The 17-Mile Drive is a private toll road through Pebble Beach, California, that connects Pacific Grove to Carmel-by-the-Sea along the Monterey Peninsula coast

The 17-Mile Drive is not a public highway — it is a gated, privately owned road managed by Pebble Beach Company. You pay a toll to enter, and the route takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to drive depending on how often you stop. The road winds through cypress groves, past rocky coves, and along white-sand beaches, with numbered pullouts marking specific viewpoints and rock formations. Most people drive it once in each direction or stop at multiple overlooks rather than driving straight through.

The road is open to the public during daylight hours year-round, though fog and weather can close sections without notice. You do not need a reservation, but you do need a vehicle — bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrians are not permitted. The toll is per vehicle, not per person, and you receive a paper receipt when you enter that you keep for the duration of your visit.

Key Takeaways

  • The 17-Mile Drive charges a toll per vehicle at the entrance gate; the amount varies by vehicle type and changes seasonally.
  • The drive takes 1.5 to 2 hours if you stop at pullouts, and you can enter from either the Pacific Grove or Carmel-by-the-Sea side.
  • Numbered stops mark specific attractions like Lone Cypress, Bird Rock, and Fanshell Beach, each with parking and short walking paths.
  • The road is open during daylight hours only, and weather or maintenance can close sections; check conditions before you go.
  • Bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrians cannot use the road, but you can park at pullouts and walk to viewpoints on foot.

Toll amounts and payment methods

The toll is charged per vehicle at the entrance gate. The amount depends on vehicle type — passenger cars, SUVs, and vans each have different rates — and the fee changes seasonally. As of recent years, passenger car tolls have ranged from roughly $10 to $12 depending on the season, but you should confirm the current rate before you arrive because prices are updated periodically.

You pay cash or card at the gate booth when you enter. The attendant gives you a paper receipt that you keep in your vehicle. If you lose the receipt, you may be charged again if you exit and re-enter, so keep it visible on your dashboard. The toll covers one entry and exit; you do not pay again if you stop multiple times along the route.

The two entry points and which direction to drive

You can enter from the north (Pacific Grove side) or the south (Carmel-by-the-Sea side). The Pacific Grove entrance is near Asilomar State Beach and connects to Highway 68. The Carmel entrance is near the town of Carmel and connects to Highway 1. Both gates are staffed during daylight hours, and both charge the same toll.

The drive itself is a loop, so the direction you choose determines which attractions you encounter first. Driving from Pacific Grove to Carmel, you pass Lone Cypress early and Bird Rock later. Driving from Carmel to Pacific Grove reverses the order. Neither direction is objectively better — most people choose based on which town they are staying in or which attractions they most want to see. You can also drive the entire loop and exit where you entered if you want to see everything in one trip.

Named stops and what you will see at each

The route has roughly 20 numbered pullouts and named viewpoints. Lone Cypress (Stop 6 from the Pacific Grove side) is a single tree on a rocky point and the most photographed spot on the drive. Bird Rock (Stop 9) is a large offshore rock covered with sea lions, seals, and seabirds; you view it from a distance with binoculars or a camera zoom. Fanshell Beach (Stop 4) is a harbor seal pupping ground that closes to pedestrians during breeding season (April through May) but remains visible from the parking area.

Other stops include Cypress Point Lookout, Pescadero Point, Blowhole, and Crocker Grove. Each has a small parking area and a short walking path — most walks are under 10 minutes. Some stops have benches or picnic tables. The pullouts are numbered and marked with signs, so you can stop at as many or as few as you want. There is no entrance fee to the pullouts themselves; the toll covers access to the entire road.

Timing, weather, and road closures

The drive is open from sunrise to sunset year-round. Exact opening and closing times change with the seasons — summer hours are typically 8 a.m. to dusk, and winter hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but you should confirm times before you go. The road can close temporarily due to fog, high winds, or maintenance. Sections may close while others remain open, so you might be able to drive part of the route even if the full loop is not available.

Fog is common on the Monterey Peninsula, especially in summer and early fall. Heavy fog can reduce visibility and close the road. Winter storms occasionally cause closures as well. Before you drive, check the Pebble Beach Company website or call the gate for current conditions. If the road is closed when you arrive, your toll is refunded.

Parking, walking, and what to bring

Each numbered pullout has a small parking lot. Parking is free and included with your toll. Most lots hold 10 to 30 vehicles, and they fill quickly during peak hours (late morning through mid-afternoon, especially on weekends). If a lot is full, you can drive to the next pullout. There is no central parking area; you park at the stops you want to visit.

Walking paths at each stop are short and paved or well-maintained dirt. Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers — the coast is windy and cooler than inland areas, even on warm days. Bring water and snacks if you plan to stop at multiple pullouts; there are no food vendors along the drive. Binoculars are useful for viewing Bird Rock and other offshore wildlife. Bring a camera or phone for photos, though the light is often best in late afternoon.

Combining the 17-Mile Drive with nearby attractions

The drive connects two towns with their own attractions. Pacific Grove has a downtown area, Asilomar State Beach, and the Monarch Grove Sanctuary (a winter home for monarch butterflies). Carmel-by-the-Sea has shops, restaurants, galleries, and Carmel Beach. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve is just south of Carmel and offers additional coastal trails and viewpoints. Many visitors drive the 17-Mile Drive as part of a larger day trip that includes one or both towns and nearby state parks.

If you are staying overnight, you can drive the route in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds. If you are passing through, plan 2 to 3 hours total, including time to stop at pullouts. The drive is popular year-round, so expect other vehicles and crowds at the most famous stops, especially Lone Cypress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive the 17-Mile Drive at night?

No, the road closes at sunset and does not reopen until sunrise. Exact closing times vary by season. Driving after dark is not permitted, and the gates are locked.

What if I want to bike or walk the 17-Mile Drive?

Bicycles and pedestrians are not permitted on the road itself. However, you can park at a pullout and walk the short paths to viewpoints. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, just south of Carmel, offers hiking trails along the coast if you want a longer walk.

Do I need to pay the toll twice if I drive the entire loop?

No. You pay once when you enter, and the receipt covers your entire visit, including driving the full loop and exiting from either gate. You only pay again if you leave and re-enter on a different day.

Is the 17-Mile Drive open in winter?

Yes, it is open year-round during daylight hours. Winter hours are shorter (typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.), and sections may close temporarily due to storms or fog. Check conditions before you go.

Can I stop and have a picnic along the 17-Mile Drive?

Yes. Several pullouts have picnic tables or benches. Bring your own food and water — there are no vendors along the route. Pack out all trash.