McWay Falls

Big Sur · CA

When to go

BestGoodFairPoorClosedCrowds (quiet → packed)

Time: When the overlook reopens: late afternoon toward sunset for warmer cove light. · When the overlook reopens on busy weekends: arrive near the 8 a.m. park opening for parking.
Avoid: The Waterfall Overlook Trail is closed; also avoid Highway 1 closures, storms, dense fog, wildfire smoke, and any attempt to enter the fenced beach or falls area.

Maps & links

Park mapparks.ca.gov
Alerts & conditionsparks.ca.gov

Good to know

Bring

Windproof layer
Sun protection
Water and snacks
Sturdy shoes with grip
Charged phone and offline map

Food & breaks

Bring food and water; no café or store is listed at the waterfall.
Use park picnic areas if open and pack out all trash.
Restrooms and drinking water are listed in the day-use area.

Skip it if

Skip it as a waterfall stop until California State Parks reopens the Waterfall Overlook Trail; there is no legal substitute viewpoint or beach access.