1. McWay Falls
Ranked first on my list, McWay Falls is a beautiful and iconic waterfall located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway in Big Sur, California.
This 80-foot waterfall is uniquely one of the few waterfalls in the world that flows directly into the ocean.
McWay Falls spills year-round from McWay Creek in the Santa Lucia Mountains into an inaccessible cove along the Pacific Ocean.
The area around McWay Falls has a variety of natural beauties, from its cliffside perch with panoramic ocean views to the native Monterey pines and coastal live oaks.
There’s an easy, well-maintained trail, the Overlook Trail, that leads to a viewing platform from where you can see the falls. This 0.64-mile round-trip hike is more like a scenic walk, making it accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities.
How To Get To McWay Falls Trail
To get there, we searched “McWay Waterfall Trail, Big Sur, CA 93920” on Google Maps. The trailhead is on the east side of Highway 1.
Once you get to the outlook, there is only about a 50 ft. area to view the waterfall. Part of the trail is closed due to unsafe conditions.
Keep in mind, much of Big Sur gets a heavy marine layer and cold weather at times, so it’s best to always bring layers while hiking here. Check out my article on fog in Big Sur for more information about the weather and the best times to visit.
Parking and Cost
There’s a parking lot in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park at the actual trailhead but costs $10 (cash). When we went, we were lucky and grabbed a spot right on the side of Highway 1, along with many other cars so we didn’t have to pay the fee.
However, roadside parking is usually really busy and requires you to parallel park with traffic behind you, so it can be a bit tricky.
Where we parked to the trailhead was only about a 3-5 minute walk.
“Head out on this 1.2-mile loop trail near Big Sur, California. Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of 32 min to complete. This is a very popular area for birding and walking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. You’ll need to leave pups at home — dogs aren’t allowed on this trail.”
AllTrails
2. Salmon Creek Falls
Salmon Falls cascades down a steep canyon wall that happens to be a part of the Santa Lucia Mountain range. The waterfall pours down, creating a swimming hole that visitors are known to swim in.
Visitors take the Salmon Creek Trail, a 0.3-mile in-and-out hike. This trail is open at all times of the year.
My family and I went here a few years ago and we loved it. I even went in the water. Definitely cold, but beautiful.
Just be careful with the rocks. It’s important to exercise caution and be aware of local conditions and safety guidelines. Always check the weather and surf reports before swimming, and never swim alone or in areas where there are signs of dangerous currents or undertows.
3. Limekiln Falls
The waterfall inside of Limekiln State Park cascades about 100 feet down a steep, fern-draped rock face, emptying into a shallow pool within a lush, mossy glen.
This particular spot in the park offers a stunning contrast between the serene, dense green forest and the powerful rushing water of the waterfall.
The trail, which is approximately 1.5 miles round trip, is rated as moderate through verdant groves of redwood trees and across several bridges over Limekiln Creek. While the path is generally not too steep, the last section towards the falls can get slippery, so hike with caution!
This state park is famous for its towering redwoods, the ruins of lime kilns, and, of course, the stunning waterfall itself.
The Pfieffer Falls Trail is temporarily closed at the moment due to recent storms. Check California State Parks website for more information.
4. Pfieffer Falls
Pfieffer Falls is a 60-foot tall waterfall located inside the forested section of Pfieffer Big Sur State Park.
The trail to reach the falls is called Pfieffer Falls Trail and is a 1.5-mile loop through a gorge filled with old-growth redwoods.
The hike is moderately challenging, making it suitable for a wide range of fitness levels from families with children to full-on hikers.
In rainy seasons, the falls become more dramatic, offering a captivating experience.
The Pfieffer Falls Trail is temporarily closed at the moment due to recent storms. However, you can still reach the waterfall from the Valley View Side Trail. For more information, please visit California State Parks website.
5. Last Chance Falls
This waterfall, along with a few smaller ones is all along the Santa Lucia Trail in Los Padres National Forest. This waterfall is the tallest waterfall on this list, at around 120 feet tall.
The trail to the waterfall is strenuous, a winding, sometimes precipitous path that deters all but the most avid hikers. Here is the map on AllTrails. It’s a 15.3-mile hike.
The journey to Last Chance Falls is a trek filled with towering redwoods, mountains, and cliffs that will make you feel like you’re in the movie Avatar.
Can You Swim in Big Sur? (Top 6 Spots)
Unlike Southern California, swimming at the beaches in Big Sur is not recommended year-round. This is because of the dangers the water presents such as strong currents, cold waters that do not rise above 68 degrees, and rocks.
Don’t worry though, you can still swim at the beaches in the hotter months with the right water conditions. Not to mention, Big Sur has many swimming holes (and even rivers) to choose from. Here are some of my favorites of all of the above, even some beaches.
