In short
- April and May are best for wildflowers and harbor seal pups.
- September and October bring the clearest skies and least fog.
- Go early in the morning to beat heavy traffic.
In this article
Choosing the best time to visit 17-Mile Drive changes your experience. The scenic route takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete. Planning your arrival time helps you avoid vehicle traffic near popular stops like the Lone Cypress and Bird Rock.
What is the best time of year to visit 17-Mile Drive?
September and October offer the clearest weather. April and May are ideal for seeing wildlife and wildflowers.
Fall brings sunny days and less coastal fog. Spring is the pupping season for harbor seals. The seals return to Fanshell Overlook every spring to give birth. Access to the beach may be restricted to protect nursing seals, but you can still view them from the overlook.
| Season | Best For | Weather |
|---|---|---|
| April - May | Wildflowers & Seal Pups | Mild with some fog |
| Sept - Oct | Clear Views & Photos | Clear skies, less fog |
What is the best time of day to do 17-Mile Drive?
Arrive right at sunrise or late in the afternoon to avoid the heaviest crowds.
The gates open at sunrise. Starting early gives you quiet roads and easy parking. A late afternoon drive puts you at Spanish Bay in time to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
How do you beat the crowds on 17-Mile Drive?
Visit on a weekday morning and skip the middle of the day.
The route gets busy between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Weekend afternoons see the highest traffic, especially near The Lodge at Pebble Beach. If you visit during peak hours, consider an e-bike tour to navigate past the vehicle traffic.
What is the weather like along the coast?
Coastal fog is common in the mornings. Ocean breezes keep temperatures cool all day.
The Monterey Peninsula experiences a marine layer that often burns off by the afternoon. Always pack layered clothing. You might start your drive in a chilly fog and end in bright sunshine.
When is the best time for photos on 17-Mile Drive?
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light for photography.
The coastal colors are richest just after sunrise and right before sunset. The Lone Cypress faces the ocean, making it an excellent silhouette shot at sunset. Remember that drones are not allowed without prior authorization.
When is the best time to see wildlife?
Spring is the best time to see harbor seal pups. Sea lions and birds are visible year-round.
Bird Rock holds hundreds of cormorants, pelicans, and sea lions no matter the season. If you want to see nursing harbor seals, visit in April or May. Bring binoculars to spot whales and sea otters offshore.
Questions travellers ask
How long does it take to do the 17-Mile Drive?
It takes about 2 to 3 hours to comfortably complete the 17-mile loop with stops at the 17 designated viewpoints.
Is the 17-Mile Drive worth the fee?
Yes, the scenic route offers access to famous landmarks like the Lone Cypress. The gate fee is reimbursed if you spend $35 or more at most Pebble Beach Resort restaurants.
Does the 17-Mile Drive fee take credit cards?
Bring a card and some cash; payment options at the gate can change. The toll gates charge a toll.
