Skip to main content
Coastal Beauty: McWay Falls, California
Explore McWay Falls along the Big Sur coastline in California. An easy walk provides stunning views of the 80-foot waterfall cascading into the Pacific. Ideal for photographers and wildlife watchers with opportunities to see sea otters and migrating whales. Best visited in spring and fall.
McWay Falls
•9.2/10
•Easy
Coastal Beauty: McWay Falls, California
Category
Landmark Viewing
Typical Duration
2-4 hours
Difficulty
Easy
Photo Gallery
Coastal Beauty: McWay Falls, California - McWay Falls
About This Landmark
Discover the enchanting McWay Falls, located on the stunning Big Sur coastline of California. This 80-foot waterfall is a rare tidefall, cascading directly into the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. Located within Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, McWay Falls offers visitors a breathtaking vista, featuring rocky cliffs and lush coastal vegetation. The intimate cove at the base of the waterfall can be seen from a safe vantage point on the park's trail. Unlike many waterfalls, McWay Falls is one of the few in the world that drops directly onto a sandy beach, making it uniquely captivating. The area is rich in natural beauty, offering dramatic landscapes and diverse flora. Nearby, the rugged cliffs provide habitat for redwoods, oaks, and a variety of wildlife, including sea otters and migrating whales. The park was named in honor of pioneering homesteader Julia Pfeiffer Burns, whose legacy adds a touch of history to this breathtaking locale. With its combination of natural spectacle and serene beauty, McWay Falls stands out as a must-visit destination on the California coast.
Adventure Guide To McWay Falls
1. Hiking the Overlook Trail
- Location: Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
- Highlights: The Overlook Trail provides a short, easy hike with spectacular views of McWay Falls and the Pacific Ocean.
- Features: Well-maintained paths and accessible viewpoints.
- Tips: Bring a camera for the stunning views; best visited at sunrise or sunset for optimal lighting.
2. Coastal Wildlife Watching
- Location: Big Sur Coastline
- Highlights: Spot sea otters, seals, or migrating whales from the park’s vantage points.
- Features: Panoramic ocean views with ample opportunities for wildlife photography.
- Tips: Bring binoculars for a closer look; ideal to visit during migration seasons (novice to March for gray whales).
3. Scenic Drive Along Highway 1
- Location: California’s Highway 1
- Highlights: Experience one of the world’s most scenic drives with unparalleled views of the coastline.
- Features: Numerous pullouts for taking photos and breathing in the ocean breeze.
- Tips: Allow extra time for stops; visit during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, and a camera.
- Directions: From Monterey, drive south on Highway 1 for about an hour. McWay Falls is located just past mile marker 36. Stops at designated viewpoints for the best experience.
Ratings
Overall
9.2/10User rating
Photography
9.0/10Scenic value
Featured Activities
Primary Activity
Landmark Viewing
Also Great For
Wildlife Watching
Scenic Driving
Essential Information
Nearby City
Big Sur, California
Protected Areas
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Experience Level
Easy
Experience Needed: This natural landmark is recommended for those with minimal outdoor experience. Perfect for families and beginners.