McWay Falls View Point
An iconic, easy-to-enjoy viewpoint with a famous waterfall and dramatic coastal scenery. Great for families who want a short stop with big payoff and minimal effort.
McWay Falls View Point is one of Big Sur’s most iconic roadside overlooks, where you can look down on a dramatic waterfall dropping toward a small, sheltered cove beside the Pacific Ocean. It’s a classic stop on Highway 1 for travelers who want a short, scenic pause with sweeping coastal views and an easy photo opportunity. The viewpoint is especially appealing for families because it offers a memorable Big Sur landscape without requiring a long hike.
History
The viewpoint is associated with Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, which was created to protect this stretch of the Big Sur coast and the surrounding redwood and canyon landscape. McWay Falls itself is named for the McWay family, early landowners in the area, and the overlook became widely known as a signature Big Sur vista after the land was preserved as part of the state park system.
Expert notes
- Stay on marked paths and overlooks; the area is protected and the cliff edges can be hazardous.
- Expect a short, easy stop rather than a full beach access visit, since the cove below is not generally reachable from the viewpoint.
- Bring layers, as coastal wind and fog can make the overlook feel much cooler than inland Big Sur.
More things to do in Big Sur, CA, USA
McWay CoveA coastal cove area associated with one of Big Sur’s most famous waterfall viewpoints. It’s a must-see scenic stop for ocean-and-cliff views.
Keyhole Arch at Pfeiffer BeachA striking natural arch on Pfeiffer Beach, famous for sunset photography and unique coastal scenery. It’s one of Big Sur’s most distinctive outdoor attractions.
Valley ViewA scenic viewpoint that is easy to visit and offers a pleasant outdoor break for families. It’s a simple, low-effort stop with classic Big Sur views.
Partington CoveA classic Big Sur scenic spot with a short hike to a picturesque cove. It’s especially appealing for dramatic coastal views.
Garrapata State ParkA beautiful coastal state park with bluff-top trails, beaches, and sweeping ocean vistas. It’s one of the best scenic outdoor areas in the region.
Julia Pfeiffer Burns State ParkIconic Big Sur state park with coastal trails, redwoods, and the famous McWay Falls area nearby. Great for classic scenery and hiking.