Fanshell Beach: A Coastal Gem
Discover dramatic seascapes and abundant wildlife at Fanshell Beach on Pebble Beach's scenic 17-Mile Drive, a coastal paradise offering stunning views and tranquil moments.
Fanshell Beach, nestled along the famed 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, is a captivating coastal haven renowned for its dramatic seascapes and unique north-facing orientation. Unlike many California beaches, Fanshell offers a rocky shoreline interspersed with small pockets of sand, creating a haven for diverse marine life. The Fanshell Overlook provides panoramic views, especially stunning at sunset, while the beach itself is a prime location for birdwatching and wildlife spotting, particularly harbor seals. During the spring, the beach becomes a protected pupping habitat, offering a rare glimpse into the natural world. While swimming isn't recommended due to strong currents, Fanshell's rugged beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a must-see destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. The interplay of crashing waves, distant views of Cypress Point, and the abundant wildlife create an unforgettable experience within the exclusive Pebble Beach community. Remember to check the closure dates during pupping season!
A brief summary to Fanshell Beach
- 3141 17 Mile Dr, Pebble Beach, Pebble Beach, California, 93953, US
- Visit website
- Monday 7 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
- Thursday 7 am-7 pm
- Friday 7 am-7 pm
- Saturday 7 am-7 pm
- Sunday 7 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during low tide to explore the tide pools and discover fascinating marine life.
- Check the dates! Fanshell Beach is closed to human access from April to June to protect harbor seal pupping season; however, the overlook remains open.
- Bring binoculars for optimal birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Arrive early or late in the day to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photography.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing meal while taking in the stunning coastal views from the overlook.
Getting There
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Driving
Fanshell Beach is located along the 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach. From Highway 1, take the Pebble Beach/Pacific Grove exit. Follow signs for 17-Mile Drive. There is a $12.25 fee per vehicle to enter 17-Mile Drive. This fee is reimbursed with a purchase of $35 or more at Pebble Beach Resorts restaurants (excluding Pebble Beach Market). Once inside 17-Mile Drive, follow the red-dotted line on the map provided at the entrance gate to Fanshell Beach, which is stop #9. There is a parking lot at Fanshell Overlook, adjacent to the beach. Parking can be limited during peak season. Note that motorcycles are prohibited on 17-Mile Drive.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From anywhere within Pebble Beach or nearby Monterey and Carmel, a taxi or ride-share service can provide direct transport to Fanshell Beach. Inform the driver that Fanshell Beach is located on 17-Mile Drive. Note that the $12.25 entrance fee per vehicle still applies and will likely be added to your fare. The estimated cost for a taxi or ride-share from The Lodge at Pebble Beach to Fanshell Beach is $15-$25, depending on demand and specific location.
Discover more about Fanshell Beach
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tally Ho Inn
4.9 km
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First Murphy House
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Tradewinds Carmel
5.0 km
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The court of the Golden bourgh
5.0 km
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Carmel Green Lantern Inn
5.0 km
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Carmel Bay Company
5.0 km
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La Playa Hotel
5.0 km
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Carmel Classics
5.1 km
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Carmel's Hidden Gem Restaurant
5.1 km
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Cypress Inn
5.1 km
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Doud Arcade
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Carmel
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WWI Memorial Bell Tower
5.2 km
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Carmel Color House
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Carmel Jewelry Studio-Richard
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cypress Point Club
0.5 km
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The Crocker Cypress Grove
0.6 km
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Seal Rock Creek Beach
0.9 km
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Spyglass Hill Golf Course
0.9 km
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Bird Rock Vista Point
1.1 km
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Cypress Point Lookout
1.4 km
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Lone Cypress
1.4 km
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Pebble Beach
2.1 km
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Pebble Beach Golf Links
2.2 km
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Pescadero Point
2.6 km
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Poppy Hills Golf Course
2.7 km
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China Rock Vista Point
2.7 km
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17 Mile Dr
3.2 km
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Restless Sea
3.3 km
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Huckleberry Hill
4.1 km
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Essential places to dine
The Bench
2.2 km
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Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar
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The Pocket
5.0 km
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Brophy's Tavern
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Il Fornaio Carmel
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Chez Noir
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Cultura Comida y Bebida
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Portabella
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Il Tegamino
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Catch
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L'Escargot
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The Little Swiss Café
5.0 km
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Aubergine the restaurant at L'Auberge Carmel
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Foray
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Dametra Cafe
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Collection
5.0 km
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Belle Cose | South Ocean
5.0 km
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elizabethW Carmel
5.0 km
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Ritzy Ragz & Thingz
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Glacier Boutique
5.0 km
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Jane Austen At Home
5.0 km
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Jolie Carmel by the Sea
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Carmel Music Box Co
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Old World Antiques
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Belle Cose | North Ocean
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Forget-Me-Nots
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Johnny Was
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Fleur'ever Boutique
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Angelina Boutique
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Cage
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Bud's at La Playa
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Sade's Cocktails
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Galante Vineyards Tasting Room
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Mulligan Public House
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Bar Napoli
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Barmel
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Wrath Wines- Carmel Tasting Room
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Britannia Arms
6.8 km
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Bulldog Sports Pub
6.9 km
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The Whisky Club (TWC) Monterey
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Alfredo's Cantina
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Segovia's Cocktail Bar & Lounge
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Compact Disco
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Pearl Hour
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Bar Cart Cocktail Co.
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Terrace Lounge
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Preez69Studio
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Monterey Civic Club
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Old Capital Club
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Indian summer
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Pacheco Club
7.0 km
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Paper Wing Theatre & Supper Club
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Big Sur Taphouse
42.3 km
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Court's Lounge
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The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
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Khartoum Lounge
78.3 km
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Tessora's Barra di Vino
78.4 km
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Cardiff & Cocktails
78.4 km
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The Vesper
78.4 km
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Katie Bloom's
78.4 km
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