Fanshell Overlook
A scenic overlook on the iconic 17-Mile Drive, famous for harbor seals and stunning Pacific vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Seal pupping season
Fanshell Overlook
Best Time
Seal pupping season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic overlook on the iconic 17-Mile Drive, famous for harbor seals and stunning Pacific vistas.
"Must visit this place if you’re visiting SFO or California Trip."
🚗 Pay for the Drive
The $12.25 entry fee for 17-Mile Drive is worth it for cleaner, quieter access.
🦭 Seal Season Access
Check for seasonal closures during seal pupping (April-June) for best viewing.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 112 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Harbor Seal Pups
Fanshell Beach
Witness adorable harbor seal pups and their mothers basking on the sand during the spring pupping season.
Dramatic Coastal Views
17-Mile Drive
Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastline, and iconic cypress trees.
White Sand Beach
Fanshell Beach
A beautiful stretch of white sand offering a serene spot to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Seal Sightings
17-Mile Drive Entry Fee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Pay for the Drive
The $12.25 entry fee for 17-Mile Drive is worth it for cleaner, quieter access.
🦭 Seal Season Access
Check for seasonal closures during seal pupping (April-June) for best viewing.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal shots and wildlife.
🚶♀️ Explore the Overlooks
Stop at multiple points along the 17-Mile Drive for diverse scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Pay for the Drive
The $12.25 entry fee for 17-Mile Drive is worth it for cleaner, quieter access.
🦭 Seal Season Access
Check for seasonal closures during seal pupping (April-June) for best viewing.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal shots and wildlife.
🚶♀️ Explore the Overlooks
Stop at multiple points along the 17-Mile Drive for diverse scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of the 17-Mile Drive, with Fanshell Overlook being a highlight for its unique seal viewing opportunities. The scenic route offers stunning coastal vistas and a peaceful escape, though some find the entry fee a bit high.
"Visited beach in the Weekend while visiting SFO trip. 17 mile drive is extremely good and neat to see. Must visit this place if you’re visiting SFO or California Trip. Entrance fee is around $12 for visitors. Must visit place in California."
Madhu Shankar Pamidimarri
"Definitely worth the 10.75 to enter. Also the 10 75 is reimbursed if you eat at a restaurant in pebble beach. But if you don't want to fight people or get your blood pressure raised for a parking spot pay the 10.75 and drive on the 17 mile drive road. It's cleaner and quieter."
Sunnayna Singh
"Great beautiful beach to just sit and take in the pacific breeze and the sounds of the waves breaking on the rocks...."
Waleed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fanshell Overlook is located along the famous 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach. You can enter the drive from gates in Pacific Grove, Carmel, or off Highway 1. There is a per-vehicle entry fee.
Yes, there are designated parking areas at the overlook. However, it can get busy, especially during peak season.
While the 17-Mile Drive is primarily for vehicles, there are pedestrian and bike paths in some sections. However, driving is the most common way to access the overlooks.
The Pacific Grove and Carmel gates are popular choices. The specific gate you choose might influence the order in which you see the various viewpoints.
Most visitors agree the fee is well worth it for the stunning scenery, access to iconic spots like Fanshell Overlook, and the well-maintained road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for the 17-Mile Drive is approximately $12.25 per vehicle. This fee grants access to all the scenic points along the route.
Yes, the entry fee can sometimes be reimbursed if you dine at a restaurant within Pebble Beach. It's best to check with the restaurant directly for current policies.
Discounts are not commonly advertised, but the fee is generally considered a good value for the experience.
The 17-Mile Drive is typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Pebble Beach website for the most up-to-date hours.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Fanshell Overlook. Access is granted upon payment of the 17-Mile Drive entry fee.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are of the harbor seals on the beach and the sweeping ocean vistas. The white sand beach itself also makes for beautiful shots.
Sunset is often recommended for its beautiful lighting, but daytime offers clear views of the seals.
Drone usage is generally restricted in protected wildlife areas and private properties like Pebble Beach. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing seals from a distance, while a wide-angle lens is great for the expansive coastal landscapes.
While specific tours for Fanshell Overlook might be rare, many general Monterey Peninsula photography tours will include stops along the 17-Mile Drive.
🎫 🦭 Wildlife Viewing
The primary pupping season for harbor seals at Fanshell Beach is typically from April to June. Outside of this period, seals may be less common.
Seals are wild animals and their presence can vary. They are most likely to be seen resting on the beach during pupping season.
No, it's important to maintain a safe and respectful distance from the seals to avoid disturbing them, especially during pupping season.
Besides harbor seals, you might spot sea lions, various seabirds, and if you're lucky, sea otters along the 17-Mile Drive.
Yes, the coastal environment attracts a variety of seabirds, making it a decent spot for birdwatching.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit