Last summer, we travelled the length of the Pacific Coast Highway from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Today I wanted to share with you some pictures from the famous 17 Mile Drive in Monterey.
17 Mile Drive
Veering off the Route 1 Pacific Coast Highway, we headed to the Monterey Peninsula to take in the magnificent views of the 17 Mile Drive. Aptly named, this 17 mile scenic route takes in beautiful beaches, golf courses and super expensive houses. It’s the perfect place to hire a convertible and live the road trip dream. As we were on a huge trip, we had a big SUV… we called him Trevor!
Words don’t really do the 17 Mile Drive justice. The vast majority of the Pacific Coast Highway is breathtaking but if you need to dip in and out of the route, this short 17 mile tour is a perfect way to soak up that Monterey / Big Sur / Carmel atmosphere. We were dealing with some of that infamous Bay area fog on our trip but you can still see the beauty.
Hitting the toll road from the North, you are given a route map with all the most significant view points on such as The Lone Cypress, Fanshell Overlook, Spanish Bay and Point Joe. The Lone Cypress is often ranked as one of the most famous trees in the world (Really?!) and Fanshell Overlook is home to the cutest Harbor Seals.
Cute Harbor Seals
The Lone Cypress
There is plenty of parking and picnic areas along the route. If you do give up on the map, you can guarantee a good view if you stop whenever you see other cars! Amenities along the way are limited but there are toilets dotted here and there as well as full facilities at the Pebble Beach Resort.
We spent an enjoyable morning driving through downtown Monterey. It is as cute and picturesque as any small town American seaside place you’ll have seen on TV.
Wow that looks amazing, fab pics! We went to San Francisco a few years back and this year we are heading to LA (staying in Marina del Rey) for 4 nights before driving to Vegas. Already planning a 2018 trip which will take in more of SoCal.
Author
As you’ll have a car, make a point of visiting Death Valley, it’s beyond words!
Is that en-route to Vegas Katie?
You’ve brought back some memories for me! We did this route 13 years ago! I can hardly believe it’s that long ago. We spent almost a month touring — me, my husband and our two sons and it was one of the best trips we’ve ever had. Loved every stop off along that highway including Monterey. One of our favourite places was further south — Laguna Beach. I’ve been to San Fran twice since — love everything about California.
Author
I feel more comfortable on the West Coast despite family being from the East Coast. The whole California vibe is just so appealing and suckers you in. Once you’ve been, there’s no stopping you is there!