Visitors to Monterey know that 17 Mile Drive is a staple for any sight-seer’s itinerary. This scenic route will lead you past incredible beaches, groves of towering old trees, incredible wildlife, and the famous Lone Cypress. One of the most photographed trees in the country, this resilient evergreen juts up out of the granite magnificently, juxtaposed beautifully against the sea and sky. Keep reading to learn more about the must-see Lone Cypress in Pebble Beach, CA.

The Lone Cypress is estimated to be around 250 years old, which means this tree was a sapling at the start of the Revolutionary War. While it has been secured with cables since the 1950s, the Lone Cypress is one tough tree. It has survived vandalism, wildfires, droughts, and the gusty winds sweeping in from the Pacific. The Lone Cypress did lose a branch during a storm in 2019, but the tree itself is still standing strong.

It is believed that this tree, along with the rest of the Monterey Cypress trees, was brought to the peninsula by Chinese immigrants hundreds of years ago. These cypress trees are found all over Pebble Beach and Point Lobos, and where they do grow, they are plentiful. While the Lone Cypress is about 25 feet tall, other Monterey Cypress trees can grow up to 90 feet tall when sheltered from the lashing coastal winds.

On your next visit to Monterey Peninsula, make sure you take some time to go and visit the beautiful Lone Cypress. The best time to visit this natural landmark is during the Spring and Fall. Don’t forget, the Lone Cypress is just one of the incredible sights waiting for you in Monterey, so make sure to read up on the other must-see places in the area.

Lodging Near Lone Cypress

For convenient access to the most iconic attractions around, book your stay with Carmel Valley Lodge. Start every morning off right with a gourmet breakfast, take a relaxing stroll through our lush gardens, and go for a dip in our sparkling pool. The atmosphere of our tranquil property will set the tone for your perfect Big Sur getaway.