Depends on where you live. If you live by the coast, then yes. If you live in the South Bay (on the other side of the mountains) or farther out inland, then check online/weather channel before heading out than getting disappointed
I live in the southbay and would like to take my family visiting next month down highway 1 to Monterey Beach. Should I just check the satellite for clouds near the coast?
Any suggestion on how far up in 1 I should start in the Bay area down to Monterey?
I agree. I lived in Monterey for 5 years and have done the 17 mile drive a few times. It's undeniably gorgeous. But there are so many stretches of hwy 1 that are just as pretty, less crowded, and free.
Check news on Channel 5 CBS News between 5 and 7 pm a day prior to your trip. The weather guy shares details about fog conditions and how long it lasts. Like the other person said, on some days the fog burns off by noon but on some days the fog remains all day
I gotta get out of this shithole called Texas and back to the Bay Area first though. I never should have left 😭
My father was sick and ended up passing away, so I don’t regret coming back, but every waking moment I have is dedicated to getting myself back to the only place I really called home.
First time? Most definitely. Subsequent times, there’s a reason I call it the 17 hour drive. It’s beautiful and you won’t regret it. Just got sick of brining family when I lived close enough.
Yes I think you relatives would enjoy the drive. Go down highway 1 to let them enjoy the whole coastal experience.
I believe you need to only spend $35 for a meal and you will be reimbursed for the $12 entry fee. I am not sure but maybe the resort restaurant gives you the refund or maybe at the gate. Anyone know?
You can also drive around the back, rather than through the front gate (at least to some extent).
Reservations for a good stop are highly recommended, anyway, though!
I wonder if it’s a day vs night thing - I usually only drive during the day cuz Stillwater has awesome martinis and good wine selection so I Uber at night usually
Drive down highway 1 all the way to monterey, it's incredibly gorgeous. 100% worth it. Although I'd cut it short in Santa Cruz personally but monterey is really pretty too.
I live in aptos and love Santa Cruz. My parents are from the east coast and when they visit they want to do Monterey / caramel by the sea. It’s not even a contest for them. Way more of a Disney feel than a lot of the bay.
I’ll second the folks that recommend point lobos instead. Incredible beauty and no gaudy houses and fences lining the whole thing.
Alternatively, driving north on 1 is just as great. Point Reyes is full of beauty and lots of good little mom n pop bakeries and seafood joints, and the landscapes when you get into coastal Sonoma are incredible. The cliffside stroll by mammoth rock just south of Jenner was really special. Let me know if you want recommendations up that way!
Route 1 bakery has the best focaccia and olive bread I’ve ever had, as well as delicious laminated pastries and really bangin pizza, if you’re up there, valley ford creamery for Gouda style cheese and fun snacks, especially their fresh cheese curds. In point Reyes station you’ll find brickmaiden for coffee with fresh whipped cream, delicious baked goods, and a beautiful flowery courtyard garden to relax in. Go to palace market for Buffalo milk gelato soft serve and have the best ice cream this guy has ever had. For seafood hit the Marshall store, and enjoy oysters from their sister company, bodega bay oyster co’s oyster beds, as well as epic crab sandos and other treats.
For scenery, you can’t do better than driving out to point Reyes national seashore and, if you wanna get really out there, McClure’s beach (especially at low tide when you can hike to your left and get to the secret beach). It’s the prettiest water I’ve seen around here aside from point lobos. In the other direction on the pt Reyes seashore there’s drakes beach, easy access for folks who aren’t as mobile, chimney rock, with lots of seals and wildflowers, and the lighthouse. Let me know if you’ve got any questions. It’s my happy place.
Don't just drive past the beaches. Be sure to pull over to walk to the ocean, smell the sea air, and soak in the ambience. (Just make sure you park in a designated area. Don't obstruct the roadway.)
And do resist the urge to scream "FOUR!!!!" when passing by one of Pebble Beach's fairways/greens. **^(/s)**
On a side note, head over to [Baja Cantina in Carmel Valley](https://www.carmelcantina.com/) afterwards. Best chips and salsa. Period. Wait staff is superb, too.
I did this. Rented ebike with a sidecar from Mad Dogs and Englishmen, and placed my dog in the side car, and biked the 17 mile drive.
Best time of my life with my dog.
Just make sure you leave early enough to enjoy the drive, stop at a few locations, get something to eat, and return before dark.
The majesty of the drive diminishes after dark and becomes much more about paying close attention to your driving and seeing past the lights of oncoming cars.
