Explore the Scenic Beauty of 17 Mile Drive, California
Discover the breathtaking coastal views and iconic landmarks along 17 Mile Drive in California, a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Embark on a breathtaking journey along the iconic 17 Mile Drive, where stunning coastal views, golf courses, and unique wildlife await. This picturesque route in California offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it a must-visit for every traveler.
A brief summary to 17 Mile Dr
- California, US
Local tips
- Plan your visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife watching, especially at Bird Rock, where you can see sea lions and various bird species.
- Stop at one of the scenic overlooks to fully appreciate the dramatic coastal views and take stunning photographs.
- Consider visiting the nearby town of Carmel-by-the-Sea for charming shops and art galleries after your drive.
- Check for any special events at Pebble Beach Golf Links during your visit, as they host various tournaments and activities throughout the year.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in the center of Carmel-by-the-Sea, start at the intersection of Ocean Avenue and San Carlos Street. Head south on San Carlos Street towards the ocean for about two blocks until you reach the intersection with 5th Avenue. Turn left onto 5th Avenue and continue walking until you reach Scenic Road. Turn right onto Scenic Road, which will lead you towards the coast. Follow the road as it curves along the coastline, and you will eventually reach the entrance to 17 Mile Drive. The scenic views along Scenic Road will provide a beautiful walk along the way.
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Biking
From the center of Carmel-by-the-Sea, you can rent a bike from one of the local shops. Start at the corner of Ocean Avenue and San Carlos Street. Head south on San Carlos Street until you reach 5th Avenue. Turn left on 5th Avenue, then take another left onto Scenic Road. Continue straight on Scenic Road, enjoying the coastal views as you ride towards the entrance of 17 Mile Drive. The bike ride will take you approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace.
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Public Transportation
To reach 17 Mile Drive using public transportation, start at the Carmel Plaza bus stop located at the intersection of Mission Street and 6th Avenue. Take the Monterey-Salinas Transit Line 1 bus towards Monterey. Get off at the bus stop at the entrance of 17 Mile Drive (look for signs indicating the entrance). The bus ride will take about 15 minutes. Once you arrive, you can explore the beautiful scenery and landmarks along the drive.
Discover more about 17 Mile Dr
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Presidio of Monterey
3.0 km
Explore the rich military history and stunning coastal views at the historic Presidio of Monterey, a unique landmark in California.
Welcome to the city of Monterey
3.8 km
Discover the historical allure of Monterey, California, where scenic coastal views and rich maritime heritage create an unforgettable travel experience.
John Denver Memorial
3.9 km
Explore the serene John Denver Memorial on the Pacific coast, a beautiful tribute to the legendary singer-songwriter amidst stunning ocean views.
601 Lighthouse Ave
4.0 km
Explore the historic Lighthouse at Monterey, a stunning coastal landmark rich in maritime history and breathtaking ocean views.
Cannery Row Worker Shacks
4.2 km
Discover the historic Cannery Row Worker Shacks in Monterey, California, where the legacy of the sardine canning industry comes to life.
Monterey Bay Habitats
4.2 km
Explore the enchanting Monterey Bay Habitats, where marine ecosystems come alive and unforgettable experiences await in Monterey, California.
monumento a John Steinbeck
4.2 km
Explore the John Steinbeck Monument in Monterey, a tribute to one of America's literary giants, surrounded by stunning coastal views and rich history.
Pacific Biological Laboratories (Doc’s Lab)
4.2 km
Discover the historic Pacific Biological Laboratories, where marine biology meets literary legacy in the heart of Monterey's Cannery Row.
Pacific Biological Laboratories
4.2 km
Explore the historic Pacific Biological Laboratories on Cannery Row, a hub of marine biology and literary history in beautiful Monterey, California.
Sea Otters
4.2 km
Explore the captivating Sea Otters exhibit at Monterey Bay Aquarium, where playful marine mammals take center stage in a breathtaking underwater habitat.
The Open Sea
4.2 km
Explore the captivating marine life at The Open Sea exhibit in Monterey, California, where education meets breathtaking ocean beauty.
Monterey Canning Company
4.2 km
Explore the Monterey Canning Company and immerse yourself in shopping, dining, and the rich maritime heritage of Cannery Row.
Cannery Row
4.2 km
Discover the historic charm of Cannery Row in Monterey, California, with its vibrant shops, exquisite dining, and breathtaking ocean views.
InterContinental The Clement Monterey, an IHG Hotel
4.2 km
Experience coastal luxury at InterContinental The Clement Monterey, where stunning ocean views meet elegant accommodations on Cannery Row.
