Located on California’s central coast, 17-Mile Drive stretches exactly 17 miles (27.4 km) through the Del Monte Forest, connecting Monterey, Pacific Grove, and Pebble Beach. The route is open year-round, with a vehicle fee of $11.25 per car as of 2026, though the fee gets refunded with a $35 purchase at participating Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants. Coordinates at the northern Pacific Grove gate sit at approximately 36.6254° N, 121.9502° W.
What’s the geographic context of 17-Mile Drive?
What are the key details about 17-Mile Drive?
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 17 miles (27.4 km) as a one-way scenic loop |
| Primary Entrances | Four gates: Pacific Grove (Sunset Drive), Pebble Beach (17-Mile Drive & Highway 1), Carmel (Ocean Avenue), and Monterey (Del Monte Avenue) |
| Fee (2026) | $11.25 per private vehicle; reimbursed with $35+ purchase at Pebble Beach Resorts dining locations; bicycles enter free at Pacific Grove gate |
| Marked Stops | 17 designated pullouts with interpretive signs, including Lone Cypress, Cypress Point Lookout, and Stillwater Cove |
| Elevation Range | Sea level to 325 feet (99 meters) above the ocean |
What’s the interesting background of 17-Mile Drive?
Originally named the Pebble Beach Peninsula Tour in 1881, the route was designed to connect the Hotel del Monte to the rugged coastline. The name “17-Mile Drive” comes from the original 17-mile carriage tour commissioned by railroad tycoon Charles Crocker, which circled the peninsula and returned to its starting point. By the 1920s, it had evolved into a motor route for wealthy visitors, featuring scenic overlooks and carefully placed viewpoints. The famed Lone Cypress, now a registered California landmark, was planted in 1892 and stands as a symbol of the drive’s heritage. The National Park Service notes that the forest’s Monterey pine is a relict species, once widespread during the Miocene era, now found almost exclusively along this stretch of coast.
When is the best time to visit 17-Mile Drive?
As of 2026, the best time to visit is between 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM, when gates are fully staffed and parking is most available. Peak season—April through October—draws over 2 million visitors annually, so early morning entry is recommended. The route is two lanes with alternating one-way sections in high-tourist months to manage traffic flow. While the entire drive is paved, only select stops have restrooms; the main facilities are located near the Lone Cypress and Spyglass Hill entrances. For cyclists, the best entry point is the Pacific Grove gate, which offers free access and ample shoulder space on the western side of the loop. Local transit, including Monterey-Salinas Transit buses, does not serve the drive directly, so personal vehicles or bike rentals are the primary options. Visitors with accessibility needs should note that some overlook areas have steep grades and limited curb cuts.
How long does it take to drive 17-Mile Drive?
Without stopping, you could blast through in under an hour. Honestly, that’s a shame—this is a drive meant to be savored. The posted speed limit is 25 mph, and with 17 scenic pullouts, most visitors spend closer to 2 hours exploring. Rush hour? Forget about it. Weekend afternoons in summer? Traffic crawls. Weekday mornings? Pure bliss. Plan for extra time if you’re photographing the Lone Cypress or grabbing photos at Cypress Point.
What’s the speed limit on 17-Mile Drive?
Most of the route sticks to 25 mph, which honestly feels perfect—fast enough to keep things moving, slow enough to take in the views. Near the Lone Cypress and Cypress Point Lookout, it drops to 15 mph. Those sections aren’t just for safety; they force you to stop and stare. Speed traps? Not really, but the Pebble Beach Company patrols do ticket speeders. (Yes, they really do.)
Are there tolls or fees to enter 17-Mile Drive?
You’ll pay $11.25 at any gate, but here’s the kicker: if you spend $35 or more at participating Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants, you get that fee back. Bikes enter for free at the Pacific Grove gate, which is a nice touch. No cash machines at the gates, so bring a card. (Pro tip: The Pebble Beach Market is a solid backup if you just need a quick bite.)
Can you bike 17-Mile Drive?
Cycling here is a dream, especially on the western side of the loop. The Pacific Grove gate is your best bet—no fee, plenty of room to merge, and gorgeous ocean views. Weekdays are ideal; weekends get packed with cars. The route is two lanes with bike lanes marked clearly. Just watch for tour buses hogging the road. Honestly, this is one of the best coastal bike rides in California.
Are pets allowed on 17-Mile Drive?
Dogs and other pets can ride along, but they need to stay in your vehicle or on a leash if you’re outside. No dogs on the beaches or trails—those areas are strictly for wildlife. The Pebble Beach Company is pretty strict about this, so don’t test your luck. (Yes, they really do enforce it.)
What are the must-see stops on 17-Mile Drive?
You’ll find 17 designated pullouts, but these three are non-negotiable:
- Lone Cypress – The iconic tree, now a California landmark, with a small parking area and interpretive signs.
- Cypress Point Lookout – Where the cliffs drop 80 feet straight into the Pacific. Bring your camera.
- Stillwater Cove – A quiet beach with tide pools and picnic spots. Perfect for a short walk.
Honestly, if you only have an hour, hit these three and call it a day.
Are there restrooms available along 17-Mile Drive?
Don’t expect facilities at every pullout. The main ones are at Lone Cypress and Spyglass Hill. If nature calls elsewhere, you’re out of luck. Plan ahead—especially if you’ve been hitting the clam chowder at Fisherman’s Wharf. (You have been warned.)
Is 17-Mile Drive open year-round?
Unlike some scenic routes that close for weather or maintenance, this one stays open 24/7. The gates are staffed from 7 AM to 6 PM, but you can still enter outside those hours if you’ve got an annual pass. Snow? Rare. Rain? More common, but the drive stays open unless conditions get truly dangerous. (And even then, they close it for hours, not days.)
Can you drive 17-Mile Drive in an RV or large vehicle?
Big rigs can make the drive, but here’s the catch: in summer, they often restrict RVs to certain hours or routes to ease congestion. Check the Pebble Beach Company website before you go. The tight turns near Cypress Point can be tricky for anything longer than a standard SUV. If your RV is over 24 feet, call ahead—they’ll tell you exactly where you can and can’t go.
What’s the elevation range on 17-Mile Drive?
You’ll start low near the Monterey gate, then climb steadily as you head toward Pebble Beach. The highest point is around 325 feet, giving you those dramatic cliffside views. The road isn’t steep, but some pullouts have sharp drop-offs—watch your step if you’re getting out for photos. (And maybe don’t wear heels.)
Are there guided tours available for 17-Mile Drive?
Most people just hop in their cars and go, but if you want the full experience, consider a guided tour. Companies like Monterey County Tours offer themed drives focusing on history, wildlife, or photography. Prices vary, but you’ll get insights you’d never pick up on your own. Honestly, if you’re traveling with kids, a guide makes the trip way more engaging.
