Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park McWay Falls
Witness an 80-foot waterfall cascade directly onto a pristine beach in Big Sur's Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park McWay Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness an 80-foot waterfall cascade directly onto a pristine beach in Big Sur's Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
"This waterfall is one of the highlights driving along the pacific cost."
Check Trail Status
The overlook trail can close for repairs. Confirm access before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited. Arrive early or be prepared to park along Highway 1.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
McWay Falls Overlook
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Witness an 80-foot waterfall cascade directly onto a pristine beach or into the ocean.
Waterfall Trail
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
An easy, short walk offering stunning, postcard-worthy views of the falls and coastline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Access & Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Trail Status
The overlook trail can close for repairs. Confirm access before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited. Arrive early or be prepared to park along Highway 1.
Foggy Views Possible
Big Sur can be foggy. Check the weather forecast for the clearest views of the falls.
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the scenery with a packed lunch. Limited dining options nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Trail Status
The overlook trail can close for repairs. Confirm access before your visit to avoid disappointment.
Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited. Arrive early or be prepared to park along Highway 1.
Foggy Views Possible
Big Sur can be foggy. Check the weather forecast for the clearest views of the falls.
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy the scenery with a packed lunch. Limited dining options nearby.
Combine with Other Stops
McWay Falls is one of many gems on the Big Sur coast. Allow ample time for exploration.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
McWay Falls is universally praised for its breathtaking beauty and unique spectacle of an 80-foot waterfall cascading onto a beach. Visitors appreciate the easy access via a short trail and the stunning coastal views. Some note that fog can obscure the view, and parking can be challenging during peak times.
"McWay Falls is one of the most iconic and breathtaking natural sights along California’s Highway 1, nestled within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in the heart of Big Sur. This 80-foot waterfall dramatically cascades directly onto a secluded beach or into the Pacific Ocean, depending on the tide, creating a picture-perfect view that looks like it belongs on a postcard. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that it's one of the few waterfalls in the U.S. that empties directly into the ocean.
Located right off Highway 1, the park is accessible via a short, well-maintained trail that leads to an overlook with a spectacular, panoramic view of the falls and the turquoise waters below. The trail is flat and easy, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. There is also a historic house site nearby and interpretive signs that tell the story of the park and the McWay family's legacy.
While access to the beach is restricted to protect the fragile ecosystem, the viewpoint alone is more than worth the stop. Parking can be limited during peak times, so it's best to arrive early. Overall, McWay Falls is a must-see destination for travelers exploring Big Sur—offering a serene, almost magical experience that's perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking peace and inspiration from the natural world."
krrazie
"Beautiful waterfall with breathtaking views. Ontop of that, it's pretty easy to get there. Went on the weekends and there were many free parking spaces by the road. Definitely recommend."
lolmer
"Beautiful spot! Like a 10 min walk through the tunnel from the car parking lot to see the falls. You can't go near the falls but can see them from top of the cliff clearly. Worth it to stop by here if you're in the area"
Ashmit
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
McWay Falls is located directly off Highway 1 in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, Big Sur. If driving north to south, it will be on your right. If driving south to north, you'll need to make a U-turn or use a designated turn-out.
While you can see the falls from Highway 1, the best views are from the Waterfall Overlook Trail within the park. Access to the beach below the falls is restricted.
Typically, you need to pay the day-use fee for Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to access the main parking lot and overlook trail. Some visitors have found parking along Highway 1, but this is not guaranteed and may require a longer walk.
Most visitors drive along Highway 1. The drive itself is scenic. Be aware of winding roads and potential traffic.
Public transportation options are very limited in Big Sur. Driving your own vehicle or renting a car is the most common and practical way to reach McWay Falls.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The day-use fee for Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is typically $10 per car. This fee grants access to the park and the overlook trail.
The park is generally open from 8:00 AM until sunset. It's always a good idea to check the official California State Parks website for the most current hours.
Tickets are typically purchased upon arrival at the park. Advance booking is usually not required for day-use entry, but it's wise to check for any special event or holiday advisories.
Parking along Highway 1 is generally free, but it can be very limited and may require a significant walk to the park entrance and overlook.
Yes, a valid California State Parks day-use pass should cover the entrance fee for Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main Waterfall Overlook Trail is a very easy, short walk, approximately 0.5 miles roundtrip. It takes about 30 minutes to complete.
No, access to the beach below McWay Falls is restricted to protect the fragile ecosystem. You can only view the falls from the overlook trail.
The primary viewpoint is from the Waterfall Overlook Trail, which offers a clear and stunning perspective of the falls.
Yes, restrooms are available within the park, typically near the parking area.
The Waterfall Overlook Trail is generally flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for strollers. Wheelchair accessibility may vary depending on the condition of the path.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. Midday can be harsh, and fog can obscure the view.
For capturing the waterfall's motion, a tripod and a slower shutter speed are recommended. For the overall landscape, a wider aperture can ensure a good depth of field.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in California State Parks, including Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check park regulations.
A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the grandeur of the falls and the surrounding coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details if desired.
No, you can only view McWay Falls from the designated overlook trail. The beach below is inaccessible.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While you can't access the beach, the overlook provides a safe and stunning view. Consider bringing binoculars for kids to get a closer look at the falls and the surrounding cliffs. The park's natural beauty offers a wonderful opportunity for kids to connect with nature.
🚗 Road Trippers
Combine your visit with other Big Sur highlights like Bixby Bridge and Pfeiffer Beach. Be prepared for winding roads and potential traffic. Always check road conditions before you go, as closures can impact your itinerary.
📸 Photographers
While the overlook provides a great view, be mindful of the limited access to the beach. Experiment with different angles and compositions to capture the unique interaction of the waterfall with the ocean. Drone photography is generally prohibited in state parks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of McWay Falls
The accessibility of McWay Falls is a major draw. A short, well-maintained trail, known as the Waterfall Overlook Trail, leads visitors from the parking area to a viewpoint offering breathtaking panoramic views. This easy walk makes it a perfect stop for all ages and fitness levels. While the beach itself is off-limits to protect its delicate environment, the overlook provides an unforgettable perspective of the falls and the dramatic coastline.
Beyond the falls, the park offers a glimpse into the history of the McWay family, who once owned the land. Interpretive signs along the trail provide context about the area's natural and human history. For many, a visit to McWay Falls is a highlight of any Big Sur road trip, offering a moment of serene beauty and awe-inspiring natural power.
Navigating Big Sur's Highway 1
When planning your drive, be aware that sections of Highway 1 can be subject to closures due to landslides or road maintenance, especially after heavy rains. It's crucial to check Caltrans for current road conditions before you depart. Parking at popular spots like McWay Falls can be challenging, particularly during peak season and on weekends. Arriving early in the day or late in the afternoon can significantly improve your chances of finding a spot.
Beyond McWay Falls, Highway 1 offers numerous other points of interest, including Bixby Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach (known for its purple sand), and various state parks and hiking trails. Many travelers recommend dedicating a full day or even two to explore the Big Sur coastline thoroughly, allowing ample time for spontaneous stops and to truly soak in the magnificent scenery.
Social
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