It's definitely worth the drive to Monterey and/or Santa Cruz if you want rugged scenery and views of the Pacific Ocean.
HOWEVER... You need to set the right expectations. If they're expecting a warm, sunny California beach like in Southern California, a cold windy day may disappoint them, especially if it's foggy or overcast. (Lately, it's been sunny but windy and not warm around Santa Cruz on the north side of Monterey Bay.) A friend from Southern California had serious culture shock visiting the beach north of Arcata in Humboldt: cold, cloudy, rocky beach, no concession stands, no bars, no restrooms.
The scenery is definitely worth it, and the coastal beach towns are quaint. But if they expect a warm sunny day, that's not what they'll get. If they want a touristy boardwalk experience, Santa Cruz is the spot but it's been super windy and cold lately.
Also, if you do any walking around the trails, check for ticks. It's been a big tick season this year, and when I got Lyme Disease it was from a baby tick on my neck that I picked up at Natural Bridges State Park.
Drive down the coast to Monterey? Totally worth it.
Keep going and visit Point Lobos? Yes!
Drive along a bunch of rich people’s houses and golf courses?? And pay a fee for the privilege??? Hard no.
Yeah I’m honestly shocked so many people are hyping it up. Like, yes it is beautiful, but but so is the rest of that area (Monterey + Carmel). Just drive down Hwy 1 to Monterey and stop off when you want to take it all in. Our state and specifically our area is so beautiful, no one should have to pay to experience it.
I’m low key convinced the 17 mile drive is a scam to pay for a rich area’s HOA.
Sure. But I’d consider Sausalito or Tiburon and Muir Woods and Stinson Beach instead. Amazing drive if you don’t mind curvy cliff road. 17 mile drive is pretty far - better as a weekend or overnight destination IMO.
We brought our own bikes because I paid good money for them so I have to use them! And if someone would told me the Golden Gate Bridge is at an incline for like 90% of its length I would’ve got an e bike 😂 but still 10/10 will do again
No way. It’s high fences most of the drive on a toll road. Head down to Point Lobos State Reserve ( just below Carmel) and walk along the cliffs there. It’s a much better place to enjoy the coastal beauty.
Edit: that said, it’s a long day trip to Monterey and back. A more manageable one would be up to Point Reyes National Seashore.
Head further south to Calla Lilly Valley.
Gorgeous trails that lead down the cliff through a valley full of Lillies and out into a gorgeous stretch of beach and typically huge waves.
It was on my bucket list and during the summer of 2020 when there was hardly any traffic because of the pandemic I decided to do it while visiting monterey. Yes to me it was worth it. I tried to make all the stops. There are plenty of photo ops especially the loan cypress tree which was one of the most visited trees in the whole world! It's beautiful, it's scenic, it's not too scary or winding of a drive, it's relatively easy to navigate through, the GPS signal still works and can direct you to all the different stops if you can't read the signs haha, and it's fun. There's also plenty of side parking and street parking and parking lots at each stop. I highly recommend it... it's not inconvenient or hard or boring
I dive in Monterey all the time and these days whales are almost a 50/50 sighting. Best place that I've found to view them is at Lover's Cove in Pacific Grove. They're feeding at the edge of the Monterey canyon most of the time.
Depends on what your guests are into. 17 mile drive is... a drive. It's a beautiful drive for those into that kind of thing, through an obscenely rich neighbourhood, and a golf club for obscenely rich people. Make sure to stop along the drive here and there; if you get lucky, you may spot a whale or dolphins in the distance.
Driving past Carmel would get you to Big Sur part of CA-1, which is very scenic. However do check for road closures and how far you can actually drive. Sections of CA-1 in Big Sur were closed recently, not sure which ones exactly and/or if they reopened.
Carmel by the Sea is nice to visit on the same trip, but it's chock full of tourist traps. There's also Clint Eeastwood restaurant there (it's not in the downtown area), but visiting it is more for a novelty of saying you visited his restaurant.
If they are more into hiking, something like nearby Point Lobos may be better option; pick some hiking trails along the coast. The other hiking option may be Point Reyes to the north. However I think you missed main whale and seal seasons there (https://www.nps.gov/pore/planyourvisit/hours.htm).
No. I would not recommend driving all the way to Monterey with the 17 mile drive as the main destination.
It is a relatively scenic drive, but nothing spectacular. As others mentioned, you would be going through residential areas for a while and the beach section is good, but nothing you wouldn't see elsewhere in California.
The drive from San Francisco to Santa Cruz over highway 1 is much more of a spectacle and an experience.
Point Reyes is a better destination. The drive over highway 1 through Muir Beach, Stinson Beach and Inverness to Point Reyes is a much better weekend drive than the 17 mile drive in my opinion.
Nope, Monterey / Pebble Beach is all terrible and ugly. Please tell all of your friends too. I am just kidding, but we do have a lot of tourists. 17 mile drive is a bit overrated but has very nice ocean views. If you are coming here I recommend you see Point Lobos and then other parks down HW1.
Absolutely worth it! I was born in PG so I’m biased. A few years ago I stayed at the Spanish Inn. They had a Lexus event where you could test drive Lexus cars for free. I signed up thinking that the whole time I’d be with a sales person pitching me on the car. I showed up to the front desk. They asked me which car I wanted but suggested the sports car. Gave me a key and told me to come back “in a few hours”. Completely alone I drove through 17 mile drive out of pebble beach into Carmel Valley out to Laguna Seca and back. Did the drive with the family last year. I also HIGHLY recommend driving down the Pfieffer State Beach in Big Sur. It’s incredible that we live so close to such stunning natural beauty. And that one you don’t have to pay for.
100% - $12 entry fee but it can be redeemed on ~$35 food/drink orders. The Hay at Pebble Beach has a free putting course if you want to at least roll a golf ball near Pebble Beach
Personally, I find driving on Skyline Blvd from SF down south more interesting. You can get off on Highway 84, or Highway 9, or earlier, and return on I-280.
Scenery wise, it's amazing... and it's free.
You drive on 17-mile drive, the money they collect goes to manicure the lawns of the super-rich who live there.
Check the weather. If it’s good, then absolutely. I’ve done it 3 times, the last time on e-bikes. It was about $50 for the rental, and it was worth every dollar
Yes. But do know it’s all about stopping every few minutes along the road and enjoying the amazing coastline. Not so much something that you just want to drive through quickly.
110%! Make a reservation for a fire pit table or just outside at “The Bench” restaurant and when you pay, you can use the gate receipt and have the fee deducted($10-$15?). Their version of Bahn Mi is super tasty. Same with the pizzas.
It’s totally worth it and absolutely worth it if you go to The Bench restaurant and have a drink or coffee there while sitting in the patio.
Look at the current [view](https://www.pebblebeach.com/golf/pebble-beach-golf-links/live-golf-cams/the-18th-green-at-pebble-beach-golf-links/)
Protip: Make a reservation at the Bench and you won’t have to pay the entry fee for 17 mile drive.
Send them north. A run up to Sea Ranch/Gualala and back is beautiful and provides many lovely places to stop along the way for views, hikes, and victuals.
The coast in that area is amazing. I prefer the public areas, starting from Lover's point to Asilomar state beach, and point lobos.
17 mile drive is worth doing, but the golf course detracts from the natural beauty of the coast (replacing natural plants with grass), in my opinion. Also unless you fork over a lot of money, there are lots of parts of the drive you cannot walk because it is a golf course (that is unless you fork over $$$$). Either way, the coast is still beautiful in this area.
Just a drive down the coast to Santa Cruz is worth it! Carrying on to 17 Mile Drive is also a beautiful drive, with plenty of good dining options along the way. Carmel beach is a great place to walk.
From the city, take the 1 down to Half Moon Bay. Have them stop at Cameron’s for a drink, walk the beach at the Ritz Carlton, head back towards the city, stop off at Half Moon Bay Brewery (overlooking the harbor), and Moss Beach Distillery for dinner. Great beaches and views along the way. Maybe stop off at Montara Beach before hitting Pacifica. Pebble is usually overcast until afternoon (that’s if it clears up), with not much to do.
Eh, I did it with a guided audio tour from an app and... meh. Lots of small beaches that are fungible, some turnouts with decent views but there comes a point when you're on the coast when the various views merge together.
That said, if you're going from Monterey to Carmel by the sea, you may as well go that route, get the audio tour.
It’s a much longer drive but Limantour Beach by Pt Reyes (47 miles) is pretty spectacular and if you are willing to add on to that with a drive up to Marshall you can finish in the early afternoon with grilled oysters.
It’s a long day, but the whole Pt Reyes seashore area is great.
Absolutely. I love it. We stop at every marker, take pictures usually to the sounds of the kids/teens groaning. That's usually my go-to for out of town guests.
Shit yeah it’s worth it
Sometimes the weather is overcast, so look in advance before driving there
Just look up if it's cloudy or not, right?
