Fanshell Overlook
A scenic overlook on the iconic 17-Mile Drive, famous for harbor seals and stunning Pacific vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Seal pupping season
Fanshell Overlook
Best Time
Seal pupping season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic overlook on the iconic 17-Mile Drive, famous for harbor seals and stunning Pacific vistas.
"Must visit this place if you’re visiting SFO or California Trip."
🚗 Pay for the Drive
The $12.25 entry fee for 17-Mile Drive is worth it for cleaner, quieter access.
🦭 Seal Season Access
Check for seasonal closures during seal pupping (April-June) for best viewing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Harbor Seal Pups
Fanshell Beach
Witness adorable harbor seal pups and their mothers basking on the sand during the spring pupping season.
Dramatic Coastal Views
17-Mile Drive
Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastline, and iconic cypress trees.
White Sand Beach
Fanshell Beach
A beautiful stretch of white sand offering a serene spot to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Seal Sightings
17-Mile Drive Entry Fee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Pay for the Drive
The $12.25 entry fee for 17-Mile Drive is worth it for cleaner, quieter access.
🦭 Seal Season Access
Check for seasonal closures during seal pupping (April-June) for best viewing.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal shots and wildlife.
🚶♀️ Explore the Overlooks
Stop at multiple points along the 17-Mile Drive for diverse scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Pay for the Drive
The $12.25 entry fee for 17-Mile Drive is worth it for cleaner, quieter access.
🦭 Seal Season Access
Check for seasonal closures during seal pupping (April-June) for best viewing.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning coastal shots and wildlife.
🚶♀️ Explore the Overlooks
Stop at multiple points along the 17-Mile Drive for diverse scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of the 17-Mile Drive, with Fanshell Overlook being a highlight for its unique seal viewing opportunities. The scenic route offers stunning coastal vistas and a peaceful escape, though some find the entry fee a bit high.
"Visited beach in the Weekend while visiting SFO trip. 17 mile drive is extremely good and neat to see. Must visit this place if you’re visiting SFO or California Trip. Entrance fee is around $12 for visitors. Must visit place in California."
Madhu Shankar Pamidimarri
"Definitely worth the 10.75 to enter. Also the 10 75 is reimbursed if you eat at a restaurant in pebble beach. But if you don't want to fight people or get your blood pressure raised for a parking spot pay the 10.75 and drive on the 17 mile drive road. It's cleaner and quieter."
Sunnayna Singh
"Great beautiful beach to just sit and take in the pacific breeze and the sounds of the waves breaking on the rocks...."
Waleed
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Fanshell Overlook is located along the famous 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach. You can enter the drive from gates in Pacific Grove, Carmel, or off Highway 1. There is a per-vehicle entry fee.
Yes, there are designated parking areas at the overlook. However, it can get busy, especially during peak season.
While the 17-Mile Drive is primarily for vehicles, there are pedestrian and bike paths in some sections. However, driving is the most common way to access the overlooks.
The Pacific Grove and Carmel gates are popular choices. The specific gate you choose might influence the order in which you see the various viewpoints.
Most visitors agree the fee is well worth it for the stunning scenery, access to iconic spots like Fanshell Overlook, and the well-maintained road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee for the 17-Mile Drive is approximately $12.25 per vehicle. This fee grants access to all the scenic points along the route.
Yes, the entry fee can sometimes be reimbursed if you dine at a restaurant within Pebble Beach. It's best to check with the restaurant directly for current policies.
Discounts are not commonly advertised, but the fee is generally considered a good value for the experience.
The 17-Mile Drive is typically open from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Pebble Beach website for the most up-to-date hours.
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Fanshell Overlook. Access is granted upon payment of the 17-Mile Drive entry fee.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are of the harbor seals on the beach and the sweeping ocean vistas. The white sand beach itself also makes for beautiful shots.
Sunset is often recommended for its beautiful lighting, but daytime offers clear views of the seals.
Drone usage is generally restricted in protected wildlife areas and private properties like Pebble Beach. It's best to check local regulations before flying.
A telephoto lens is useful for capturing seals from a distance, while a wide-angle lens is great for the expansive coastal landscapes.
While specific tours for Fanshell Overlook might be rare, many general Monterey Peninsula photography tours will include stops along the 17-Mile Drive.
🎫 🦭 Wildlife Viewing
The primary pupping season for harbor seals at Fanshell Beach is typically from April to June. Outside of this period, seals may be less common.
Seals are wild animals and their presence can vary. They are most likely to be seen resting on the beach during pupping season.
No, it's important to maintain a safe and respectful distance from the seals to avoid disturbing them, especially during pupping season.
Besides harbor seals, you might spot sea lions, various seabirds, and if you're lucky, sea otters along the 17-Mile Drive.
Yes, the coastal environment attracts a variety of seabirds, making it a decent spot for birdwatching.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember that the beach itself might be closed during pupping season, but the overlook provides a great view. Pack snacks and drinks, as options are limited along the drive. Consider making a day of it by combining your visit with other family-friendly stops on the 17-Mile Drive, such as Bird Rock for more wildlife viewing or Spanish Bay Beach for a chance to play in the sand (when seals aren't present). The relatively short driving distances between points of interest make it manageable for younger children.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
The entry fee is a small price to pay for the well-maintained road and access to breathtaking views and unique attractions like the seal rookery. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the 17-Mile Drive, including stops at Fanshell Overlook and other key viewpoints like Cypress Point Lookout and the Lone Cypress. It's an ideal addition to a larger California coastal itinerary, offering a taste of the luxury and natural beauty of Pebble Beach.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the 17-Mile Drive Experience
+1Travelers often recommend taking your time to stop at the various overlooks, each offering a unique perspective of the Pacific. Popular stops include Spanish Bay, Bird Rock, Cypress Point Lookout, and of course, Fanshell Beach Overlook. The road is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it easy to navigate. Many visitors suggest bringing a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated spots, or planning a meal at one of Pebble Beach's renowned restaurants, which can sometimes offer reimbursement for the drive fee.
While the drive is beautiful year-round, the experience can be enhanced by understanding the seasonal highlights. The spring months are particularly special due to the harbor seal pupping season at Fanshell Overlook, offering a unique wildlife viewing opportunity. Regardless of the season, the 17-Mile Drive promises a memorable journey through some of California's most stunning coastal scenery.
Harbor Seals at Fanshell Overlook
+1It's crucial for visitors to be aware that access to the beach itself may be restricted during the pupping season to protect the seals. However, the overlook offers excellent views of the seals resting on the sand. Remember to use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens to get a closer look without getting too close. Respecting the wildlife and maintaining a safe distance is paramount to ensuring the seals' well-being and continued use of this important habitat.
Beyond the pupping season, harbor seals can still be spotted in the waters or occasionally on the shore, though in smaller numbers. The presence of seals at Fanshell Overlook is a testament to the ecological importance of this stretch of coastline and adds a unique wildlife dimension to the already spectacular scenery of the 17-Mile Drive.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit