Pebble Beach is a stunning part of Monterey County, which is home to 17-Mile Drive. This road is one of the most scenic drives in California with sweeping views of the coast, beautiful cypress trees, and many points of interest to take in along the way. This week, we look at this stretch of road and highlight some of the stops.
Enter into 17-Mile Drive
Admission into 17-Mile Drive is $11.25 per vehicle. You can enter through any of their five gates including access points in Pacific Grove and Carmel. No matter which way you enter, you'll still be able to see all that Pebble Beach as at offer. Attractions are numbered with signs so keep an eye out for them as you drive through.
Spanish Bay Beach
A fun fact that connects us to this beach is that Gaspar de Portola, the Spanish explorer that is the Portola Hotel & Spa's namesake, camped here with his crew in 1769 while searching for Monterey Bay. Spanish Bay Beach is an idyllic beach that connects to Asilomar State Beach in Pacific Grove to the north and Moss Beach to the south. Its pristine shoreline is the perfect backdrop for a picnic, and is a wonderful place to take a long stroll at sunset.
The Restless Sea
Make sure you stop and to watch the choppy, crashing waves at The Restless Sea. This stop is a mesmerizing point of interest, especially on windy days.
Bird Rock and Seal Rock
Both points of interest are great spots to see marine and bird life. Witness harbor seals, sea lions, and many shorebirds at these landmarks.
Spyglass Hill Golf Course
If golf is one of your passions, make sure you save time to stop at one of Pebble Beach's golf courses. Spyglass Hill is open to the public and is known for its challenging course. With stunning views of the course back dropped by the ocean and forest, it's truly a beautiful course to experience if you're in the area.
Ghost Trees at Pescadero Point
The sun-bleached Monterey cypress trees at Pescadero point are eerie and spooky. With no foliage, their limbs and trunks create an ominous silhouette. This spot is also known to have some of the most dangerous waves in the world. With strong currents, bullwhip kelp, underwater rock pillars, and white sharks, it's no wonder how it won this title.
The Lone Cypress
Claiming the Pebble Beach Company logo, this iconic tree has endured more than 250 years on its cliff overlooking the ocean. Believed to be one of the most photographed trees in North America, it's definitely worth making the stop. Admire the Lone Cypress and the surrounding landscape at this famous point of interest.
Plan your visit to 17-Mile Drive
There are many other stops along 17-Mile Drive, so be sure to check them out in person when you visit. The closest gate to Pebble Beach is only a 10-minute drive from the Portola Hotel & Spa, giving you nearby access to this beautiful attraction. Bring your camera and take in the beautiful vistas on your next visit. Call us at 888-222-5851 or visit us online to book your stay at the Portola Hotel & Spa!