases here don’t count toward reimbursing your 17 Mile Drive entrance fee.
The Tap Room at Fairway One
Classic, cozy, and full of golf history, The Tap Room is a steakhouse and sports bar rolled into one.
Located at Fairway One, it’s a great spot to dig into a hearty burger or a prime rib sandwich after exploring the coastline.
Stillwater Bar & Grill
Located inside The Lodge at Pebble Beach, Stillwater Bar & Grill offers sweeping views of the 18th green and the ocean beyond.
It’s one of the best places on the Peninsula for fresh seafood, so if you’re craving oysters or local fish, this is your spot.
The Bench
With a relaxed yet refined vibe, The Bench is another fantastic dining option at The Lodge.
They specialize in dishes cooked over an open fire, with an emphasis on bold flavors — and the outdoor patio here has stunning views over the 18th hole and the Pacific.
Pèppoli at Pebble Beach
In the mood for Italian? Head to Pèppoli at The Inn at Spanish Bay for hearty Tuscan classics like pasta, seafood, and incredible wine pairings.
It’s a cozier, more romantic spot if you’re looking for a sit-down dinner after your drive.
Stave Wine Cellar
Wine lovers, don’t miss Stave Wine Cellar at The Inn at Spanish Bay.
It’s a relaxed space offering an extensive selection of wines by the glass or bottle, along with small plates like cheese boards — perfect for an elegant but low-key stop.
Hay’s Place
Located next to The Hay short course, Hay’s Place is a casual, family-friendly option with great tacos, cocktails, and outdoor seating.
It’s a fun spot to kick back if you’re traveling with a group or want a chill lunch after sightseeing.
Gallery Café
A popular breakfast and brunch spot located at The Lodge, Gallery Café serves everything from pancakes to hearty omelets.
If you’re hitting the 17 Mile Drive early, this is a great place to fuel up before you start your adventure.
Terrace Lounge
If you just want to grab a drink and soak in the views, the Terrace Lounge at The Lodge is a dreamy place to do it.
Sip a cocktail while watching the sunset over the Pacific — it’s the perfect relaxed ending to a day on the coast.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to dine at any Pebble Beach Resorts restaurant (except Pebble Beach Market!), keep your receipt — spending $35 or more at these spots will reimburse your 17 Mile Drive entrance fee.
Things to Do on 17 Mile Drive
Sure, the 17 Mile Drive is known for its jaw-dropping coastal views — but there’s plenty more to do along the way if you want to slow down and really soak it all in.
Here are some of the best ways to make the most of your drive:
Take a Scenic Walk
At stops like Spanish Bay and Seal Rock, you’ll find beautiful walking paths and boardwalks that let you get closer to the ocean.
Even a short stroll can give you a whole new perspective on the rugged coastline and the famous Monterey cypress trees.
Have a Picnic
Pack a lunch (or grab something at the Pebble Beach Market) and enjoy a seaside picnic at Spanish Bay or one of the picnic tables near Seal Rock.
There’s nothing like eating with the sound of waves crashing just a few feet away!
Capture Stunning Photos
Between the Ghost Trees, the Lone Cypress, and the dramatic cliffs of Cypress Point Lookout, 17 Mile Drive is a photographer’s paradise.
Golden hour — just after sunrise or before sunset — offers the best lighting for those perfect coastal shots.
Spot Wildlife
Keep your eyes peeled for harbor seals, sea lions, sea otters, and countless species of seabirds as you drive.
Bird Rock and Fanshell Beach are some of the best places to spot wildlife along the way.
Play (or Watch) a Round of Golf
If you’re a golfer, there’s no better place to tee off than Pebble Beach Golf Links or The Links at Spanish Bay.
Not a golfer? You can still enjoy a drink or lunch at one of the clubhouses and watch the players tackle some of the most iconic holes in the world.
Relax at Pebble Beach Resorts
Whether it’s grabbing a cocktail at The Bench, enjoying a seafood feast at Stillwater Bar & Grill, or simply wandering the grounds of The Lodge, spending time at Pebble Beach Resorts is a perfect way to unwind after your drive.
17 Mile Drive Itinerary Suggestions
How much time you spend on the 17 Mile Drive is totally up to you — you can see the highlights in just a couple of hours, or turn it into a full-day coastal adventure.
Here are a few sample itineraries to help you plan:
Quick Drive (1–2 Hours)
If you’re short on time but still want to catch the essentials, this is the perfect option.
Focus on the major highlights:
- Start at the Pacific Grove Gate.
- Stop at Spanish Bay Vista Point for a quick beach walk.
- Continue to Bird Rock to spot sea lions and seabirds.
- Pause at Cypress Point Lookout for breathtaking cliff views.
- End at the iconic Lone Cypress for the must-have photo.
Pro Tip: This is easiest early in the morning when traffic is lighter.
