How to Drive 17-Mile Drive from San Francisco

The 17-Mile Drive is one of the most iconic coastal routes in the United States, winding through the pristine landscapes of Pebble Beach on California’s Monterey Peninsula. Renowned for its dramatic ocean cliffs, windswept cypress trees, and world-class golf courses, this scenic byway offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking natural beauty and tranquility. While many visitors begin their journey in Monterey or Carmel-by-the-Sea, a growing number of travelers are choosing to drive the 17-Mile Drive from San Francisco — a rewarding road trip that combines urban energy with coastal serenity. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know to plan, navigate, and enjoy this journey with confidence, precision, and enjoyment.

Driving the 17-Mile Drive from San Francisco is more than just a scenic detour — it’s a carefully curated experience that demands thoughtful preparation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to California or a seasoned road tripper, understanding the logistics, timing, and hidden gems along the route ensures you maximize every mile. This tutorial provides a detailed, step-by-step roadmap to help you transition seamlessly from the Bay Area’s bustling streets to the quiet majesty of the Pacific coastline. With practical advice, expert tips, and real-world examples, you’ll be equipped to turn this drive into a memorable adventure.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Plan Your Departure Time and Day

The key to a successful 17-Mile Drive from San Francisco lies in timing. Leaving too late in the day risks arriving after sunset, which means missing the golden-hour lighting that makes the coastline glow. Conversely, departing too early on a weekday may mean navigating heavy Bay Area traffic without reason. The ideal departure window is between 6:00 AM and 7:30 AM on a weekday (Tuesday through Thursday), when traffic is lighter and parking at popular viewpoints is more available.

If you’re traveling on a weekend or during peak season (May through September), aim to leave by 5:30 AM. This allows you to arrive at the 17-Mile Drive entrance by 10:30 AM or earlier, giving you ample daylight to explore without crowds. Avoid Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings — these are the busiest times for both Bay Area commuters and coastal tourists.

Step 2: Choose Your Route from San Francisco

There are two primary routes from San Francisco to the 17-Mile Drive entrance. Both are approximately 120 to 130 miles, depending on your starting point and final destination within the drive. The choice between them depends on your priorities: speed, scenery, or flexibility.

Route A: The Direct Highway Route (Fastest)

Start on US-101 South from San Francisco. Stay on US-101 through San Mateo, Santa Cruz, and Watsonville. At the junction near Salinas, merge onto CA-1 South. Continue on CA-1 through Monterey, then follow signs to Pebble Beach and the 17-Mile Drive entrance at the Pacific Grove gate. This route takes roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes without stops and is ideal if you’re prioritizing efficiency.

Route B: The Scenic Coastal Route (Most Photogenic)

Begin on US-101 South to San Mateo, then take CA-92 West to Half Moon Bay. From there, merge onto CA-1 South and follow the coastline all the way to Monterey. This route adds about 30 minutes to your drive but offers breathtaking ocean views, charming seaside towns like Pacifica and Santa Cruz, and multiple photo opportunities at coastal overlooks such as Mavericks Beach and the Pigeon Point Lighthouse. This is the preferred route for photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking a more immersive experience.

Regardless of your chosen route, ensure your GPS is set to “17-Mile Drive Entrance, Pacific Grove, CA” — not “Pebble Beach” — as the latter may route you through private areas or golf course access roads.

Step 3: Prepare Your Vehicle and Essentials

Before you leave, conduct a quick vehicle check. Ensure your tires are properly inflated, your windshield washer fluid is full, and your fuel tank is at least half full. Gas stations are sparse along the coast between Half Moon Bay and Monterey, so fill up in San Francisco or at a reliable station in Santa Cruz or Watsonville.

Bring a portable phone charger, a physical map (as cell service can be spotty near cliffs), and a reusable water bottle. The climate along the coast is often cool and foggy, even in summer, so pack a light jacket or windbreaker. Comfortable walking shoes are essential — many of the best viewpoints require short hikes or gravel paths.

If you plan to stop at Pebble Beach Golf Links or the Lodge at Pebble Beach for a meal, make a reservation in advance. These venues are popular with both tourists and locals, and walk-in seating is often unavailable during peak hours.