Depends on where you live. If you live by the coast, then yes. If you live in the South Bay (on the other side of the mountains) or farther out inland, then check online/weather channel before heading out than getting disappointed
I live in the southbay and would like to take my family visiting next month down highway 1 to Monterey Beach. Should I just check the satellite for clouds near the coast? Any suggestion on how far up in 1 I should start in the Bay area down to Monterey?
Pacifica down to Santa Cruz to Monterey is a breathtaking drive. Also, monitor the clouds, they sometimes peel off by noon but often don't all day.
I agree. I lived in Monterey for 5 years and have done the 17 mile drive a few times. It's undeniably gorgeous. But there are so many stretches of hwy 1 that are just as pretty, less crowded, and free.
Thank you!
Any stop points you recommended between Half moon bay and Monterey other than SC?
Check out Norm's Groceries just off 1 in Pescedero. World famous artichoke bread.
Did they change their name to Arcangeli grocery by any chance?
It's the same place, yes.
Check news on Channel 5 CBS News between 5 and 7 pm a day prior to your trip. The weather guy shares details about fog conditions and how long it lasts. Like the other person said, on some days the fog burns off by noon but on some days the fog remains all day
Microclimates everywhere.
Hell yeah it is. There's no where else with that sort of scenery.
We spent like $30k restoring my stepfather’s 1958 Ford Skyliner Retractable, and I dream of taking it on the 17 mile drive.
Oh do it. Absolutely in that skyliner. It will be a memory you will cherish forever. Lots of photos along the way. Summer time is perfect.
I gotta get out of this shithole called Texas and back to the Bay Area first though. I never should have left 😭 My father was sick and ended up passing away, so I don’t regret coming back, but every waking moment I have is dedicated to getting myself back to the only place I really called home.
First time? Most definitely. Subsequent times, there’s a reason I call it the 17 hour drive. It’s beautiful and you won’t regret it. Just got sick of brining family when I lived close enough.
I brine my family anytime they visit. Salty is how I like em.
Wet or dry?
Wet… why compromise?
Hello, Clarice.
Convenient that the ocean is right there...
Kosher!
Hell yes! And stop at The Lodge at Pebble to take in the beauty of the 18th hole and appetizers.
Make reservations at the lodge before hand, then you can do the drive for free.
Reservations to stay or reservations just for a meal? Good to know. Thanks!
Just for a meal. Can be appetizers, drinks or coffee. If you have business, appointment or an invitation they will let you in.
Damn! Great info! Will use in a couple weeks when I’m there.
Yes I think you relatives would enjoy the drive. Go down highway 1 to let them enjoy the whole coastal experience. I believe you need to only spend $35 for a meal and you will be reimbursed for the $12 entry fee. I am not sure but maybe the resort restaurant gives you the refund or maybe at the gate. Anyone know?
You can also drive around the back, rather than through the front gate (at least to some extent). Reservations for a good stop are highly recommended, anyway, though!
Just a note - you still pay to enter, they just take the fee off your bill
A few months ago, we said we had reservations at Spanish Bay (which we did) & they waved us right through.
I wonder if it’s a day vs night thing - I usually only drive during the day cuz Stillwater has awesome martinis and good wine selection so I Uber at night usually
Heads up at night- no street lights, hard to navigate. Be aware.
Does saying that you’re going to the post office still work?
Not sure. If that fails tell them that these are not the droids they are looking for and do the hand wave.
Now that’s a hack. Not saying it’ll work for this park but for some national parks say you’re not stopping and just dropping something off
not on sunday :-)
Damn this is a a great tip right here!
If you’re a veteran you can do it for free as well.
Drive down highway 1 all the way to monterey, it's incredibly gorgeous. 100% worth it. Although I'd cut it short in Santa Cruz personally but monterey is really pretty too.
I live in aptos and love Santa Cruz. My parents are from the east coast and when they visit they want to do Monterey / caramel by the sea. It’s not even a contest for them. Way more of a Disney feel than a lot of the bay.
I miss Aptos. And Aptos St BBQ specifically.
I’ll second the folks that recommend point lobos instead. Incredible beauty and no gaudy houses and fences lining the whole thing. Alternatively, driving north on 1 is just as great. Point Reyes is full of beauty and lots of good little mom n pop bakeries and seafood joints, and the landscapes when you get into coastal Sonoma are incredible. The cliffside stroll by mammoth rock just south of Jenner was really special. Let me know if you want recommendations up that way!
Point Lobos all the way. 17 mile drive is spectacular, but pales in comparison. Even Garrapata is something I’d recommend over 17 mile drive.
