HOME Travel Guide Common Sense Travel
decorative font style
    Travel >> Holiday Travel >  >> Travel Notes

McWay Falls at Sunrise in Big Sur: The Best Time for Stunning Photos

McWay Falls in Big Sur is an iconic California landmark that belongs on every traveler's bucket list. The ideal time to photograph its beauty? Sunrise, hands down.

On our Thanksgiving camping trip to Big Sur, my friends thought I was crazy for setting my alarm just before 6:00 AM. Little did we know, nature—and a garbage truck—had other plans.

After campfire stories and drinks until midnight, my 5:50 AM alarm hit hard. Tempted to snooze, I pushed on, determined not to miss a sunrise shot of McWay Falls at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park.

Just as I settled back down, a massive truck rumbled in, backup beeps echoing behind our Fernwood Resort campsite. "Alright, Scott, time to rise!"

The 20-minute drive flew by, even half-asleep. It was worth every second—the uncrowded overlook offered a serene contrast to our previous midday visit years ago.

Have you captured McWay Falls at sunrise? Share your tips below!

Big Sur, California Road Trip Guide

How to Choose the Best Travel Camera

The Ultimate Packing Checklist for Campers

Travel Notes
  • Discover 6 Cozy Cabins in New York for Your Perfect Winter Escape

    You don't have to shelter yourself at home from frigid air this winter. Hunker down with a smile in the coziness of a cabin with a view, a fire, and your favorite people (or snuggle solo). New York has no shortage of unique rentals across the state. Here are six cabin getaways you won't want to miss out on this season. Updated: 11/08/2021Fisherman's Cottage in Woodstock Credit: Glamping HubWoodstock has 

  • -

    As one of the fastest growing cities in the country, visitors are drawn to Seattle for good food, abundant culture, and year-round attractions. A mecca for outdoorsy folk that have a soft spot for the arts, sciences and culinary exploits; Seattle is quickly becoming a favorite weekend getaway for the girls or guys. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite hotspots by neighborhood (that are really recommended for everyone) so you can plan the perfect trip for whoever you’re with.  

  • Curate Your Ideal Outfits for Orlando: Fashion Tips from a Top Influencer

    Instagram influencer Katrina Dandridge shares three perfect outfits from The Mall at Millenia (pictured) for the ultimate Orlando getaway. Planning a vacation often reveals a closet full of uncertainty—nothing feels right for the adventures ahead. A spontaneous shopping trip can rescue that dilemma. My recent visit to The Mall at Millenia was focused on finding three fresh looks for an Orlando getaway. With a blend of exclusive brands and a curated selection of apparel, the mall offers the perf