Sloat Monument
4.2 km
Explore the Sloat Monument in Monterey, a striking sculpture commemorating Commodore John D. Sloat and a pivotal moment in California's history.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Links at Spanish Bay
1.2 km
Experience world-class golf at The Links at Spanish Bay, where stunning coastal views meet expertly designed greens in Pebble Beach, California.
Restless Sea
1.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Restless Sea at Pebble Beach – a coastal gem where nature meets tranquility.
China Rock Vista Point
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere of China Rock Vista Point in Pebble Beach, California, a must-visit scenic spot for all travelers.
Asilomar State Beach
1.6 km
Explore the stunning Asilomar State Beach in Pacific Grove, California, where scenic beauty meets vibrant wildlife and outdoor adventure.
Bird Rock Vista Point
2.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Bird Rock Vista Point in Pebble Beach, where stunning ocean views and diverse wildlife await.
Seal Rock Creek Beach
2.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Seal Rock Creek Beach, a serene public beach along Pebble Beach's stunning coastline, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Poppy Hills Golf Course
2.4 km
Discover the stunning Poppy Hills Golf Course in Pebble Beach, where breathtaking landscapes meet world-class golfing and delightful dining experiences.
Spyglass Hill Golf Course
2.6 km
Experience world-class golfing at Spyglass Hill Golf Course, where stunning coastal views meet challenging play, creating an unforgettable adventure for all golfers.
Huckleberry Hill
2.6 km
Discover Huckleberry Hill, a tranquil nature preserve in Pebble Beach, California, where stunning vistas and diverse wildlife await every nature enthusiast.
Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary
2.8 km
Discover the stunning Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary in Pacific Grove, a natural haven showcasing thousands of migrating monarchs in a serene environment.
Fanshell Beach
3.2 km
Discover the breathtaking coastal beauty of Fanshell Beach in Pebble Beach, California, where dramatic seascapes and serene sands await.
Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
3.2 km
Explore the rich natural heritage of California at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History, where education meets conservation in a family-friendly setting.
Pacific Grove Butterfly House
3.3 km
Explore the Pacific Grove Butterfly House, a serene haven where vibrant butterflies dance and nature's beauty flourishes in California's coastal gem.
Ocean View Blvd
3.4 km
Explore the stunning coastal beauty of Ocean View Boulevard in Pacific Grove, California, where breathtaking ocean views meet serene seaside tranquility.
Point Pinos Lighthouse (1855)
3.5 km
Discover the historic Point Pinos Lighthouse in Pacific Grove, a stunning coastal attraction offering rich maritime history and breathtaking ocean views.
Essential places to dine
Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar
2.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar in Pacific Grove - where every bite feels like a trip to Italy.
The Bench
3.9 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine with stunning ocean views at The Bench in Pebble Beach.
El Cantaro
4.0 km
Discover El Cantaro: Where Vegan Meets Authentic Mexican Flavors in Monterey’s Vibrant Culinary Scene.
Hula's Island Grill
4.0 km
Discover the flavors of the tropics at Hula's Island Grill in Monterey – a culinary haven with island-inspired dishes and vibrant ambiance.
Mando's Restaurant
4.1 km
Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Mando's Restaurant in Monterey - where vibrant flavors meet welcoming ambiance.
Bistro Moulin
4.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Bistro Moulin in Monterey – where elegance meets flavor in a charming coastal setting.
The Sardine Factory
4.1 km
Experience fine seafood dining at The Sardine Factory in Monterey - where exquisite flavors meet stunning coastal views.
Whaling Station Steakhouse
4.1 km
Experience culinary mastery at Whaling Station Steakhouse in Monterey—where succulent steaks meet fresh seafood in an inviting atmosphere.
Sea Harvest Restaurant & Fish Market
4.1 km
Experience Monterey's finest seafood at Sea Harvest Restaurant & Fish Market - where fresh catches meet coastal charm.
Aquarium Cafe
4.2 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Aquarium Cafe on Cannery Row—perfect for families and ocean lovers seeking culinary bliss.
The C Restaurant + Bar
4.2 km
Experience exquisite coastal cuisine at The C Restaurant + Bar in Monterey - where stunning ocean views meet fine dining excellence.
Wave Street Cafe
4.2 km
Experience delicious breakfasts and brunches at Wave Street Cafe in Monterey, where every meal comes with stunning ocean views.
Sly McFly's
4.2 km
Experience vibrant dining at Sly McFly's in Monterey – where fresh seafood meets live music in a lively coastal setting.
Louie Linguini's
4.3 km
Experience fresh seafood delights blended with Italian flavors at Louie Linguini's on Cannery Row in beautiful Monterey.
