Experiencing 1he 17-Mile Drive at Pebble Beach
If you've heard about the breathtaking scenery of California's
17-mile drive .... we're here to report that it's all absolutely true.
Prepare for breathtaking forests, spectacular ocean vistas, and close-up views of birds and wildlife, seals, otters and sea lions. But 17-mile drive is so much more.
And even if you aren't a golf fan, you'll soon realize why anybody would want to play at the mega-course that is Pebble Beach.
Ready, Set, Drive
Navigating by car through the drive couldn't be easier.
Start at any one of five entry gates along the route to begin your journey.
Admission is $9 per car, but entry is free for those who want to bike or hike along the trail.
Don't forget to ask for a map, which easily guides visitors through the more than 20 scenic vistas offering dozens of photo-ops along the way.
The journey begins quietly enough through Del Monte forest with well-marked lookout points at Shepherd's Knoll and Huckleberry Hill for stunning views of Monterey Bay and the Santa Cruz Mountains.
From here onward, the anticipation begins to build as you wind your way long the coast with breathtaking wonders at every turn.
If you're limited for time (the drive can vary from a mere half hour, to
an all-day excursion, depending how leisurely you travel) you'll definitely want to see the major attractions.
The rugged, picture perfect
coast along 17-Mile Drive.
The
Restless Sea - this aptly-named spot provides a sea-misted
atmosphere and the spectacular power of crashing waves - caused
by underwater turbulence from rock outcroppings located offshore at the next stop,
Point Joe.
Point
Joe - Named for a 19th century Chinese fisherman,
this is the site where many 19th century mariners crashed their ships
in the ocean waters where several currents meet. Today, the result is still a powerful show of nature at her most threatening (or entertaining) -- especially when you're watching the ocean heave and crash from the safety the scenic lookout!
Bird
Rock - At first glance, this is just a big rock jutting out from the ocean. But look closer, and you'll see that this is no ordinary rock. It's one that's alive with thousands of birds, seals, and sea lions frolicking to their hearts' content as they are protected from modern day noise and traffic lying just offshore. Use your camera zoom or binoculars for close-up views of one of the busiest 'neighborhoods' along the Pacific coast.
The
Lone Cypress - Find just the right vantage point to capture the image of this
250-year-old tree, a world famous landmark, that still valiantly
clings to life on its craggy perch.