1. Big Sur River Gorge
Located inside Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, the River Gorge is the most popular swimming hole in Big Sur.
The swimming area consists of a large swimming hole with a little beach, surrounded by boulders. It is possible to jump in the water from rocks lower to the ground, snorkel, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery. The deepest part of the water reaches around 10 feet.
To reach the swimming hole, there is a trail that is 1.2 miles there and back. The trailhead is in the State Park right next to Lot 3, between campsites #111 and #112. If you follow the river upstream on the right side, you can then cross over towards the end.
2. Salmon Falls
Salmon Creek Falls is not only a waterfall but a natural swimming hole. Visitors take the Salmon Creek Trail, a 0.3-mile in-and-out hike. This trail is open at all times of the year.
My family and I went here a few years ago and we loved it. Definitely cold, but beautiful.
Just be careful with the rocks. It’s important to exercise caution and be aware of local conditions and safety guidelines. Always check the weather and surf reports before swimming, and never swim alone or in areas where there are signs of dangerous currents or undertows.
Whether you’re looking to take a dip, or simply take in the stunning views of the falls, Salmon Falls and the surrounding area is a must-visit destination for water lovers.
3. Pfeiffer Beach
Pfeiffer Beach is a popular spot for swimming in Big Sur. It is a secluded beach with turquoise waters and purple sand, which makes it a unique destination.
One of the highlights of Pfeiffer Beach is the Keyhole Arch, a natural rock formation that frames the sunset perfectly. Visitors can take a short hike to the arch and watch the sun go down behind the ocean.
Be sure to check water conditions before entering the water.
4. Sand Dollar Beach
Sand Dollar Beach is known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear water. It is located about 15 miles south of the town of Big Sur and is easily accessible from Highway 1.
The beach is a favorite spot for surfers, as the waves can get quite large and powerful. However, it is also a great place for swimming, especially during low tide when the water is calm and shallow.
Be sure to check water conditions before entering the water.
5. Andrew Molera State Park
Andrew Molera State Park is a popular destination in Big Sur. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, and camping. The park is located along the Big Sur River, which is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
The beach part of the park is wide and sandy, and there are plenty of places to spread out and relax. Visitors can swim in the ocean, play in the surf, or simply soak up the sun.
In addition to the beach, visitors can also swim in the Big Sur River. The river is relatively shallow and slow-moving, making it a safe spot for swimming. There are also several small waterfalls and pools along the river that visitors can explore.
For those who want to explore the park further, there are several hiking trails that lead to other swimming spots. The Creamery Meadow Trail leads to a secluded swimming hole, while the Ridge Trail offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
Be sure to check water conditions before entering the water.
6. Tanbark Trail and Tin House Trail
I hiked this trail a year ago and stumbled upon a creek to the left of the trail about half of a mile in.
Literally, my favorite spot I’ve ever swam. It’s more of a dunk yourself in the water kind of experience because of how cold it is, but I have never felt so relaxed.
If you are looking to see redwoods while visiting, I recommend going here. The trail begins with the beautiful creek, redwood trees, and ends with views of the ocean. The whole thing made me feel like I was in a fairy tale.
Tip: Park along Highway 1, basically at the Partington Cove trailhead. Instead of going towards the ocean, you go inland to the other trailhead named Tanbark Trail.
Best Hikes in Big Sur
Tanbark Trail & Tin House
I hiked this trail a year ago and can safely say it’s my favorite hike EVER.
If you are looking to see redwoods while visiting, I 100% recommend going here. The trail begins with the beautiful creek about half a mile in, huge redwood trees, and ends with views of the ocean. The whole thing made me feel like I was in a fairy tale.
The whole trail is a 6-mile loop, so be sure to bring lots of water.
Tip: Park along Highway 1, basically at the Partington Cove trailhead. Instead of going towards the ocean, you go inland to the other trailhead named Tanbark Trail.
Partington Cove is also a great trail to see redwoods.
Pfeiffer Falls Trail at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
One of the best ways to experience the towering redwoods at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park is by hiking the Pfeiffer Falls Trail. The trail is a moderate 1.4-mile loop that takes hikers through a lush forest of redwoods and alongside a babbling creek.
As hikers make their way along the trail, they’ll be surrounded by some of the largest and oldest redwood trees in the area, some of which are over 1,000 years old.
The highlight of the trail is Pfeiffer Falls, a 60-foot waterfall that drops into a small pool. Visitors can stop and take in the beauty of the falls before continuing on the trail, which winds its way back to the park’s main entrance.
Overall, the Pfeiffer Falls Trail is a must-do for anyone looking to experience the stunning redwoods of Big Sur. You can find the trail here on AllTrails.