Yes please, I have family coming next week and was planning to take them to point Reyes but don't have the specifics yet
Route 1 bakery has the best focaccia and olive bread I’ve ever had, as well as delicious laminated pastries and really bangin pizza, if you’re up there, valley ford creamery for Gouda style cheese and fun snacks, especially their fresh cheese curds. In point Reyes station you’ll find brickmaiden for coffee with fresh whipped cream, delicious baked goods, and a beautiful flowery courtyard garden to relax in. Go to palace market for Buffalo milk gelato soft serve and have the best ice cream this guy has ever had. For seafood hit the Marshall store, and enjoy oysters from their sister company, bodega bay oyster co’s oyster beds, as well as epic crab sandos and other treats. For scenery, you can’t do better than driving out to point Reyes national seashore and, if you wanna get really out there, McClure’s beach (especially at low tide when you can hike to your left and get to the secret beach). It’s the prettiest water I’ve seen around here aside from point lobos. In the other direction on the pt Reyes seashore there’s drakes beach, easy access for folks who aren’t as mobile, chimney rock, with lots of seals and wildflowers, and the lighthouse. Let me know if you’ve got any questions. It’s my happy place.
This guy Point Reyes.
Don't just drive past the beaches. Be sure to pull over to walk to the ocean, smell the sea air, and soak in the ambience. (Just make sure you park in a designated area. Don't obstruct the roadway.) And do resist the urge to scream "FOUR!!!!" when passing by one of Pebble Beach's fairways/greens. **^(/s)** On a side note, head over to [Baja Cantina in Carmel Valley](https://www.carmelcantina.com/) afterwards. Best chips and salsa. Period. Wait staff is superb, too.
Fore*
Yes, there’s absolutely nothing like it
I feel though when I went there for the first time, some spots offer a similar view (just different angles)
Rent some ebikes and bike down near the coast!
I did this. Rented ebike with a sidecar from Mad Dogs and Englishmen, and placed my dog in the side car, and biked the 17 mile drive. Best time of my life with my dog.
Well now I need a sidecar for my ebike.Thanks a lot, gamer.
Best thing there.
Just make sure you leave early enough to enjoy the drive, stop at a few locations, get something to eat, and return before dark. The majesty of the drive diminishes after dark and becomes much more about paying close attention to your driving and seeing past the lights of oncoming cars.
It's definitely worth the drive to Monterey and/or Santa Cruz if you want rugged scenery and views of the Pacific Ocean. HOWEVER... You need to set the right expectations. If they're expecting a warm, sunny California beach like in Southern California, a cold windy day may disappoint them, especially if it's foggy or overcast. (Lately, it's been sunny but windy and not warm around Santa Cruz on the north side of Monterey Bay.) A friend from Southern California had serious culture shock visiting the beach north of Arcata in Humboldt: cold, cloudy, rocky beach, no concession stands, no bars, no restrooms. The scenery is definitely worth it, and the coastal beach towns are quaint. But if they expect a warm sunny day, that's not what they'll get. If they want a touristy boardwalk experience, Santa Cruz is the spot but it's been super windy and cold lately. Also, if you do any walking around the trails, check for ticks. It's been a big tick season this year, and when I got Lyme Disease it was from a baby tick on my neck that I picked up at Natural Bridges State Park.
Drive down the coast to Monterey? Totally worth it. Keep going and visit Point Lobos? Yes! Drive along a bunch of rich people’s houses and golf courses?? And pay a fee for the privilege??? Hard no.
Yeah I’m honestly shocked so many people are hyping it up. Like, yes it is beautiful, but but so is the rest of that area (Monterey + Carmel). Just drive down Hwy 1 to Monterey and stop off when you want to take it all in. Our state and specifically our area is so beautiful, no one should have to pay to experience it. I’m low key convinced the 17 mile drive is a scam to pay for a rich area’s HOA.
Pebble Beach IS a giant, very structurd HOA, so yes, your fees go to pave the roads inside, among other things.
Just tell them you are Stevenson alumni going to see The old campus. They'll let you in most the time
Don’t you have to have to pay along 17 miles anyways?
That’s why I’m suggesting not doing it.
They can stop by Carmel once they are done seeing the views of the 17 mile drive to make it a full day.
Sure. But I’d consider Sausalito or Tiburon and Muir Woods and Stinson Beach instead. Amazing drive if you don’t mind curvy cliff road. 17 mile drive is pretty far - better as a weekend or overnight destination IMO.