Lalla Grill Oceanside
4.3 km
Discover culinary excellence at Lalla Grill Oceanside—where New American flavors meet breathtaking ocean views in Monterey.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
All-American Antiques
3.9 km
Explore a unique collection of antiques and collectibles at All-American Antiques in Monterey, where every item has a story to tell.
Cypress Boutique Monterey
3.9 km
Explore unique styles at Cypress Boutique Monterey, a fashionable haven featuring curated men's and women's clothing that captures coastal California charm.
Fashion Trade
4.1 km
Discover a curated selection of vintage clothing and accessories at Fashion Trade, Monterey's go-to destination for unique thrift finds.
Monterey General Store
4.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Monterey General Store, a charming gift shop in the heart of Monterey, California.
Kristonio's
4.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Kristonio's gift shop in Monterey - a must-visit for every tourist!
Mackerel Jack's Trading Co
4.2 km
Explore Mackerel Jack's Trading Co on Cannery Row for unique Monterey souvenirs and local artisan crafts that embody coastal California charm.
LOLA Monterey
4.2 km
Explore LOLA Monterey, a charming gift shop in Cannery Row, offering unique treasures that embody the spirit of local artistry and culture.
Gift and Book Store
4.2 km
Explore the Gift and Book Store at Monterey Bay Aquarium for unique ocean-themed souvenirs, educational resources, and a delightful shopping experience.
Sea Otter Shirts
4.2 km
Discover unique otter-themed gifts and apparel at Sea Otter Shirts in Monterey, a delightful shopping destination along Cannery Row.
Ocean Discovery Store
4.2 km
Explore the Ocean Discovery Store for unique ocean-themed gifts and souvenirs in the heart of Monterey's Cannery Row.
California Classics
4.2 km
Discover unique California fashion at California Classics, a trendy clothing store in Monterey's Cannery Row, perfect for stylish travelers.
Culturarts
4.2 km
Explore Culturarts in Monterey, CA for unique gifts and local artistry that captures the essence of coastal California.
Fine Art Turkish Grand Bazaar
4.2 km
Explore a vibrant collection of handcrafted Turkish art and gifts at the Fine Art Turkish Grand Bazaar in Monterey, a cultural treasure on Cannery Row.
Five & Dime General Store
4.2 km
Discover the nostalgic charm of Five & Dime General Store, a delightful variety store in Monterey with unique souvenirs and treats.
Enlightenment Zone
4.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Enlightenment Zone, the charming gift shop in Monterey's famous Cannery Row.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bulldog Sports Pub
4.0 km
Discover Bulldog Sports Pub, Monterey's vibrant sports bar offering delicious food and live sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
4.0 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge, where exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar
4.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance of The Salty Seal Brewpub and Sports Bar, where great food, craft beers, and sports come together in Monterey.
Pearl Hour
4.2 km
Experience the eclectic charm and unique cocktails at Pearl Hour, Monterey's hidden gem for nightlife enthusiasts.
Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
4.2 km
Experience the best of mixology at Bar Cart Cocktail Co. in Monterey, where every cocktail tells a story and the atmosphere is always vibrant.
Bargetto Winery Tasting Room
4.3 km
Discover the exquisite wines of Bargetto Winery Tasting Room in Monterey, a perfect blend of flavor and coastal charm.
The Wine Experience
4.3 km
Discover the finest wines and a cozy atmosphere at The Wine Experience in Monterey, where every sip tells a story.
Britannia Arms
4.5 km
Discover Britannia Arms, a lively pub in Monterey offering a delightful mix of traditional dishes and local flavors in a cozy atmosphere.
The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
4.6 km
Indulge in artisanal cocktails and a cozy ambiance at The Whisky Club, Monterey's premier destination for whisky lovers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant
4.6 km
Discover the Best of California Wines at Sovino Wine Bar & Merchant in Monterey – A Cozy Spot for Enthusiasts and Casual Drinkers Alike.
Compact Disco
4.6 km
Experience Monterey's nightlife at Compact Disco, where classic cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable evenings.
Alfredo's Cantina
4.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Alfredo's Cantina, Monterey's favorite cocktail bar with a lively atmosphere and exquisite drinks.
Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot
4.8 km
Discover craft beer in a historic train station at Dust Bowl Brewing Co. Tap Depot, a lively brewpub in beautiful Monterey, California.
London Bridge Pub
4.9 km
Discover the delightful mix of British tradition and Californian flavor at London Bridge Pub in Monterey.
LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill at Hotel 1110
5.7 km
Discover the enchanting LindaRose Rooftop Bar & Grill, where mouthwatering cuisine meets stunning views in the heart of Monterey.