![]() ![]() If I could only pick one, I preferred the free-flowing beauty of the PCH portion we covered in our brief time over the commercialized 17-Mile Drive. The Bottom Line:Ĭomparing the two scenic drive options, both afford stunning views. In 2022, the single car fee is $11.25, which is reimbursable with a purchase of $35 or more at a Pebble Beach Resort Restaurant, excluding the market. The Lone Cypress – a single Cypress tree standing tall on a rock pedestal that inspired the Pebble Beach logo.Bird Rock – a wildlife consortium of buzzing birds and barking sea lions.The Restless Sea – the most tumultuous section of the drive with crashing waves and converging waters splashing over the rocks.Not all points of interest are equivalent. Popular StopsĪfter entering the gate, you receive a brochure highlighting seventeen stops on the 17-mile roadway. I found myself torn between staring at the sea or studying the mansions. Although you enter the tourist area anticipating ocean views, the magnificent houses dotted across the golf course bluffs and shoreline garner massive attention. Also know that homes try to steal the show. However, 17-Mile Drive zigzags through a private resort community.Īs a result of private possession, owners monetized access to this coastal road. The popular 17-Mile Drive of Pebble Beach is a mere fraction compared to the vast route of CA-1, and this roadway would likely be part of it. While not technically part of PCH or CA-1, the weathered coastline road mirrors the path and vistas afforded on PCH. Seventeen Mile Drive is the stretch of road that encircles the Pebble Beach peninsula. You pay the fee to visit Pfeiffer beach even with an annual state park pass. Note that annual state park passes include state reserves and parks but not beaches. Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – $10/vehicle.However, the state reserves, parks, and beaches charge a day use fee. There is no cost to travel on the PCH roadway and stop at designated pull-offs for photo sessions. Pfeiffer Beach – treacherous single road leads to magical beach area with purple sand.Area includes popular state parks like Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and Andrew Molera State Park. Big Sur – rugged, unpopulated stretch of coastline adjacent to the Saint Lucia mountains with winding curves, steep cliffs, and beautiful bridges.Bixby Bridge – photogenic singled arch bridge towering above the pacific coast.Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – a lush marine habitat with ample hiking, sightseeing, and exploring.The sheer massiveness of PCH gives more opportunities for points of interest, so popular spots in our post pertain only to destinations nearby 17-Mile Drive. When visiting various California coastal cities like Santa Cruz, Monterey, Santa Barbara, and the like, make time to jump on the highway even if only for a small jaunt. However, even a day drive affords the opportunity to take in designated sections of the road without committing to a weeklong endeavor when limited by time. For ample time exploring the road end-to-end, plan at least four days. The remarkable stops from beginning to end include a plethora of state parks, coastal towns, vista points, and unending opportunities for adventure. Stretching for so many miles, Pacific Coast Highway is worthy of a road trip all its own. Regardless of the name, what is more important is that CA-1 and thus PCH is a major yet only two-lane highway that careens the coastline of the Pacific Ocean! Viewed in whole, this scenic route stretches more than 650 miles beginning north of San Francisco and snaking along the state’s edge south past Los Angeles. Despite the technicalities, many use the designations interchangeably. Along other points, PCH becomes just Coast Highway. Pacific Coast Highway is technically only portions of California State Route 1 (CA-1) per Wikipedia. Furthermore, we included in the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach with which he was less familiar.Īfter experiencing both, here is what you need to know to decide the best option for your trip! Pacific Coast Highway What is it? When we decided to do the Land Rover Experience in Carmel-by-the-Sea, we knew we needed to add in extra time during our trip for this dream drive. But you may find yourself asking do I need to explore both the 17-Mile Drive and Pacific Coast Highway? Which is better? What is the difference?įirst, my husband, a car enthusiast, always dreamed of driving the famous, picturesque Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) along Big Sur. For anyone visiting Carmel-by-the-Sea, your to-do list needs a scenic drive. ![]()
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