17-Mile Drive

17-Mile Drive is located in Pebble Beach, California, accessible from Monterey and Carmel. You can enter from multiple gates, including those off Highway 1. It's a popular scenic drive that can be combined with visits to Monterey and Carmel.+1

No, 17-Mile Drive is a private toll road that runs parallel to Highway 1 for a portion of its route. It offers a distinct, curated coastal experience separate from the main highway.

While primarily a driving route, some sections are suitable for biking. Walking is generally limited to designated viewpoints and beaches. Biking is a great way to experience the drive if you're up for it.

The most common entry points are from Pacific Grove to the north and Carmel-by-the-Sea to the south. Each offers a slightly different perspective as you traverse the peninsula.

Public transportation does not directly service 17-Mile Drive. It's best accessed by private vehicle, ride-sharing service, or as part of a guided tour from Monterey or Carmel.

The entrance fee is approximately $11.25 per vehicle. This fee can be refunded if you spend $35 or more at Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants or if you are a guest at certain Pebble Beach hotels.+1

While some locals might suggest ways around it, the official way to avoid the fee is by dining at Pebble Beach Resorts or staying at specific hotels. Otherwise, the toll is required for access.

17-Mile Drive is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, specific gate hours can vary, and it may be closed for special events, especially during Monterey Car Week.

No advance booking is required for 17-Mile Drive. You pay the entrance fee upon arrival at one of the gates. However, booking a table at a restaurant for a fee waiver is recommended.

The entrance fee for 17-Mile Drive is per vehicle, not per person. This makes it a cost-effective option for groups or families traveling together.

The drive itself can take about 1-2 hours without significant stops. However, with 17 marked points of interest, many visitors spend 3-4 hours or even a full day exploring.

Key highlights include the Lone Cypress, Spanish Bay, Bird Rock, and the Ghost Trees. There are 17 marked stops, so explore what interests you most.

Yes, there are several dining options within Pebble Beach, including restaurants at The Lodge and other resorts. These can also help waive your entrance fee.+1

Absolutely! The dramatic coastline, iconic Lone Cypress, and diverse wildlife make it a photographer's paradise. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light.

You can often spot sea lions, harbor seals, sea otters, and a variety of seabirds at Bird Rock and along the coast. Keep an eye out for deer inland as well.

Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most dramatic and flattering light for coastal landscapes and the Lone Cypress.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views and dramatic cliffs. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies and seas.

The Lone Cypress is a must. Bird Rock offers opportunities for wildlife photography. Spanish Bay and the various pull-offs along the coast provide stunning vistas.+1

Drone usage is generally restricted on private property like 17-Mile Drive and within Pebble Beach. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying.

Experiment with different angles from the designated viewing area. Shooting from a lower perspective can emphasize its resilience against the ocean backdrop.