17 Mile Drive is without doubt one of the most scenic drives on the planet with stunning seashores, well-known cypress bushes, rocky outcrops, and luxurious mansions. Located on the Highway 1 Coastal Route between Carmel by the Sea and Monterey, this drive takes you alongside the Monterey Peninsula by means of the Del Monte Forest and thru one of the vital unique communities within the nation, Pebble Beach, California.
Many individuals pay $11.25 to enter the well-known route in Pebble Beach by automotive, however if you happen to trip a bicycle or stroll alongside the 17-mile stretch, it’s free!
Motorcycles will not be allowed on 17 Mile Drive and we didn’t need to be caught in a automotive, so we determined to cycle 17 Mile Drive. But as a substitute of exerting an excessive amount of vitality, we did it in type on an e-bike. The fantastic thing about e-biking is you possibly can discover the attractive highway on two wheels with the consolation and velocity of a bike freed from cost!
17 Mile Drive from Monterey – Pacific Grove to Carmel
Most individuals drive 17 mile Drive by renting a automotive or taking a highway journey. You can test automotive rental comparisons at RentalCars.com.
17 Mile Drive Cost
The entry charge is 11.25 for automobiles.
Walking and biking are free.
Motorcycles will not be allowed on 17 mile drive.
If you eat at one of many 17-mile drive eating places, you’re going to get your gate charge reimbursed.
To Drive or Cycle 17 Mile Drive
17 Mile Drive is positioned in the neighborhood of Pacific Grove, It is only a 5-minute drive from Monterey, so it is rather simple to get to in case you are staying on the town. We met our information at Big Sur Adventures on Cannery Row the place we equipped with helmets, water, and state-of-the-artwork e-bikes.
No matter which means you select to see 17 Mile Drive, you’ll love the surroundings. However, site visitors may be heavy and there’s a lineup to get into this scenic drive at Pacific Grove Gate.
We discovered that by biking, we had loads of freedom and zipped previous stopped automobiles in site visitors. Plus, with e-bikes, we didn’t work very exhausting as a result of they’re electrical bikes. We had the enjoyable of utilizing pedal energy however had the additional enhance of velocity to go uphill and trip quicker with ease. We lined loads of floor in our afternoon tour.
These E-bikes are quick. We averaged 20 miles (32km) an hour with out having to do any exhausting work. If you need to zip round from place to put, the gears and throttle make it simple to hit prime speeds, even going uphill. We barely broke a sweat.
Things to See on 17 Mile Drive
There are so many issues to see and do on 17 Mile Drive, however Ocean View Boulevard and Sunset Drive have rather a lot to see as nicely, so we propose making a complete day journey to discover this scenic coastal drive.
Here’s a breakdown of the factors of curiosity on 17 Mile Drive and Ocean View Boulevard to Carmel.
1. Lovers Point – Ocean Blvd
Lovers Point is a picturesque seashore with photogenic rocky outcrops. It’s a preferred spot for locals to hang around and have picnics, play seashore volleyball, or catch a wave.
Before getting into 17 Mile Drive, we stopped at a few scenic viewpoints alongside Ocean Boulevard. We began simply exterior Monterey close to the Monterey Bay Aquarium and to the Gate to Pebble Beach. Lover’s Point was an exquisite cease to marvel at the fantastic thing about the coast. There gave the impression to be one pull-off after one other for automobiles to park and for individuals to get out and benefit from the views.
2. Pacific Grove Marine Gardens Conservation Area
At the Pacific Grove Marine Gardens Conservation Area, a bunch of sea otters caught our eye. At least a dozen of them have been enjoying within the surf.
We discovered that by the Twenties sea otters have been believed to be extinct attributable to overhunting. But 50 or so survived alongside the coast. Some individuals say they lived within the well-known Bixby Bridge space.
Today, sea otters are thriving within the space because of the efforts of the Monterey Bay Aquariums Sea Otter program. We watched a minimum of a dozen of them swim in play within the surf and it was heartening to listen to that they’ve returned.
But they nonetheless face a severe risk from oil spills and meals availability. After a number of minutes of watching the lovable little guys, we hopped on our e-bikes, put our gears on excessive, and zipped to the subsequent cease.
Make positive to take a look at these different stunning spots for pictures alongside Big Sur. These are highlights you don’t need to miss!
3. John Denver Memorial
It’s fascinating to listen to of the film stars and celebrities that frequented this space.
Clint Eastwood was the mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea within the Nineteen Eighties and practically everybody we talked to had some form of celeb story to inform of their institution or neighborhood.
