United States · Big Sur, California
McWay Falls
One of very few waterfalls in the world that drops directly onto a beach, this year-round stream free-falls from a coastal bluff onto sand that, because the cove is fenced off from public access, stays untouched. A short trail from Highway 1 reaches the only legal viewpoint.
One of very few waterfalls in the world that drops directly onto a beach, this year-round stream free-falls from a coastal bluff onto sand that, because the cove is fenced off from public access, stays untouched. A short trail from Highway 1 reaches the only legal viewpoint.
McWay Falls drops 24 metres (79 ft) on the McWay Creek, inside Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. It is a plunge-type fall, and the nearest base for a visit is Big Sur, with MRY the closest airport. Access to the main viewpoint is rated easy.
Flows year-round; clearest ocean views come on fog-free spring and fall days.
What you can do here
Hiking
From ten-minute boardwalks to multi-day approaches through cloud forest.
Photography
Light angles, moonbows, spray management and the hours that actually work.
When to go
Flows year-round; clearest ocean views come on fog-free spring and fall days.
Entry: State park day-use fee
Getting there
- Base townBig Sur
- AirportMRY
- CountryUnited States
- RegionBig Sur, California, North America
- AccessEasy — a short walk or roadside viewpoint
On the map
36.1592, -121.6725
Quick answers
How tall is McWay Falls?
McWay Falls drops 24 metres (79 feet). It is a plunge-type waterfall on the McWay Creek.
When is the best time to visit McWay Falls?
Peak flow is April to June and September to October. Flows year-round; clearest ocean views come on fog-free spring and fall days.
What can you do at McWay Falls?
Beyond the viewpoints: hiking and photography. Access to the main viewpoint is rated easy — a short walk or roadside viewpoint.
How do you get to McWay Falls?
The usual base is Big Sur, and the closest airport is MRY. A short walk or roadside viewpoint from there. State park day-use fee.
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