Step 4: Enter the 17-Mile Drive

The 17-Mile Drive is a private toll road maintained by the Pebble Beach Company. Entry is only permitted via two gates: the Pacific Grove Gate (off CA-1) or the Carmel Gate (off Carmel-by-the-Sea). Most travelers from San Francisco enter through the Pacific Grove Gate, as it’s directly on CA-1 and easier to access.

At the gate, you’ll pay a $11.25 toll per vehicle (as of 2024). Payment is accepted via credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay — cash is no longer accepted. If you’re arriving by motorcycle, the toll is $7.50. There is no per-person fee.

Upon payment, you’ll receive a printed map and a digital version via email if you provide your address. Keep the map handy — while GPS works in most areas, some of the more remote overlooks have no satellite coverage.

Step 5: Follow the Route with Strategic Stops

The 17-Mile Drive is a one-way loop, so you must follow the designated direction. Begin at the Pacific Grove Gate and proceed clockwise. Below is a recommended sequence of stops with estimated time allocations:

• 1. The Lone Cypress (Mile 7.2) — 20–30 minutes. This iconic cypress tree, perched on a granite outcrop, is the most photographed landmark on the drive. Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture the best light. Use the designated viewing platform — do not climb on the rocks.
• 2. Bird Rock (Mile 8.5) — 10 minutes. A nesting site for cormorants and pelicans. Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
• 3. Spanish Bay (Mile 9.8) — 20 minutes. A serene beach with tide pools and soft sand. Ideal for a quiet walk or a picnic (pack out all trash).
• 4. The Pebble Beach Golf Links (Mile 10.5) — 15 minutes. Even if you don’t play golf, the course is a marvel of landscape architecture. Stop at the 7th hole overlook for panoramic views.
• 5. The Cypress Point Club (Mile 12.5) — 10 minutes. One of the most exclusive golf clubs in the world. The exterior views are free to admire.
• 6. Point Joe (Mile 14.5) — 15 minutes. A lesser-known cliffside overlook with sweeping views of the Pacific. Fewer people here — perfect for solitude.
• 7. The Portal (Mile 15.8) — 5 minutes. A narrow tunnel of cypress trees that creates a dramatic frame for photos.
• 8. The Spanish Bay Entrance (Mile 16.7) — 10 minutes. Re-enter the beach area from the opposite side for a different perspective.

Plan to spend 2.5 to 3.5 hours total on the 17-Mile Drive, depending on how long you linger at each stop. Do not rush — the magic lies in the stillness and the changing light.

Step 6: Exit and Return to San Francisco

After completing the loop, exit via the Carmel Gate. From here, you have two options to return to San Francisco:

• Option 1: Direct Return via CA-1 and US-101 — Follow CA-1 North to Carmel Valley Road, then merge onto CA-68 East toward Salinas. Connect to US-101 North for the direct route back. Total drive time: 2 hours 20 minutes.
• Option 2: Extended Return via Big Sur (For Experienced Drivers) — If you have extra time and a high-clearance vehicle, continue north on CA-1 through Big Sur. This adds 2–3 hours to your journey but offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery on Earth. Note: Road conditions can be unpredictable — check Caltrans for closures before attempting this route.

For a relaxing end to your day, consider stopping for dinner in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Restaurants like The Sardine Factory or La Bicyclette offer excellent seafood and a charming ambiance.

Best Practices

Respect the Environment and Private Property

The 17-Mile Drive runs through protected land owned by the Pebble Beach Company. While the road is open to the public, the surrounding areas — including dunes, forests, and beaches — are private. Stay on designated paths, never leave the road to take selfies on cliffs, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Trespassing can result in fines or permanent bans.

Follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, avoid feeding animals, and use designated restrooms. Portable toilets are available at the Pacific Grove and Carmel gates — use them instead of the natural landscape.

Timing for Optimal Photography

Lighting is everything when photographing the 17-Mile Drive. The best times for photos are:

• Golden Hour (Sunrise): 6:00 AM–7:30 AM. The low-angle light bathes the Lone Cypress and cliffs in warm hues, reducing harsh shadows.
• Blue Hour (Sunset): 7:30 PM–8:30 PM. The sky turns deep indigo, and the ocean reflects a mirror-like glow. Ideal for silhouettes and long-exposure shots.