Half-Day Adventure (3–4 Hours)
If you have a little more time to explore, you can slow down and enjoy more stops along the way.
- Start at Pacific Grove Gate or Highway 1 Gate.
- Walk along the boardwalk at Spanish Bay.
- Stop at Point Joe and watch the Restless Sea.
- Visit Bird Rock and Seal Rock Overlook.
- Grab lunch at The Bench or The Tap Room.
- Admire the views at Cypress Point Lookout.
- Photograph the Lone Cypress.
- Finish at Pescadero Point and visit the Ghost Trees.
This pace lets you enjoy short walks, wildlife spotting, and a relaxing meal without feeling rushed.
Full-Day Coastal Escape
If you really want to soak in everything Pebble Beach has to offer — and maybe even stay overnight — here’s how to do it:
- Start with breakfast at Gallery Café inside The Lodge.
- Take a slow, scenic drive, stopping at nearly every viewpoint.
- Walk at Spanish Bay, visit Crocker Cypress Grove, and spend time photographing the coastline.
- Have a long lunch at Stillwater Bar & Grill or Pèppoli.
- Book a late afternoon tee time at The Hay (par-3 course) or just relax with a cocktail at Terrace Lounge.
- Stay overnight at The Lodge at Pebble Beach or The Inn at Spanish Bay.
- Enjoy sunset views — and maybe even a bagpiper performance if you’re near Spanish Bay!
Extend Your Trip: Stay Overnight at Pebble Beach Resorts
While most people drive the 17 Mile Drive as a day trip, if you have the time (and the budget), spending a night at one of the Pebble Beach Resorts can turn your scenic drive into an unforgettable coastal getaway.
From world-famous golf courses to dreamy oceanfront dining, staying here lets you soak in all the magic of the Monterey Peninsula without rushing. Plus, overnight guests enjoy free access to the 17 Mile Drive — no entrance fee required!
Here are a few of the top places to stay:
The Lodge at Pebble Beach
If you’re dreaming of an iconic, luxurious stay, it doesn’t get more classic than The Lodge at Pebble Beach.
Overlooking the legendary 18th hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links, this historic hotel offers oceanfront rooms, fine dining, and a timeless atmosphere that’s pure California coastal elegance.
Even if you don’t golf, you’ll love relaxing on the terrace, exploring the nearby beaches, and treating yourself to a sunset dinner at The Bench or Stillwater Bar & Grill.
The Inn at Spanish Bay
For a slightly more laid-back but still luxurious vibe, check out The Inn at Spanish Bay.
Nestled among the dunes at Spanish Bay, this resort has incredible ocean views, a beautiful Scottish-inspired golf course (The Links at Spanish Bay), and cozy fire pits perfect for sunset cocktails.
Bonus: Every evening at sunset, a bagpiper plays along the dunes — a magical tradition you won’t want to miss.
Casa Palmero
If you’re dreaming of a secluded, romantic escape, Casa Palmero is the hidden gem of Pebble Beach Resorts.
This Mediterranean-style boutique hotel offers just 24 rooms and suites, each with wood-burning fireplaces, oversized soaking tubs, and a private, serene atmosphere that feels worlds away from the main lodge and golf crowds.
Guests also enjoy exclusive access to a private pool and the award-winning Spa at Pebble Beach — perfect if you’re planning a more luxurious and relaxing stay along the Monterey Peninsula.
Pro Tip: Staying at any Pebble Beach resort also gives you access to spa services, tennis courts, private beach access, and exclusive dining options — making it the perfect way to turn your 17 Mile Drive adventure into a full-on coastal escape.
Where to Stay Nearby
If staying right inside Pebble Beach isn’t in the cards, don’t worry — there are plenty of great hotels nearby that offer easy access to the 17 Mile Drive, Carmel, and Monterey:
Luxury
- Hotel Carmel (Book Here) – Charming boutique luxury in the heart of Carmel-by-the-Sea, with cozy rooms, fire pits, and complimentary breakfast — perfect for a romantic getaway.
- InterContinental The Clement Monterey (Book Here) – Upscale waterfront hotel right on Cannery Row in Monterey, steps from the Monterey Bay Aquarium and coastal walking paths.
Midrange
- Wave Street Inn (Book Here) – A bright, modern midrange hotel just off Cannery Row — great for easy access to the 17 Mile Drive, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and oceanfront walks.
- Coachman’s Inn Carmel (Book Here) – A charming, comfortable inn located right in downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea, just a short walk from shops, restaurants, and the beach — with free breakfast and cozy fireplaces.
Budget
- Colton Inn Monterey (Book Here) – Budget-friendly and family-owned, located in downtown Monterey with easy access to both the 17 Mile Drive and Cannery Row attractions.
