The state has no shortage of jaw-dropping spots, but when it comes to state parks, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park in Big Sur really takes the cake.Travel + Leisurerecently named it the prettiest state park in California, and it’s easy to see why.
Nestled along the recently reopened Highway 1, this park is known for its iconic waterfall and stunning coastal landscape. The redwoods here are centuries old, wildlife is abundant, and every turn feels like a postcard, perfect for anyone who loves getting out in nature.
🌊 McWay Falls, Big Sur 🌊 Is this the most magical spot in Big Sur? I think so! ✨ McWay Falls is one of California’s most iconic landmarks, where an 80-foot waterfall gracefully cascades directly onto the sandy cove below. The views here are straight out of a dream. 🌅 📍 Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park 🎟️ Fee: $10 per car for day use ⏰ Hours: 8:00 AM – Sunset The trail to the viewpoint is short and easy, perfect for all fitness levels. Whether you’re stopping for a quick photo or spending time soaking in the scenery, this spot is a must-visit on any Big Sur itinerary. Tips: 💡 The beach is inaccessible, and it’s illegal to attempt to go down. The best way to enjoy McWay Falls is via the McWay Falls Overlook Trail. 💡 To find the parking area, navigate to McWay Waterfall Trailhead and look for the sign on a rock wall that says “McWay Canyon Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.” 💡 Part of the trail has been closed recently, so check for updates before visiting. 💡 Parking can be crowded—arrive early and plan accordingly. It’s a short 5-minute walk from the parking area to the waterfall viewpoint. 💌 Follow for more California travel tips and hidden gems! 🌟 Big Sur, Big Sur California, California Coast, Mcway Falls California, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park California #bigsur#mcwayfalls#bigsurcalifornia#juliapfeifferstatepark#juliapfeifferburnsstatepark
McWay Falls is the crown jewel here. This 80-foot waterfall drops straight from a cliff into the Pacific, which is something you don’t often see anywhere in the world. Only a handful of waterfalls behave like this, from spots in Hawaii to South Africa. You can take in the view from the park’s lookout points, but heads up: the beach is off-limits, so no walking down to the sand.
Best things to do at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
Big Sur ⛰️ Ewoldsen Trail and McWay Falls 🌱🌊 Guys words cannot describe the insane beauty that is Big Sur, even this video I think can barely do it justice ✨ If you’re in big sure and can only do one trail I would recommend doing the Ewoldsen Trail and taking a minute to see McWay falls, the trail and the falls are both insanely gorgeous 🙌🏽 The water by the coast has a vibrant electric blue color and the brilliant white rock formations complement it so well it is something you need to experience at least once in your life 🪨 I hope you all loved this video and there’s more where this came from, we’re not done with Big Sur just yet, so stick around and I’ll see ya’ll then Happy Hiking, Love Ya’ll! 🥾💕 #bigsur#mcwayfalls#ewoldsenloop#hiking#californiaadventure
Beyond the waterfall, there’s plenty to explore. The Ewoldsen Trail is a five-mile hike winding through redwoods and wildflowers, a treat for anyone who loves a scenic trek. For a shorter jaunt, the mile-long Partington Cove Trail leads through a historic tunnel and ends with jaw-dropping ocean views.
When you’re ready for a break, head to Nepenthe, a clifftop restaurant just five miles north. Its Ambrosiaburger is a must, and the views of the coastline while you eat are just as memorable as the hike.
Best time to visit the park
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Big Sur’s mild climate makes the park a good spot year-round, with temperatures usually in the 50s to 70s.Summer brings the famous “May Gray” and “June Gloom,” but afternoons often clear up.
Whale watchers can plan around migrations: gray whales from December to April, humpbacks in spring and fall, and blue whales from June to October. If you want a mix of nature and culture, time your trip with local events like Carmel’s Culinary Week or Monterey’s Jazz Festival.