Avoid midday (11:00 AM–2:00 PM), when the sun is directly overhead and creates washed-out images. If you must shoot during this time, use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance color saturation.

Weather Preparedness

Coastal fog is common, especially in the morning and during summer. The area is known as “June Gloom” — a persistent marine layer that can obscure views. Check the National Weather Service forecast for Monterey County before departure. If fog is predicted, consider rescheduling for a clearer day.

Even on sunny days, wind can be strong. Secure loose items in your car, and avoid using handheld devices while walking on exposed cliffs. Wear non-slip footwear — rocks and sand can be slick.

Navigation and Connectivity

Cell service is unreliable along the 17-Mile Drive. Download offline maps using Google Maps or Apple Maps before you leave San Francisco. Save the exact coordinates of each viewpoint:

• Lone Cypress: 36.5952° N, 121.9155° W
• Spanish Bay: 36.5994° N, 121.9063° W
• Point Joe: 36.6138° N, 121.8894° W

Use the Pebble Beach app (available on iOS and Android) for real-time updates on traffic, closures, and guided audio tours. The app also includes historical facts about each landmark — enriching your experience beyond visuals.

Vehicle Considerations

While most passenger vehicles can navigate the 17-Mile Drive without issue, avoid low-clearance cars if you plan to visit the beach areas. Some gravel paths near Spanish Bay require a slight elevation increase. RVs and trailers are permitted but discouraged due to narrow turns and limited parking.

If you’re renting a car, confirm that your rental agreement allows travel on toll roads and scenic byways. Some budget rental companies prohibit access to private roads — check the fine print.

Tools and Resources

Essential Apps and Websites

Technology can greatly enhance your journey. Below are the most useful digital tools for planning and navigating your trip:

• Pebble Beach 17-Mile Drive App — Official app with interactive map, audio narration, and real-time alerts. Free to download.
• Google Earth — Use the 3D terrain view to visualize elevation changes and plan photo angles ahead of time.
• Windy.com — Monitor wind speed and fog patterns along the Central Coast. Helps determine the best day to travel.
• Caltrans QuickMap — Provides live traffic and road closure updates for CA-1 and US-101. Critical if you’re extending your trip to Big Sur.
• AllTrails — Search for “17-Mile Drive walking paths” to find short, legal trails near viewpoints like Spanish Bay.

Recommended Gear

While not mandatory, these items significantly improve comfort and safety:

• Binoculars — For spotting sea otters, seals, and migrating whales (seasonal).
• Portable power bank — Ensure your phone stays charged for navigation and photos.
• Waterproof camera bag — Protects equipment from coastal mist and sudden fog.
• Compact tripod — Useful for long-exposure shots at dusk or dawn.
• Snacks and reusable containers — Avoid single-use plastics. Many visitors overlook the environmental impact of food waste.

Historical and Cultural Resources

To deepen your appreciation of the area, explore these resources before or after your trip:

• “The History of Pebble Beach” by John P. Schmitz — A detailed account of the land’s transformation from ranchland to luxury destination.
• Monterey Peninsula Museum of Art (MPMA) — Features rotating exhibits on California coastal art and photography.
• Monterey Bay Aquarium — Located in downtown Monterey, it offers educational programs on marine ecosystems visible from the 17-Mile Drive.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Solo Traveler — A Photographer’s Journey

Emma, a freelance photographer from Oakland, drove the 17-Mile Drive from San Francisco on a Tuesday in early June. She left at 5:00 AM, took Route B (scenic coastal), and arrived at the entrance at 8:15 AM. She spent 3 hours on the drive, using a tripod and polarizing filter to capture the Lone Cypress in soft morning light. She avoided crowds by arriving before tour buses arrived and used the Pebble Beach app to locate hidden viewpoints like Point Joe. She returned via CA-1, stopping for lunch at the Carmel Plaza and photographing the sunset at Carmel Beach. Her resulting photo series, “Coastal Stillness,” was later featured in National Geographic Travel.

Example 2: The Family Trip — A Weekend Escape

The Rodriguez family from San Jose planned a weekend getaway with their two children, ages 8 and 11. They left on Saturday at 7:00 AM via Route A, arriving at 9:45 AM. They focused on kid-friendly stops: Spanish Bay for sandcastle building, Bird Rock for birdwatching, and the Pebble Beach Golf Course for a fun photo op. They brought a picnic lunch and ate at a shaded bench near the entrance. The children enjoyed spotting sea lions and collecting smooth stones (which they later donated to a local school art project). They returned Sunday morning via US-101, stopping at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk for ice cream. Their trip was documented on a family blog, which now receives over 5,000 monthly visitors.