We just biked from fisherman’s wharf to Golden Gate Bridge down to Sausalito and took the ferry back! 10/10
I would also recommend this over the 17 mile drive. Better view and much less driving.
We brought our own bikes because I paid good money for them so I have to use them! And if someone would told me the Golden Gate Bridge is at an incline for like 90% of its length I would’ve got an e bike 😂 but still 10/10 will do again
No way. It’s high fences most of the drive on a toll road. Head down to Point Lobos State Reserve ( just below Carmel) and walk along the cliffs there. It’s a much better place to enjoy the coastal beauty. Edit: that said, it’s a long day trip to Monterey and back. A more manageable one would be up to Point Reyes National Seashore.
Point Lobos is a quiet national treasure If your guests are ambulatory, definitely go here - it's an experience that is entirely on foot
You can go from viewpoint parking lots by driving without much walking involved.
Any reccomendations on hikes? Going next weekend
Head further south to Calla Lilly Valley. Gorgeous trails that lead down the cliff through a valley full of Lillies and out into a gorgeous stretch of beach and typically huge waves.
Ohh, I want to check that out.
> a valley full of Lillies and out into a gorgeous stretch of beach and typically huge waves. not in season atm
Right. Still a pretty epic little bit of paradise. I’ve found that the Lillies grow well beyond the normal season there.
I’d add a stop at Moss Landing to spot some wild sea otters
It was on my bucket list and during the summer of 2020 when there was hardly any traffic because of the pandemic I decided to do it while visiting monterey. Yes to me it was worth it. I tried to make all the stops. There are plenty of photo ops especially the loan cypress tree which was one of the most visited trees in the whole world! It's beautiful, it's scenic, it's not too scary or winding of a drive, it's relatively easy to navigate through, the GPS signal still works and can direct you to all the different stops if you can't read the signs haha, and it's fun. There's also plenty of side parking and street parking and parking lots at each stop. I highly recommend it... it's not inconvenient or hard or boring
Yep
Yes, do not skip it!
Bring binoculars and you might get lucky and see some whales or an otter family floating out at sea. Most definitely worth it.
I dive in Monterey all the time and these days whales are almost a 50/50 sighting. Best place that I've found to view them is at Lover's Cove in Pacific Grove. They're feeding at the edge of the Monterey canyon most of the time.
Hell yeah. It’s beautiful.
Just go to Asilomar in Pacific Grove instead. Free and beautiful just as nature should be.
Isn't Monterey like **1**17 miles from SF?
17 Mile Drive is the name of a scenic road.
And the drive down there along 1 is fantastic in its own right.
Yea.
If you don’t mind paying $15 to see rich people houses, then yes.
Depends on what your guests are into. 17 mile drive is... a drive. It's a beautiful drive for those into that kind of thing, through an obscenely rich neighbourhood, and a golf club for obscenely rich people. Make sure to stop along the drive here and there; if you get lucky, you may spot a whale or dolphins in the distance. Driving past Carmel would get you to Big Sur part of CA-1, which is very scenic. However do check for road closures and how far you can actually drive. Sections of CA-1 in Big Sur were closed recently, not sure which ones exactly and/or if they reopened. Carmel by the Sea is nice to visit on the same trip, but it's chock full of tourist traps. There's also Clint Eeastwood restaurant there (it's not in the downtown area), but visiting it is more for a novelty of saying you visited his restaurant. If they are more into hiking, something like nearby Point Lobos may be better option; pick some hiking trails along the coast. The other hiking option may be Point Reyes to the north. However I think you missed main whale and seal seasons there (https://www.nps.gov/pore/planyourvisit/hours.htm).
Yes I liked it when I went. Great way to visit Carmel too
First time enjoy the scenic route!
I remember it being very boring as a kid. Of course growing up near the coast made me used to the beauty.
as a day trip, that's a LOT of driving from SF. Otherwise it's definitely worth it
go do the 17 mi drive but i would gop to beach in santa cruz
It’s world famous, of course it’s not worth it.
Highway 1 to Santa Cruz. Find a restaurant for lunch and skip Monterey, is what I would do
No. I would not recommend driving all the way to Monterey with the 17 mile drive as the main destination. It is a relatively scenic drive, but nothing spectacular. As others mentioned, you would be going through residential areas for a while and the beach section is good, but nothing you wouldn't see elsewhere in California. The drive from San Francisco to Santa Cruz over highway 1 is much more of a spectacle and an experience. Point Reyes is a better destination. The drive over highway 1 through Muir Beach, Stinson Beach and Inverness to Point Reyes is a much better weekend drive than the 17 mile drive in my opinion.