- Comfort Inn Carmel (Book Here) – A comfortable, affordable stay in a fantastic location — close to Carmel shops, restaurants, and the Carmel Gate entrance to 17 Mile Drive.
Pro Tip: Staying in Carmel or Monterey puts you just a short, scenic drive away from the 17 Mile Drive, without the Pebble Beach price tag.
Need Help Planning Your California Coast Trip?
Planning a road trip down the California coast can feel a little overwhelming — there’s just so much to see and do!
If you’d love some personalized help crafting the perfect itinerary (and scoring exclusive perks at resorts like Pebble Beach), I’d love to help.
As a certified travel advisor, I offer custom travel planning services to help you book the dreamiest stays, tours, and experiences — without the stress.
Let’s make your California coastal adventure unforgettable.
FAQs About 17 Mile Drive
Got questions about planning your 17 Mile Drive adventure? Here are the answers to everything you need to know!
Is 17 Mile Drive worth it?
Absolutely!
Even if you’re short on time, the 17 Mile Drive offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in California.
The dramatic cliffs, ancient Monterey cypress trees, and famous stops like the Lone Cypress make it well worth the small entrance fee.
How long does it take to drive 17 Mile Drive?
Without stops, you could technically drive the entire 17-mile route in about 30–45 minutes.
But trust me — you’ll want to plan at least 2–3 hours (or more!) to stop at the scenic viewpoints, watch wildlife, and enjoy a leisurely meal.
Where does 17 Mile Drive start and end?
The 17 Mile Drive is a loop that runs between Pacific Grove and Carmel-by-the-Sea on the Monterey Peninsula.
You can enter at any of the five gates: (Pacific Grove Gate, Country Club Gate, Samuel F.B. Morse Gate, Highway 1 Gate, or Carmel Gate) and start your journey from there!
How much does it cost to drive 17 Mile Drive?
The entrance fee for the 17 Mile Drive is $12.25 per vehicle (as of 2025).
If you spend $35 or more at a Pebble Beach Resorts restaurant (excluding Pebble Beach Market), your entrance fee will be reimbursed. Admission into 17-Mile Drive is complimentary for overnight guests of The Lodge, The Inn, and Casa Palmero.
Is 17 Mile Drive dog friendly?
Yes — with a few restrictions!
Leashed dogs are welcome along much of the 17 Mile Drive, especially at outdoor areas like Spanish Bay and Seal Rock.
However, pets are not allowed inside Pebble Beach Resorts buildings or on golf courses, so plan accordingly.
Can you bike or walk 17 Mile Drive?
Yes!
Bicycles and pedestrians are allowed on the 17 Mile Drive, and it can be a beautiful way to experience the coastline up close.
Keep in mind that the full route is 17 miles, and the road is shared with cars — so it’s best for confident cyclists or walkers who plan shorter sections.
Do you need cash for 17 Mile Drive?
No — most entrance gates accept credit cards.
That said, it’s always smart to carry a little cash just in case you hit a gate where card readers are down.
Is 17 Mile Drive part of Big Sur?
Not technically — but it’s very close!
The 17 Mile Drive is part of the Monterey Peninsula, while Big Sur stretches south from Carmel along California’s Highway 1.
Many travelers combine both into a single coastal road trip.
Final Thoughts: Is 17 Mile Drive Worth It?
When my brother and I first rolled up to the entrance gate of the 17 Mile Drive, I’ll be honest — we hesitated.
Was it really going to be worth the entrance fee? Would the views actually live up to the hype?
Within minutes of passing through the Pacific Grove Gate, all of those doubts disappeared.
The rugged cliffs, the endless blue Pacific, the twisting Monterey cypress trees clinging to the rocks — it felt like stepping into a postcard. And with every stop, from Bird Rock to the famous Lone Cypress, the drive somehow kept getting better.
What I loved most about the 17 Mile Drive was how it invites you to slow down. To pull over. To breathe in the salty air, watch the waves crash against the rocks, and just be.
If you’re traveling along the California coast — whether it’s a full-on Highway 1 road trip or a quick weekend escape to Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea — the 17 Mile Drive is absolutely worth adding to your itinerary.
Take your time. Bring a picnic. Snap a hundred photos. And let the magic of this stretch of coastline stay with you long after the drive is over.
Related Posts You’ll Love
Planning a longer California coastal adventure? Here are a few more guides to help you make the most of your trip:
- Driving Big Sur: Everything You Need to Know – Explore jaw-dropping cliffs, hidden beaches, and the wild beauty of California’s most iconic road trip route.
- Visiting Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – Just south of Carmel, Point Lobos offers some of the best coastal hikes and wildlife spotting on the Pacific Coast.
- Visiting Hearst Castle: What You Need to Know – Take a detour into history with a tour of this opulent hilltop estate overlooking the ocean in San Simeon.
Pin it for later
3 Comments