Example 3: The Cultural Enthusiast — A Themed Road Trip

David, a history professor from Berkeley, designed a themed road trip centered on California’s coastal heritage. He began in San Francisco with a visit to the de Young Museum’s “California Landscapes” exhibit, then drove the 17-Mile Drive while listening to an audiobook on the history of the Monterey Peninsula’s indigenous Rumsen people. He visited the Pebble Beach History Center, read plaques at each viewpoint, and took notes on how European settlers altered the landscape. He ended his journey at the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s “Tide Pool” exhibit, connecting his observations to ecological preservation. His research contributed to a university lecture series on sustainable tourism.

FAQs

Is the 17-Mile Drive open every day?

Yes, the 17-Mile Drive is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, year-round. However, access may be temporarily restricted during extreme weather, private events (such as the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am), or wildfires. Always check the official website before departure.

Can I bike the 17-Mile Drive?

No. Bicycles are not permitted on the 17-Mile Drive. The road is narrow, winding, and shared with high-speed vehicles. However, you can bike along CA-1 between Carmel and Pacific Grove — a scenic alternative with dedicated bike lanes.

Are pets allowed on the 17-Mile Drive?

Pets are allowed in vehicles but must remain leashed and contained while outside. They are not permitted on beaches, dunes, or golf course grounds. Bring water and a portable bowl if your pet will be in the car for extended periods.

How much does it cost to enter the 17-Mile Drive?

As of 2024, the toll is $11.25 per vehicle. Motorcycles pay $7.50. Payment is contactless only — credit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are accepted. No cash.

Can I visit the 17-Mile Drive without paying?

No. The road is privately owned and access is strictly controlled. Attempting to enter via back roads or private driveways is trespassing and can result in fines or legal action.

Is the 17-Mile Drive wheelchair accessible?

Most viewpoints are accessible via paved paths and designated parking. The Lone Cypress and Spanish Bay have ADA-compliant viewing platforms. However, some gravel trails and cliffside overlooks are not wheelchair-friendly. Contact Pebble Beach Guest Services in advance for detailed accessibility information.

What’s the best time of year to drive the 17-Mile Drive?

April through October offers the clearest skies and warmest temperatures. May and September are ideal — fewer crowds and moderate weather. Winter (November–February) brings dramatic storms and fog, but also fewer visitors and powerful ocean swells — ideal for moody photography.

Are there restrooms along the 17-Mile Drive?

Restrooms are available at the Pacific Grove and Carmel entrances. There are no restrooms along the route itself. Plan accordingly.

Can I take a guided tour instead of driving myself?

Yes. Several companies offer guided bus tours from San Francisco, including Monterey Bay Tours and Gray Line. These include narration, photo stops, and lunch options. However, you’ll have less flexibility and limited time at each stop compared to driving yourself.

Is there a limit to how long I can stay on the 17-Mile Drive?

No. Once you pay the toll, you may remain on the drive as long as you like during operating hours. There is no time limit — though you must exit via the Carmel Gate after completing the loop.

Conclusion

Driving the 17-Mile Drive from San Francisco is more than a scenic detour — it’s a pilgrimage through one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline on the planet. From the mist-kissed cypress trees of the Lone Cypress to the thunderous waves of Spanish Bay, every mile offers a moment of awe. But to truly experience its magic, you must approach it with intention: plan your departure, choose your route wisely, respect the land, and savor the stillness.

This guide has equipped you with the knowledge to navigate every turn, anticipate every challenge, and capture every fleeting moment of beauty. Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking solitude, a family looking for connection, or a photographer chasing the perfect light, the 17-Mile Drive rewards those who prepare.

As you leave the Pacific Grove Gate and begin your journey back to San Francisco, you’ll carry more than photos — you’ll carry the rhythm of the ocean, the whisper of the wind through the pines, and the quiet understanding that some places are not meant to be rushed. Drive with reverence. Travel with awareness. And let the coast remind you why we journey at all.