We e discovered that singer John Denver lived in the neighborhood for a yr earlier than his demise. His aircraft crashed within the waters simply off the coast. In 2007 a memorial was devoted to the shores to have fun his life.
4. Point Pinos Lighthouse
As we meandered previous million-greenback homes our information Joaquin identified the Point Pinos Lighthouse, the oldest nonetheless-working lighthouse on the West Coast. It remains to be in use at present to assist navigate ships and so they provide day by day excursions. You can also like: Where to Camp in Big Sur
5. Pacific Grove Gate
We entered the Gates of Pebble Beach at Pacific Grove Gate with out incident. We whizzed previous automobiles lined as much as pay their entrance charge. Being on a bicycle, we had the liberty to discover the paid portion of 17 Mile Drive on our personal.
Having our bikes, we have been driving quicker than most automobiles caught in site visitors which allowed us to see all the highest websites with ease. You can decide up a map of 17 Mile Drive on the Visitor’s Center, to observe the 21 factors of curiosity.
Sure you possibly can spend the day checking every little thing out, however in case you are brief on time, there are a couple of should see stops. These have been our favorites.
6. Links at Spanish Bay
The Links Golf course at Spanish Bay is presumably one of the vital stunning settings for golf within the US. It was designed to guard and restore the native dunes alongside the coast to permit the plant to regrow at Spanish Bay.
Because of the nursery constructed on-web site, greater than 100,000 native species are replanted annually creating an exquisite wild coast alongside Spanish Bay.
The Links at Spanish Bay was the primary Scottish Style golf course in America opened in 1987 and was designed by 5-time British Open champion Tom Watson. He famous that “Spanish Bay looked so much like Scotland, you could almost hear the bagpipe piping.” Ever since The Links at Spanish Bay has had pipers play at sundown whereas the final golfers end up on the course.
7. Spanish Bay
Spanish Bay Beach is yet one more scenic cease alongside a protracted stretch of seashore. In the late 1700s, the Spanish camped right here whereas looking for Monterey Bay. Confusion and illness set in and 6 months later they returned having by no means discovered Monterey Bay. Little did they know, how shut they have been.
It wasn’t till a yr later with one other discovery get together that they really found Monterey Bay which was hidden in plain sight. Spanish Bay was named for the Spanish explorer Gaspar de Portolà who camped right here in 1769 by no means discovering what he was on the lookout for.
You may keep right here on the Inn at Spanish Bay. It overlooks The Links at Spanish Bay and is near the Bird Rock Vista overlook.
8. China Rock
China Rock is one other stunning viewpoint alongside the 17 Mile Drive. This was a Chinese neighborhood within the 1800s the place they constructed small lean-to properties towards the rocks.
9. Bird Rock
Our subsequent cease was one other stunning lookout at Bird Rock. Joaquin advised us that it was a number of inches greater however they cleared away all of the chicken poop.
Once they cleared the layer of dung away, the ocean lions took over for a bit however now that the layer of white chicken droppings has taken over once more, it’s gone again to the birds providing nice sightings for chicken watchers.
10. Seal Rock
Seal Rock is an efficient picnic space and is a good spot to get out, stretch your legs and go for a stroll. It was named for the harbor seals and sea lions that frequent the realm.
11. Crocker Grove
17 Mile Drive could also be well-known for its dying Monterey cypress bushes alongside the shore, however simply earlier than you attain the Lone Cypress Point Lookout, make a cease in Crocker Grove. The Cypress Trees of Crocker Grove are wholesome and powerful. You’ll additionally discover a number of the oldest and largest cypress bushes on the planet right here.
The founding father of Pebble Beach Samuel F.B. Morse, made positive to protect the realm, and its Monterey cypress Trees. The drive goes by means of 5300 acres together with the Del Monte Forest.
12. The Lone Cypress
We have been most trying ahead to Cypress Point Lookout to see the Lone Cypress because it’s the photograph that we’ve seen all around the Internet of 17 Mile Drive. It’s a well-known Monterey Cypress tree sitting alone on a rocky outcrop But it ended up being a bit disappointing to us. It appears that almost all photographers have carried out their intelligent framing and positioning to make it appear extra thrilling than it’s.
Even although we have been disenchanted, the Lone Cypress remains to be a should-cease alongside the 17 Mile Drive. It is the image of Pebble Beach, California, and the 250-yr-previous tree now has metal cables holding it up. If you handle to do the 17 Mile Drive within the close to future, you will need to cease right here for a glance since you by no means know the way for much longer the Lone Cypress will final.
13. Ghost Tree
Just somewhat farther alongside the highway was the Ghost Tree and that was a extra spectacular view for us. The sundown occurs straight behind the Ghost Tree (in March anyway) and it makes for an exquisite scene.
It’s a stark distinction to the Lone Cypress that’s nonetheless dwelling. This lifeless cypress tree with bare branches offers an ominous view of the ocean. Legend has it the Lady in Lace may be seen on the Ghost Tree on foggy nights.
14. Mansions
There are 21 factors of curiosity alongside the 17 Mile Drive route map, however none of them point out the $20-$40 million greenback mansions that line the shore. Dave and I couldn’t consider the variety of multimillion-greenback properties and puzzled, “who lives here?” How accomplish that many individuals have such enormous wealth?
The 17 mile drive homes are really constructed for the wealthy and well-known and it’s enjoyable to think about who’s hiding behind the excessive-manicured hedges. We may have stopped for a peek at every property however that will have taken the complete day!
15. Pescadero Point
Before biking alongside 17 Mile Drive, we spent a day browsing with the Carmel Surf Company off its pretty lengthy sandy seashore. While there, our teacher identified Pebble Beach and we didn’t notice simply how shut 17 Mile Drive was to the place we began.
Stopping at Pescadero Point gave us pretty views of Carmel Bay and Stillwater cove. It was our final scenic view earlier than slicing again into the Pebble Beach neighborhood.
16. Pebble Beach Visitor Center
The Pebble Beach Visitor Center traces the historical past of 17 Mile Drive from its beginnings as a carriage route in 1881. There are 20 reveals with interactive maps, an outside patio, and meals and drinks. Hours: 8 am to 7 pm.
17. Pebble Beach Golf Links
There are a number of world-class golf programs at Pebble Beach and The Pebble Beach Golf Links at Spanish Bay was voted one of many Best Public Golf Courses within the nation by Golf Digest. The 2019 US Open was held on the Pebble Beach Golf Links.
Other Golf Courses are:
Pebble Beach Golf Links
Spyglass Hill Golf Course
Del Monte Golf Course
Pebble Beach Golf Academy
Peter Hay Par-3 Golf Course – If you don’t need to golf a full 18 holes whereas visiting Pebble Beach, hit up the one Par 3 course within the space and remember to see the a centesimal U.S. Open Monument that was put up through the 2000 U.S. to honor the win in 2000 (by Tiger Woods) and the opposite 99 winners of the twentieth century.
18. The Lodge at Pebble Beach
Lodge at Pebble Beach – The Lodge at Pebble Beach dates again to 1919 and is a good place to cease in your journey across the drive. If you’ve the funds, it’s additionally an amazing place to remain in Pebble Beach. It’s inside strolling distance of another 17 mile drive points of interest together with Point Joe and Fanshell Overlook.
This renovated to five-star luxurious, the lodge is known for overlooking the 18th gap of the impeccable golf course positioned on the ocean.
19. Mission Ranch
We even made the detour to go to Clint Eastwood’s well-known ranch. The Mission Ranch dates again to the 1800s and was rescued by Eastwood whereas he was mayor of Carmel. It was set to be a rental growth.
Today it’s a lodge and restaurant set on 22 acres with sheep grazing within the meadow.
It’s price a visit simply to say you’ve been there as a result of it appears that evidently everybody you meet within the space asks if you happen to went to Clint Eastwood’s ranch.
Pebble Beach Equestrian Center
We didn’t trip horses throughout our journey by means of 17 Mile Drive, however we noticed loads of horses throughout our keep within the space. The Pebble Beach Equestrian Center presents guided excursions by means of its 27 miles of trails throughout the Del Monte Forest. From the Equestrian Center you undergo the Del Monte Forest to a Coastal Trail the place you’ll get pleasure from a coastal picnic. We want so as to add that to our listing the subsequent time we go to!
20. Pebble Beach Food and Wine Event
If you occur to be within the space in April, the annual Pebble Beach Food & Wine Event has been a convention since 2008. More than 100 celeb cooks accomplice with 250 wineries establishing tasting rooms for wine tastings and meals pairings.
21. Huckleberry Hill
We didn’t make it to Huckleberry Hill, however when you have extra time, you can also make your means as much as this viewpoint that’s 800 ft above sea degree to miss the Del Monte Forest. It is positioned on the Highway-1 Gate previous Shephard’s Knoll. Apparently this was John Steinbeck’s favourite cease on 17 Mile Drive.
22. Carmel by the Sea
After a trip by means of the Lodge at Pebble Beach and the Pebble Beach Golf Links, we wove our means by means of the quiet again streets towards our lodging.
