I was very on the fence about this hike since I’ve been road tripping/camping for nearly 2 months and it’s long and I’m not in the best shape. So many people said it was worth the work and I AGREE. Wow, what a view. And the hike itself is scenic, too! About 1/3-1/2 is shady and there was a nice breeze so it wasn’t bad even when I started at 90° in the mid afternoon. I started the hike around 4:30pm and I think that was the perfect time- got to see golden hour on the beach with the waterfall, but also made it back to the parking lot just as it got dark. It took me about 4 hours with the short cut, but I hiked there leisurely with lots of picture breaks and enjoyed the beach/rinsed in the waterfall for some time. I saw about 6-8 people/couples/groups coming back as I was going, and there were only 2 other people on the beach. Parking wasn’t an issue- it has a large lot and trash, recycling, and a bathroom. There were flowers blooming throughout and the sun rays shining through the trees and Spanish moss was just so romantic (even alone!) The approximate location of the shortcut is marked on my picture of the map- someone made an arrow of rocks on the ground to help you locate it as well. The shortcut turns the 13 mile hike into about a 9 mile hike. The shortcut is steep just at the last park to get to the waterfall but I took it there and back and was okay! I definitely hiking boots- it’s very dusty and the steep part is sandy so good grips help. Additionally, I recommend pants as the shortcut has some overgrowth including some poison oak. I went in a tank top and my arms seem to be fine, but I also think I may just not be allergic to poison oak. Overall one of my favorite hikes to date- but my butt/thighs are definitely a bit sore!