17-Mile Drive, Pebble Beach

I LOVED this area of California when my family last went. Monterey and Carmel were beautiful, and getting to see the Basilica is something unexpected anymore. The coast was breathtaking, and it didn't look like something air-brushed out of a magazine-it was real. 17 mile drive was also fantastic! I don't know why people put it down. So you had to pay almost $9? I have to pay $4 every DAY to go across a bridge to go to work, but it's worth it, and plus the Puget Sound is another gorgeous place to see, and I get to live there. It is like Washington's own Big Sur, which is also as beautiful as 17 mile drive. I definitely want to come back ASAP. Salinas county in general is one of the most beautiful places on this planet, and those who don't appreciate it should at least respect it; it's a naturally breathtaking place!

The drive is nice enough. However, I am puzzled why they charge for it. You get better scenery north of San Francisco on the coast.

The trip was unplanned but It was really beautiful. The beaches, crystal sand, million dollar homes, relaxing atmosphere and the breath taking views were spectacular. I don't know why people are complianing about 9.00 entrance fees. A whole day well spent, filled with fun and laughter with my family at this beautiful beach was priceless.

This was an amazing few hours. I started the 17 mile drive close to 5pm, hoping to time the sunset. The first part is not too scenic, however once you drop down onto beach road it's breath taking. The sun was low in the sky, the waves were crashing on the rocks. People were surfing and walking on the beach and it was so peaceful. I followed the drive and stopped at most of the points to take pictures. Stopping at Pebble Beach was cool, even if you don't play golf you will appreciate this stop on the drive. I doubled back on myself and went back to watch the sun set. It was worth it! I took so many photos my camera battery died after my last picture, talk about timing for the whole day! If you go to Monterey-Carmel, go do this drive, you won't regret it. Having to pay the $9 fee was worth it.

I go to 17miledrive without planning ahead, but this is the most valuable place in my north cal trip! words cant explain, you must go to see it!

I am from the midwest (chicago suburubs) and I considered the 17-mile drive quite beautiful and relaxing (at least from the passenger's point of view). If you are from out of town, definetly take a camera. I notice that there are many people complaining about the $8.50 toll. YOU HAVE GOT TO BE KIDDING ME!! If you're on vacation, you shouldn't be pinching pennies. And if you live in CA itself, you shouldn't be complaining since you know all about prices there. If you have the time, you definetly should go on the drive at least once in your lifetime. But don't forget to also go south and see Big Sur and the Bixby Bridge too!!

I am not a golfer, but I am an avid bicyclist. The 17 mile ride/Pebble beach trip is way over-rated. I rode the route accompanied by my wife and my 8 month old daughter in the baby seat. I did it once but I don't recommend it. Monterey on the whole was a disappointment for us. The same iffy lousy weather as San Francisco, another way over-rated destination. The aquarium is okay, the Wharf and Cannery Row could be any of many harbor tourist spots in California-Santa Barbara, Redondo, Santa Monica. . .If you must, then do the 17 mile drive by car and get it over with. I found Carmel a lot more fun, with the B and B's, wineries, etc. I guess if you are from out of state Monterey might be a thrill, but for you from in state there are plenty of better trips and sights, like the Napa Valley, the Morro Bay area, a San Diego/Tijuana day trip, etc.

The drive was nothing special. Why is it so well known? But after this we kept going south down the coast - that was much better.

Cons: Paying $8.50 per car for this drive seems like highway robbery. If they are using the money for conservation, beautification, or a good cause, they should say so. Pros: This winding, scenic drive among trees and expensive real estate (golf courses and homes) with incredible ocean views must be one of the most beautiful drives in the United States. Make the most of it by bringing a picnic lunch or snack, and spend time walking on the beaches. Don't just drive the 17 miles, but get out of the car and stop at several look outs, Pebble Beach Golf Club and beaches. It is also very romantic, a great place to propose marriage, which is exactly what happened to my daughter by our future son-in-law. We highly recommend this drive!

What a beautiful drive! There were so many things to see, I really can't wait to go back and spend more time in the area.