Pebble Beach is home to one of the most unforgettable coastal drives in the world—and it’s easy to see why. With every curve of the road, you’ll pass dramatic cliffs, ancient cypress trees, and waves crashing against rocky shores. Known as 17-Mile Drive, this stretch of California coastline is packed with jaw-dropping views and photo-worthy stops. Whether you’re visiting for the day or just passing through, this drive is pure California magic.
Huckleberry Hill
Huckleberry Hill, blanketed with lush coastal huckleberry, offers inspiration much like it did for literary giants Robert Louis Stevenson and John Steinbeck. As the highest coastal viewpoint on this drive, it provides a sweeping ocean view that captivates any visitor.
The air is filled with the scent of pine, creating a serene atmosphere. This ridge stands as a testament to the natural beauty that inspired countless works of art and literature. A walk here is not just a stroll but a journey through time and creativity, where nature’s muse awaits.
Spanish Bay Beach & Boardwalk
Spanish Bay Beach & Boardwalk feels like a mix of Scottish links and California surf. This windswept stretch is known for its snow-white dunes and seaside boardwalk. The Links at Spanish Bay add a touch of elegance to the rugged coastline.
Evenings are magical here, with a bagpiper serenading the setting sun, creating an enchanting ambiance. The 2.9-mile trail invites leisurely strolls, encouraging visitors to linger beyond a quick photo stop. Each visit paints a new picture, inviting relaxation and wonder along this captivating stretch of coastline.
Shepherd’s Knoll
High above the sea, Shepherd’s Knoll offers an unparalleled vista of Monterey Bay. This bird’s-eye view, almost 800 feet above sea level, showcases the breathtaking expanse of the bay. Named for Abraham D. Shepard, a railroad builder whose scenic road evolved into today’s 17-Mile Drive, this overlook is steeped in history.
The climb into Del Monte Forest rewards visitors with pine-scented air and a rare perspective of the coastline. It’s a place where nature and history converge, inviting reflection and admiration. The crisp air and panoramic views make it a must-see stop along the drive.
The Restless Sea
At The Restless Sea, nature’s power is on full display. Waves perpetually collide over submerged rocks, creating a frothy spectacle that defines this part of the coastline. Known as the loudest, most dramatic shoreline on the drive, it captivates with its unending turbulence.
Brochures highlight this unique spot, where the sea’s energy is both compelling and humbling. It’s a place where you can feel the ocean’s heartbeat, relentless and untamed. As you stand before this natural marvel, the crashing waves tell their own story, echoing the untamed spirit of the sea.
Point Joe
Point Joe is a sailor’s cautionary tale turned picturesque destination. In the 19th century, this rocky spit was often mistaken for the safe entrance to Monterey Bay, leading to numerous shipwrecks. Today, interpretive signs tell these stories, making it a historical treasure.
The tide-polished debris that surfaces after storms offers a tangible link to the past. It’s a place where the sea’s beauty and danger are intertwined. As you explore, the whispers of history guide your journey, revealing secrets of the sea and those who dared to navigate its waters.
China Rock
China Rock holds echoes of a bygone era, where soot-stained boulders whisper tales of a late-1800s Chinese fishing hamlet. Here, lean-to huts clung to granite, a testament to the resilience of early settlers.
The caked cooking smoke remains visible, offering a tangible link to immigrant history. It’s a place of reflection, where past meets present in a serene coastal setting. As you walk among the boulders, the stories of those who lived here come alive, preserving a piece of history along this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Bird Rock
Bird Rock is a lively natural stage, where the air thrums with the sound of cormorants, pelicans, sea lions, and harbor seals. This offshore stack serves as a natural rookery and haul-out, inviting wildlife enthusiasts to bring binoculars.
The constant bark and wing-beat create an energetic soundtrack, making it one of the peninsula’s most vibrant wildlife scenes. Here, nature’s chorus performs daily, a testament to the area’s rich biodiversity. Whether you’re a birdwatcher or casual visitor, Bird Rock offers a glimpse into the dynamic life along the coast.
Seal Rock Picnic Area
Seal Rock Picnic Area offers the perfect blend of relaxation and nature. Here, families can enjoy a delightful picnic while watching seals frolic on the nearby rocks.
The rhythmic crashing of waves provides a soothing soundtrack, creating an ambiance of serenity. Children often gaze in awe at the playful sea creatures, making memories that last a lifetime.
Amidst the fresh coastal air, visitors find a moment of tranquility. As the sun sets, the area transforms into a picturesque scene, capturing the heart of every traveler.
Fanshell Beach Overlook
Fanshell Beach Overlook is a must-visit spot for nature lovers. Known for its breathtaking views, this location provides a panoramic vista of pristine white sands meeting the turquoise waters.
Birdwatchers frequent this area, drawn by the variety of seabirds that inhabit the region. The gentle breeze carries the scent of the ocean, invigorating the senses.
Visitors often capture photographs here, hoping to encapsulate the beauty in a frame. Each visit feels unique, offering new perspectives of the ever-changing coastline.
Cypress Point Lookout
Cypress Point Lookout is an iconic landmark along the drive. Known for its striking cypress trees that cling tenaciously to rocky cliffs, it offers an awe-inspiring view.
The lookout provides a front-row seat to the dramatic interplay of land and sea. As waves crash against the cliffs, visitors feel the raw power of nature.
Photographers find endless inspiration here, especially during sunset when the sky turns into a canvas of colors. It’s a place where nature’s beauty unfolds in its purest form.
Crocker Grove
Crocker Grove is a hidden gem within Pebble Beach, home to some of the oldest Monterey Cypress trees in existence. Walking through this grove feels like stepping back in time.
The trees stand as silent witnesses to history, their gnarled branches weaving a tapestry of natural wonder. Visitors find peace wandering the serene paths, surrounded by lush greenery.
This magical grove invites introspection, offering a quiet escape from the bustling world. Nature enthusiasts often leave with a renewed sense of calm.
The Lone Cypress
The Lone Cypress is arguably the most photographed tree in North America, standing proudly on a rocky outcrop against the backdrop of the sea. Its resilience is legendary, having withstood the test of time for over 250 years.
This solitary tree symbolizes endurance and beauty, drawing countless visitors who marvel at its tenacity. Each angle reveals a new facet of its charm, making it a favorite subject for artists and photographers alike.
The sight of The Lone Cypress evokes a sense of wonder and appreciation for nature’s artistry.