17-Mile Drive
Monterey, California
Road
23 miles | 870 ft elevation
Monterey is a popular destination for breathtaking ocean views, marine wildlife, and small-town charm. A ride along 17-Mile Drive is one of the best ways to take it all in, winding past dramatic oceanfront cliffs, beneath cypress trees, and through the iconic Pebble Beach community.
This ride starts at Old Fisherman’s Wharf with a leisurely spin along the Monterey Bay Coastal Trail as you make your way through town (be patient and keep a slow pace as the trail can be crowded with other cyclists, pedestrians and tourists). After about 2.5 miles, you’ll exit the path and continue onto Ocean View Blvd. You’ll ride alongside crashing waves for the next three miles, passing by oceanfront properties and numerous vista points. You’ll head up Sunset Drive and around mile 6, turn onto 17-Mile Drive and pass through the Pacific Grove Gate.
After riding along the perimeter of The Links at Spanish Bay golf course, you’ll be reunited with the coast, surrounded by blue waters on your right and pristine greens on your left. For the next three miles, enjoy the waves and keep your eyes peeled for any wildlife nearby (the sea otters love to float in the coves).
Around mile 10.5, you’ll leave the ocean view behind and head into the cypress trees, riding past many luxury homes and The Lone Cypress, the iconic tree synonymous with the Monterey Peninsula and Pebble Beach (around mile 11.5). Soon you’ll reach Pebble Beach golf course and begin the journey back to town.
Head up Portola Road, which quickly turns into Stevenson Drive, and make your way through neighborhoods and golf courses for about 4 miles until you reach the same 17-Mile gate entrance you passed through earlier. Continue along 17-Mile Drive for another mile until you see the ocean again and turn onto Ocean View Blvd. The final 3 miles will be familiar as you take the same roads and bike paths back to the wharf.
Strava Route:
Hotel Recommendation
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course - this property is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of town and has all the amenities you need for a pleasant, comfortable stay. Enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant and bar, or sip a fancy cocktail while you cozy up to one of the outdoor firepits. There are swimming pools and a golf course on the property if you’re looking for more outside activities during your stay.
Notes
The majority of this route is very popular and you will share the road with many tourists (driving and on foot), so be patient and alert. It is busy year-round, especially on weekends.
It can be very windy or foggy along the coast, so come prepared with layers.
There is no entrance fee for bicycles along 17-Mile Drive; however, cars must pay to enter and motorcycles are not allowed.
There are numerous parking spots near the start/end of this route near Fisherman’s Wharf. Pay attention to signs regarding payment and don’t leave valuables in your vehicle.
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