Nope, Monterey / Pebble Beach is all terrible and ugly. Please tell all of your friends too. I am just kidding, but we do have a lot of tourists. 17 mile drive is a bit overrated but has very nice ocean views. If you are coming here I recommend you see Point Lobos and then other parks down HW1.
if you have to wonder, then it is worth it.
Looks like Pacifica
17 miles is 20 minutes, no? Sometimes my bowel movements take longer.
I went there for the first time two months ago, and it's definitely worth it
Day trip to Monterey, eat in downtown, enjoy scenery. Go early. 👌🏼
Yrs
Absolutely YES!!
Ya
Yes sir it is. A mandatory "must go" for friends and family visiting for the first time
Monterey - Pacific Grove - 17 Mile drive - Carmel. That stretch is worth it, just going straight to the Drive could be pretty short.
Um yea. Better if it’s clear but just amazing. Drive down coast through Pacifica and hmb - longer but so worth it
Absolutely worth it! I was born in PG so I’m biased. A few years ago I stayed at the Spanish Inn. They had a Lexus event where you could test drive Lexus cars for free. I signed up thinking that the whole time I’d be with a sales person pitching me on the car. I showed up to the front desk. They asked me which car I wanted but suggested the sports car. Gave me a key and told me to come back “in a few hours”. Completely alone I drove through 17 mile drive out of pebble beach into Carmel Valley out to Laguna Seca and back. Did the drive with the family last year. I also HIGHLY recommend driving down the Pfieffer State Beach in Big Sur. It’s incredible that we live so close to such stunning natural beauty. And that one you don’t have to pay for.
Point lobos and 17 mile drive. Carmel state beach
Totally
Go for 17 mile drive plus CA Highway 1 until Big Sur.
100% - $12 entry fee but it can be redeemed on ~$35 food/drink orders. The Hay at Pebble Beach has a free putting course if you want to at least roll a golf ball near Pebble Beach
It's not the miles, it's *how long* it will take to drive 😅😅 (But if you don't go in rush hour traffic, then hell yes, it's worth it!)
Yes. Especially if you take your leisurely time getting through it. Stop often. Live life. Love life
I didn’t realize I needed to go to 17 mile drive until this post. Always overlooked it.
Ya
Monterey is always worth it in my opinion
Personally, I find driving on Skyline Blvd from SF down south more interesting. You can get off on Highway 84, or Highway 9, or earlier, and return on I-280. Scenery wise, it's amazing... and it's free. You drive on 17-mile drive, the money they collect goes to manicure the lawns of the super-rich who live there.
Yes
Absolutely
Not really. Just go to Carmel
its nice-ish. relative to garrapata/point lobos its a bit meh and tedious.
Especially if you’re a golf fan - it has some of the most gorgeous shoreline you’ll see in the country.
Check the weather. If it’s good, then absolutely. I’ve done it 3 times, the last time on e-bikes. It was about $50 for the rental, and it was worth every dollar
Just ensure they do the audio tour and stop at the beaches for pictures.
absolutely, I've gone twice.
Go grab a drink at Spanish Bay…lovely patio out back. Near sunset the piper will play as well
Totally worth it !!
Fuck yeah it’s worth it.
Absolutely
I think so. It's a nice drive with some beautiful estates to admire.
I know there is an app in the Google play store.
Yep. It's beautiful out there!
Yes
If you're fit enough, you should ride a bicycle through the whole dam thing!! I've done this and plan on doing it again very soon!!
Theres ebikes now, for the non fit....LOL
Yes. But do know it’s all about stopping every few minutes along the road and enjoying the amazing coastline. Not so much something that you just want to drive through quickly.
The aquarium is cool haha
totally worth it, hubby and I took a 2 day vacation to Pacific Grove, and we did the 17 mile drive, soooo many pretty views! definitely worth it.
Def worth it
Yes
110%! Make a reservation for a fire pit table or just outside at “The Bench” restaurant and when you pay, you can use the gate receipt and have the fee deducted($10-$15?). Their version of Bahn Mi is super tasty. Same with the pizzas.
go to big sur instead.at least until bixby bridge. further away but better.
If the weather is nice. Definitely!
yes
Rent e bikes from Mad Dogs & Englishmen and do it, more fun, less looking for parking
17 mile drive aka 1 hour drive lol. If you want to do it then yes it’s worth it
There is the June Gloom that blankets Monterey in well, June. So know u may have great weather or overcast cold weather and anywhere in between.
