What if your next road trip had crashing waves on one side, championship fairways on the other, and picture-perfect overlooks around every turn? Welcome to 17-Mile Drive, one of California’s most legendary coastal routes—and hands down one of the most dazzling scenic drives in the country.
Winding through the exclusive enclave of Pebble Beach, this storied stretch of highway treats drivers to rugged cliffs, ancient trees, seaside mansions, and even celebrity-favorite golf courses. But it’s not just for luxury lovers—this drive is pure visual poetry for anyone who enjoys the ocean breeze, dramatic landscapes, and the thrill of pulling over for a photo op every few minutes.
What We Love
The Lone Cypress
Perhaps the most photographed tree in the world, this windswept cypress clings to a rocky outcrop like it was placed there for a movie scene. You’ll feel the need to pull over and capture it—because it’s just that iconic.
Seals, Sea Lions, and Shorebirds Galore
At spots like Bird Rock and Seal Rock, the wildlife puts on a show. You’ll hear the barking before you even park. Seals lounge, birds dive, and tide pools shimmer—bring binoculars if you have them.
Pacific Sunset Vibes
Golden hour turns the water into liquid fire. If you time it right, the stretch from Spanish Bay to Point Joe glows with soft light and romantic energy. Couples, get ready for that postcard-perfect selfie.
World-Famous Golf Courses
Even if you’re not teeing off at Pebble Beach Golf Links, it’s worth gawking at the greens that have hosted legends. You might even catch a tournament in action or spot a pro on the practice range.
Ocean Spray and Cypress Tunnels
Some parts of the drive feel like a coastal fantasy—with twisted Monterey cypress arching over the road and salty mist spraying your windshield. Crack a window and let that briny breeze in.
Photo Stops Every Few Minutes
You’ll want to stop constantly—and you can! There are 17 marked “points of interest,” and each is uniquely beautiful. No two views are alike, and each one deserves a few deep breaths.
Atmosphere & Setting
There’s something cinematic about the whole drive—part rugged wilderness, part curated elegance. The road meanders through whisper-quiet forest, then suddenly opens to sweeping ocean vistas. You’ll hear the crash of surf, the flutter of seabird wings, and the occasional soft thwack of a golf swing. Mansions peek from behind hedges, but the real stars are the cliffs, the waves, and the timeless sense of California grandeur.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
There’s a small $11.25 entrance fee per vehicle (unless you’re a guest at one of the Pebble Beach resorts), but you’ll get hours of visual magic for the price. Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring the full loop, though you could stretch it into a half-day with picnic stops or a sunset linger. Best for romantic day-trippers, photo-happy families, scenic-route enthusiasts, and anyone with a good playlist.
Other Considerations
-
Hours: Open to visitors during daylight hours—no overnight parking allowed.
-
Navigation Tip: Start from Pacific Grove Gate for the best coastal-to-forest route flow.
-
Bring Layers: Even in summer, ocean winds can get chilly. Fog is a common morning guest.
-
Food Stops: Pebble Beach Market has gourmet grab-and-go snacks, and Spanish Bay has oceanview dining.
-
Bathrooms: Available at several scenic stops and golf facilities.
-
Accessibility: Many vista points are accessible, but not all. Paved paths are intermittent.
-
No Bikes on the Drive: Cyclists can use an alternate bike route through the forested areas, but not the full 17-Mile Drive loop.
Just when you think you’ve seen it all, another scenic pull-off steals your breath. 17-Mile Drive is more than just a road—it’s an experience, a mood, and a love letter to the California coast. Hop in, roll the windows down, and let the magic unfold one mile at a time.
17-Mile Drive
📍 17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach, CA 93953