Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

The park was named after Julia Pfeiffer Burns, who was a cattle ranch owner in the Big Sur area. There is also an excellent view of the Big Sur coastline in the other direction. A major attraction at this site, McWay Falls is an incredibly scenic waterfall. McWay Creek drops 80 ft. off a cliff onto the beach nestled in a pretty little cove. The view is stunning. Fed from underground springs on McWay Creek, the waterfall flows year-round. The path continues past the waterfall a short distance to some ruins of an old stone “waterfall house”. The best photo opportunities of McWay Falls are at sunset.

This beautiful park features redwoods, conifers, oaks, sycamores, cottonwoods and willows – plus open meadows. Wildlife includes deer, squirrels, raccoons and birds, such as water ouzels and belted kingfishers. Hikers can enjoy the many scenic trails, including a self-guided nature trail. The park is also a popular camping destination.