Monarch butterflies flock to Monterey County in October, settling in at forest groves to wait out the winter. Though the butterflies congregate in areas from Big Sur through Monterey, their best-known wintering-over spot is in Pacific Grove's Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary.
The Monarch butterflies that come to this region are a special generation of butterflies. While most Monarchs live only four to five weeks after they reach adulthood, the generation that overwinters in Monterey County lives up to six months. Even more incredible, scientists still aren't sure how each new migrating generation knows the way to warm weather spots.
Where to see Monarch Butterflies
Every October, thousands of butterflies make a stop in a Pacific Grove eucalyptus grove, the preferred Monarch butterfly habitat, during their migration to warmer climates. The butterflies hang in clusters from eucalyptus branches to maintain body temperature and the effect is stunning. Visitors come from miles around to take Monarch butterfly tours throughout the sanctuary.
The City of Pacific Grove created the butterfly sanctuary to preserve both this Monarch butterfly habitat and the opportunity to view this incredible natural display. The sanctuary is free and visitors are invited to visit, watch, admire and take Monarch butterfly photos and videos, so long as they don't touch. (Touching or interfering with a butterfly in any way is illegal in Pacific Grove–the fine is $1000). Monarchs stay in the Monarch butterfly grove from October until February when they continue their migration south.
Map and Directions
To find the Monarch Grove Butterfly Sanctuary, take Lighthouse Avenue to Ridge Road and find parking. The pathway to the Butterfly Sanctuary is tucked away next to the Butterfly Grove Inn's property and has a white picket fence on one side. The sanctuary is open year-round, but the best time to spot butterflies is from October through February. Admission is free.