Welcome to a breathtaking coastal escape at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. It is perched along California’s dramatic Big Sur coastline. The park is about 37 miles south of Carmel-by-the-Sea. This iconic 3,762-acre park preserves one of the world’s only tidefall beaches, ancient redwood groves, and rugged ridgelines—offering a rare blend of coastal artistry and wilderness adventure.
What Makes Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park Unique
This park is home to McWay Falls—an 80-foot waterfall cascading directly into the Pacific Ocean—plus soaring 300-foot-old redwoods nestled against steep canyons and granite ridges. Named for pioneer rancher Julia Pfeiffer Burns, the landscape holds both ecological splendor and human legacy, all set within protected marine sanctuary boundaries.
Top Activities & Amenities
🥾 Hiking Trails & Scenic Overlooks
The easy 0.6-mile Overlook Trail leads to a sealed viewpoint of McWay Cove and the waterfall. A few higher-elevation trails east of Highway 1 traverse ridges and redwood-draped canyons—though some sections are closed for restoration. Nearby Partington Cove, just north, offers a rugged, canyon-hugging 1.5 mile trail that ends at a windswept sea arch.
🌊 Waterfall & Tidefall Viewing
McWay Falls is visible year-round from an accessible overlook; high tide creates a dramatic splash into the ocean, while low tide reveals sandy cove floors. The climb down to the beach is prohibited—stay behind the protective fence for your safety.
🐦 Wildlife Viewing & Bird Watching
Keep your binoculars ready for pelicans, cormorants, gulls and raptors along sea cliffs. Inland canyons shelter deer, bobcats and foxes. Tidepools at Partington Cove reveal sea stars and crabs during low tides.
🧺 Picnic Areas & Restrooms
The day-use parking area features vault restrooms, potable water spigots, and shaded picnic tables—ideal for seaside meals before or after hikes.
🏕️ Environmental Campsites
The park offers two hike-in-only environmental campsites on a bluff south of McWay Cove. Each site has a fire ring, picnic table, and vault toilet—but no water or hookups. You’ll descend a steep trail (~100 yards) to reach camp, so pack light and plan ahead. Reservations are essential and fill quickly.
🐋 Wildlife Watching & Ocean Access
Whale migration is visible from overlooks in winter and spring. Though swimming isn’t allowed at McWay Cove, nearby beaches like Pfeiffer Beach and Sand Dollar Beach offer shoreline access for wading and viewing marine life.
🎓 Interpretive Programs & Environmental Education
Ranger-led programs include guided waterfall walks, geology talks, and seasonal beach cleanups. Self-guided brochures and kiosk exhibits explain the park’s ecology, history, and marine sanctuary protections.
Visitor Tips
- Fees & Hours: Day-use parking is $10/vehicle; environmental camping is $30/night (discounts for seniors, veterans, disabled). Open sunrise to sunset; camping check-in at 2 pm, checkout at noon.
- Parking: Limited spaces—arrive early, especially midday or on weekends.
- Pets: No dogs allowed on trails, campsites, or in overlooks.
- Trail Closures: Beach and waterfall base are off-limits. Some hilltop trails remain closed—check park alerts before visiting.
- Water: Bring camping water and hike-in supplies—only potable spigot is at day-use area.
- Fire Safety: Campfires in provided rings only; bring your own firewood; no gathering on site.
- Cell Service: Spotty or non-existent. Download maps and alerts in advance.
- Weather: Coastal fog common in mornings; afternoon sun and fog burns off. Dress in layers.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Sunrise on the McWay Falls overlook reveals ocean mists and golden light—an unforgettable experience. Visit in late winter or early spring to catch migrating gray whales offshore. Camping offers serene seaside nights; fall asleep to surf lullabies under star-swept skies. For a hidden treat, hike north to Partington Cove’s sea arch at low tide—less crowded, with dramatic coastal photo ops and tidepool exploration.