17 Mile Drive Tour Review: Is it Worth it?

Okay, so picture this: you are hugging the California coastline, with the ocean glistening on one side and those super impressive houses on the other. What am I getting at? This is, essentially, the 17 Mile Drive, a scenic loop snaking its way through the Monterey Peninsula. Loads of people claim it is an absolute must-do when you are in the area, yet is it actually worth your money and your time? Well, let’s explore it together.

First Impressions: Entering the Drive

Alright, so first things first, there is, actually, a fee to enter the 17 Mile Drive – at last check, it was about $11.75 per vehicle. Some folks might balk at that, still, think of it like you’re paying for the privilege of cruising through what’s pretty much a living postcard. As you roll up to the gate, you will get a map highlighting all the stops, which makes planning your drive, kind of, a bit easier. Right away, it has that real sense of manicured beauty; everything appears incredibly tidy and pristine. Is it worth the entry cost? So, that probably depends on what you are hoping to get out of it, in fact.

The Lone Cypress: Icon of the 17 Mile Drive

Then, honestly, you cannot chat about the 17 Mile Drive without mentioning the Lone Cypress. As a matter of fact, this solitary tree clinging to a rocky outcrop is probably the most photographed spot on the whole drive. Very often, there are lots of tourists around, so be ready to elbow your way for that perfect shot. All that said, seeing it in person has, literally, a different impact. I mean, you know? The way that it bravely stands there, withstanding the winds and waves, is, sort of, majestic. Arguably, it is just a tree, yet it feels iconic.

Pebble Beach and the Golf Courses

Of course, for golf enthusiasts, the 17 Mile Drive is home to Pebble Beach Golf Links, which some say, is one of the most renowned golf courses around the globe. Anyway, even if you don’t play golf, glimpsing the perfectly groomed greens against the backdrop of the Pacific is pretty cool. So, if you fancy a splurge, you could actually book a tee time, or grab lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the course. That said, bear in mind it could be fairly pricey.

Scenic Stops and Hidden Gems

So, moving beyond the Lone Cypress, there are all sorts of other spots worth pulling over for, you know? Fans Shell Beach, for one, is famed for its – yes, you guessed it – beaches loaded with seashells. Then, there is also the so-called “Ghost Tree,” another striking cypress, that’s kind of spooky yet equally awesome, in a way. In reality, what is that? For those eager to soak in the stunning coastline, there are plentiful vistas where you could just park, breathe in the fresh sea air, and generally just enjoy the natural scenery.

The Luxury Homes of Monterey Peninsula

That is not all. Something that makes the 17 Mile Drive so intriguing is the glimpses you get into the super luxurious houses lining the route, too it’s almost voyeuristic, actually. Most folks can only imagine living in those huge mansions with that priceless ocean views. What is really cool? So, even if you’re not in the market for a multi-million dollar property, the architecture is, usually, quite a sight.