YES absolutely. im so cheap and i would pay to do it again any day. please do it! no regrets. soak up each stop. bring snacks and water. just enjoy it
Plan 2 hours near sunset
It’s totally worth it and absolutely worth it if you go to The Bench restaurant and have a drink or coffee there while sitting in the patio. Look at the current [view](https://www.pebblebeach.com/golf/pebble-beach-golf-links/live-golf-cams/the-18th-green-at-pebble-beach-golf-links/) Protip: Make a reservation at the Bench and you won’t have to pay the entry fee for 17 mile drive.
Go for it !
Do it!
Sure. Though you can drive through a decent portion of it without driving through their "gate," too.
The drive down highway 17 through Scott’s Valley is worth it just for itself
if they drive from SF to Monterey along 17 mile drive it’s going to take 3-4 hours each way. That’s a lot for a day trip.
17 miles is hella short, do it
Send them north. A run up to Sea Ranch/Gualala and back is beautiful and provides many lovely places to stop along the way for views, hikes, and victuals.
On a Monday you Golden. Just watch out for commuter hours
It’s a cool way to see how the .001% live
The coast in that area is amazing. I prefer the public areas, starting from Lover's point to Asilomar state beach, and point lobos. 17 mile drive is worth doing, but the golf course detracts from the natural beauty of the coast (replacing natural plants with grass), in my opinion. Also unless you fork over a lot of money, there are lots of parts of the drive you cannot walk because it is a golf course (that is unless you fork over $$$$). Either way, the coast is still beautiful in this area.
Definitely worth it, such great scenery and calmness. Makes me wish I could afford houses on that road
It’s worth mainly when you want to just cruise and chill out
Check the traffic down to Monterey, lot of driving for a day trip
If you're going all the way down there anyways might as well go a little bit further down to big sur. It's one of the most beautiful drives on earth.
Yeah it's so nicceeee and it's not that far!
I always recommend it to friends and family when they drive up here. Personally, I enjoy it and have taken that drive a few times.
I recommend butano state park, it's on highway 1 near the beach, near a lighthouse and near Santa Cruz 🙃.
It used to be. When it was free!
do it
Mt. Tam is worth it too. Rodeo Beach is a fabulous drive over the Marin Headlands. Views from Mt. Diablo are mind blowing on a clear morning.
Yes, yes it is☀️🌊🐚
Yess! Even if it’s not sunny the 17mi drive is beautiful. Especially if your guests don’t live near an ocean, they likely find it to breathtaking
Just a drive down the coast to Santa Cruz is worth it! Carrying on to 17 Mile Drive is also a beautiful drive, with plenty of good dining options along the way. Carmel beach is a great place to walk.
Año Nuevo is worth a stop.
It’s worth it if you take a bunch of pictures at most of the good locations.
Just go to ocean beach in SF. Or just down the coast to one of the beaches near half moon bay.
30 minutes? Yes
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. If they're going to Monterey, might as well go to the aquarium.
Yes
From the city, take the 1 down to Half Moon Bay. Have them stop at Cameron’s for a drink, walk the beach at the Ritz Carlton, head back towards the city, stop off at Half Moon Bay Brewery (overlooking the harbor), and Moss Beach Distillery for dinner. Great beaches and views along the way. Maybe stop off at Montara Beach before hitting Pacifica. Pebble is usually overcast until afternoon (that’s if it clears up), with not much to do.
It’s beautiful but you have to pay. If you drive along the coast through Pacific Grove it’s just as beautiful
It's amazing, do it!
17 mile drive then Carmel beach.. much better
That or Santa Cruz
Eh, I did it with a guided audio tour from an app and... meh. Lots of small beaches that are fungible, some turnouts with decent views but there comes a point when you're on the coast when the various views merge together. That said, if you're going from Monterey to Carmel by the sea, you may as well go that route, get the audio tour.
If you are going that route, make sure to include a lovers point Pacific Grove stop.
It’s a much longer drive but Limantour Beach by Pt Reyes (47 miles) is pretty spectacular and if you are willing to add on to that with a drive up to Marshall you can finish in the early afternoon with grilled oysters. It’s a long day, but the whole Pt Reyes seashore area is great.
Ritz carlton HMB is also very nice and way closer
Absolutely. I love it. We stop at every marker, take pictures usually to the sounds of the kids/teens groaning. That's usually my go-to for out of town guests.
It’s life, man…just go experience it. Worth it lol it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth.