Road Trip: Monterey Peninsula’s 17-Mile Drive

Sandwiched between Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea on the iconic California coast, the 17-Mile Drive is a classic American road trip. Cruise the dramatic coastline through lush forests, rocky inlets and the pristine golf greens of Pebble Beach. Though the route has changed some since it opened in 1881, it remains exactly 17 miles long. Expect to see immaculate marine sanctuaries cozied up against multi-million dollar homes and luxurious resort lodgings on this dreamy stretch of asphalt.  

Plan Your Trip

The 17-Mile Drive can be reached via five entry points, but we recommend starting at either the Pacific Grove entrance on the north end, or the Carmel gate on the south side. If you’re entering at Pacific Grove, drive to or from Monterey along Sunset Drive and Ocean View Boulevard. This scenic stretch continues along the coastline where the 17-Mile Drive ends, with similarly spectacular views.

Wherever you enter, ask for a map that details the points of interest along the easy-to-follow route — just follow the red dashed line on the road. Entry is $11.75 per vehicle, but save your receipt. Spend at least $35 at the Pebble Beach Market, or any of the resort’s restaurants, and your gate fee will be reimbursed. 

Gates are open from sunrise to sunset. Plan to spend at least two or three hours to allow plenty of time to stop for photo ops and a bite to eat. Sorry, motorcycles aren’t allowed on the 17-Mile Drive.

Don’t Miss

The Lone Cypress

Recognize that proud clifftop landmark from the Pebble Beach logo? One of the most photographed trees in the world, the lone cypress has called its scenic rocky perch home for more than 250 years.

The Lodge at Pebble Beach

Golfers will likely recognize the Lodge from watching the U.S. Open. The iconic tournament has been held here six times, with a seventh planned for 2027. Stop by the patio at the Terrace Lounge to sip an Arnold Palmer overlooking Pebble Beach’s famed 18th hole.

Seal Rock / Bird Rock

Plan a stop at one of these picnic areas to grab a bite and snap some Insta-worty shots of harbor seals catching rays on rocky outposts and shorebirds swooping above the sparkling cerulean sea.

The Bagpiper at Spanish Bay

Is the coastline socked in by a marine layer? All the better to enjoy a hot toddy at the Inn at Spanish Bay. Time your drive to arrive by 5:45 p.m. (half an hour before sunset in the winter), when a bagpiper makes the daily trek to a sprawling patio overlooking Spanish Bay. Snag a spot by the fire pit to sip a cocktail or light up a stogie as you soak up the atmospheric sights and sounds.

Stay and Play

Chances are you’ll be so charmed by your surroundings that you’ll be tempted to stay the night. Pebble Beach Resort is home to three ritzy lodgings: The Lodge at Pebble Beach, The Inn at Spanish Bay, and Casa Palmero. However, you’ll also find bed and breakfasts, Airbnbs and lodging at all price points in nearby Monterey and Carmel.

Did you bring your clubs? The 17-Mile Drive meanders by no fewer than eight renown golf courses, including Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, The Links at Spanish Bay and Poppy Hills — all of which have been named on Golf Digest’s list of 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses (ahem, Pebble Beach is #1).

Beyond golf, there’s plenty of fun to be had along the 17-Mile Drive. From strolling the coastal boardwalk at Spanish Bay to cycling the entirety of the drive, there are a lot of ways to soak up this spectacular scenery. Perhaps on horseback, during an unforgettable ride with the Pebble Beach Equestrian Center. You can also explore nearby Monterey’s Cannery Row (dust off your Steinbeck) and the seaside Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Get Your Car Ready for a Road Trip

Before you stock up on car snacks and finalize your playlist, make sure that your ride is ready for the trip. Think: tire pressure check, wiper fluid top-off, battery test, and the like. Not sure where to start? We’re here to help with this handy road trip checklist. Print it out, take it to the garage, and get ready to hit the road!