17 Mile Drive – Road Trip in California
Have you ever heard about the 17 Mile drive? It is one of the most popular scenic drives in the United States, between Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pacific Grove. You follow a winding road along the coast, enjoy the view of the white beaches, pass by the famous mansions and golf courses of the West Coast, and of course stop at Pebble Beach.
Things to Know About the 17 Mile Drive
This Road trip actually requires to pay a fee to use the toll road ($9.25), as the 17 mile drive is a toll road. But, you should know that if you decide to eat at any Pebble Beach Company Restaurant and spend $25 or more, you will be reimbursed, as they subtract the toll fee from your bill. You might ask yourself why pay to see the coast? It is worth it, because you will never be able to visit Pebble Beach unless you take the 17 Mile drive, but also because you will never really be able to experience such spectacular scenic views on the West Coast like at the 17 Mile drive. Yes, other parts or the coastline are just as beautiful and they are for free; trees, winding roads and the ocean can’t look so different 30 miles up or down the coast and you are right. For some it is a rip off, others have had a great experience there, so the opinions about the 17 Mile Drive differ quite a lot.
Also, you should know that there are 5 entry gates to get on the 17 Mile drive. The two main entries are Pacific Grove Gate and the Highway 1 Gate ( the Pebble Beach entry); then you can also enter through the Carmel Gate, the Samuel F.B. Morse Gate or the Country Club Gate (the latter two are in Pacific Grove as well). At the entrance you receive a map to help you find your way during your road trip, but if you did get lost or were not sure of the route to follow…. just follow the red-painted dashes! Oh! and one more thing… I know the squirrels are such cute little things you can’t resist. But remember, do not feed the animals, it creates a nutrition problem, makes them aggressive and you might even be bitten!
Where to Stay at the 17 Mile Drive
In Carmel, the Vagabond’s House Inn is a great comfortable place to stay. The staff is very friendly and the place has a great atmosphere with ponds and beautiful gardens. They accept pets, so its the right place, if you brought your dog, but try to avoid it, if you have any allergies. If you are taking advantage of the whole golfing experience while traveling along the 17 mile drive, you must stay at the Spanish Bay Inn, in Pebble Beach. The outstanding service and friendly staff are just one of the great aspects of this place, aside from the food, the view, etc… which make this hotel a wonderful destination to hang out a bit and relax.
Where to Eat at the 17 Mile Drive
On the 17 Mile Drive, you find numerous good restaurants with a wide variety of cuisine to choose from. At Spanish Bay you should consider Roy’s restaurant, for the best quality and the price is much better than at other restaurants you might find around. And don’t forget to get your toll road fee deducted from your bill. If you are looking for some picnic spots, you can find some nice places with picnic tables between Point Joe and Seal Rock.
What to see at the 17 Mile Drive
They are a few touristic stops that you cannot miss. The Lone Cypress is the most photographed tree in the world. It stands alone facing the ocean and watching the wave crash on the rocks. Bird Rock is another great viewpoint. Its name is misleading as Sea Lions and Seals also come rest and pose for pictures. Be aware… the smell is quite an experience, too! Do you know what a ghost tree is? Well ,come find out! The Ghost Trees are Monterrey Cypress trees attacked over the years by sea salt and wind, turning them white. Spanish Bay is a great stop for the view, the golf and the deers! And of course you can’t miss the fabulous and famous luxurious mansions, one bigger than the next. Take a break at the Fanshell Overlook, and feel the white sand beneath your feet before daring touching the water! And finally the Cypress Point lookout is an amazing panoramic view of the coast you must see…
The 17 Mile Drive is an amazing scenic, fun and entertaining short Road trip. Come enjoy the incredible views of the West Coast and discover what so many people enjoyed before you!
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