Our journey ended within the pretty city of Carmel. We counsel spending the evening in Carmel as there are many issues to see and do. From purchasing in its boutiques to advantageous eating, it is a pretty romantic escape. We have a complete breakdown of issues to do in Carmel at The Best Things to do in Carmel by the Sea
Where to Stay On 17 Mile Drive
We spent two days in Carmel earlier than starting our highway journey down the Pacific Coast Highway 1. There are loads of locations to remain in Carmel and you can even keep in Monterey which may be very near Pebble Beach.
The Hideaway
We beloved our keep on the Hideaway Hotel in Carmel however there are different locations to remain as nicely which now we have talked about on your reference.
The Hideaway is positioned simply half a mile from the seashore however can also be centrally positioned downtown.
Inn at Spanish Bay – The Inn at Spanish Bay is positioned on the Links Golf Course. All rooms have a comfy hearth and there are a lot of eating choices obtainable at this 5-star resort overlooking Spanish Bay
Casa Palermo – Located on the Pebble Beach Golf and Links, this Mediterranean Style Accommodation has 24 elegant rooms with an award-profitable spa, golf, and 5-star facilities.
Where To Eat Along 17 Mile Drive
La Balena Cucina Toscana
With its central location in Carmel, we have been only a brief stroll from our dinner reservations at La Balena Cucina Toscana Carmel. Juniper Street appears to be the taking place avenue for eating places and cafes in Carmel and each The Hideaway and Labalena are located on it.
La Balena was our favorite meal of our complete journey. The environment was excellent as we dined on their out of doors patio with warmth lamps maintaining us toasty heat. Run by Chef Emanuel Bartolini and his spouse, the restaurant captures Tuscan delicacies fantastically.
As you already know we’ve spent loads of time in Tuscany and felt fully at dwelling consuming contemporary burrata with olive oil, gnocchi with truffles, and savory spaghetti Neri with clams, muscle groups, prawns in a tomato chili brodo.
Pebble Beach Food
We didn’t eat in Pebble Beach, however there are many choices to eat at 17-mile drive eating places and you’re going to get your gate charge reimbursed if you happen to eat at one of many pebble seashore firm eating places. Most individuals picnic at one of many many seashores and picnic areas.
The hottest picnic spots are seal rock and level joe. Pack a lunch and make a day of it. Or higher but, go to the pebble seashore marketplace for some picnic meals.
17 Mile Drive – Frequently Asked Questions
How a lot does it price to drive 17 Mile Drive?
If strolling or biking 17 Mile drive is free. The entry charge for automobiles is $11.25 on the gate, however if you happen to spend $35 or extra at pebble seashore resorts eating places excluding pebble seashore market, you may get your gate charge again. Motorcycles will not be allowed on 17 Mile Drive.
Where do you begin 17 Mile Drive?
17 Mile Drive begins at Pacific Grove Gate at Pebble Beach, California.
If you’re driving south from San Francisco alongside Highway 1 take the exit to CA 68 West in direction of Pebble Beach, you’ll then see indicators for the Pacific Grove Pebble Beach Gate entrance.
We began from Big Sur Adventures in Monterey and cycled round Ocean View Boulevard to sundown drive earlier than making our option to the Pebble Beach Gate the place 17 mile drive formally begins.
You may entry 17 Mile Drive from the Country Club Gate, Carmel gate, S.F.B. Morse Gate, or Highway 1 Gate.
How lengthy is 17 Mile drive to see?
You can zip by means of the 17 miles shortly, however we propose three to 4 hours to see all of the sights. Have lunch in Pebble seashore and make a day of it. There are seashores, scenic views and loads of locations to catch sundown.
Is there lodging on 17 mile drive.
There are three luxurious Pebble Beach resorts within the 17 mile drive. The Inn at Spanish Bay, Casa Palmero, and the Lodge at Pebble Beach.
17 Mile Drive Hours of Operation
17 Mile drive is open from dawn to sundown to guests, however in case you are staying in one of many Pebble Beach resorts, you’ve entry to it 24/7. The gates to Pebble Beach are patrolled 24 hours a day.
For extra info on 17 Mile Drive, Carmel, and Monterey, go to the See Monterey Website.
Ebiking excursions of 17 Mile Drive begin at $59 per particular person.
For lodging take a look at The Hideaway for reservations and costs.
Read More About California
Our journey to California was in partnership with Visit California. For extra info on California journey and itineraries, go to their web site. As traditional, all opinions are our personal.