17 Mile Drive

Only a few miles from Monterey, on the south side of the Monterey peninsula, lies Carmel. The many charms of the countryside make it worthwhile going the long way round, the "Seventeen Mile Drive". This begins at Pacific Grove Gate and then goes along the Pacific coast and for part of the way through the Del Monte Forest, where there is a number of large villas.

Must-see attractions nearby:

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Cannery Row

Monterey Museum of Art

Stevenson House

California's First Theatre (closed)

San Carlos Cathedral

Perry Downer House

The forest is impressive with a rich abundance of cypress trees and the Monterey pines. You will also drive past picturesque beaches, isolated cliffs, the "Lone Cypress", the Pebble Beach Golf Course and the "Lodge at Pebble Beach" Hotel, where rooms cost $300. Many kinds of gulls live in the Seal and Bird Rocks. Often you can spot sea lions and seals there too. Cypress Lookout offers a particularly beautiful view north and south along the Pacific coast.

If you have some time to kill you may want to plan on pulling off to take pictures, enjoy some time at the beach or have a picnic. You can make a day of it, stop at some of the lookouts, or simply drive right through.

Tips: There is a toll to use this private road.