Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a classic Big Sur stop known for its dramatic coastal scenery, redwood canyon, and easy access to one of the area’s most photographed viewpoints. The park’s best-known sight is McWay Falls, where a waterfall drops into a small cove beside the Pacific, creating a striking oceanfront scene that is especially memorable from the overlook on Highway 1. It’s a compact but rewarding place to pause, take a short walk, and experience the rugged coastline that makes Big Sur famous.

History

The park was established in 1962 and named for Julia Pfeiffer Burns, a respected local pioneer who lived in the Big Sur area and helped preserve the region’s early community history. Her ranch land became part of the state park system, and the park now protects a stretch of coastline and canyon landscape that reflects both Big Sur’s natural beauty and its early settlement history.

Expert notes

• Expect limited parking and busy conditions at the main overlook, especially on weekends and during peak travel seasons.
• Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to walk the park’s trails, which can be uneven in places.
• Cell service can be unreliable in Big Sur, so download maps before you arrive.