Monarch Grove Sanctuary
The wintering ground of the monarch butterflies in Pacific Grove, known as “Butterfly Town.” From autumn through winter, thousands of monarchs cluster on eucalyptus and pine trees, a spectacle not to be missed.
Pacific Grove is known as “Butterfly Town, USA.” From October to February each year, migrating monarch butterflies overwinter in this small grove, hanging in clusters from eucalyptus and Monterey pine branches. On warm, sunny midday hours, they flutter through the air. The sanctuary is free to visit, and on winter weekends volunteers set up telescopes and give talks. Monarch numbers fluctuate widely from year to year, though they have recovered somewhat in recent years. Please do not touch the butterflies and keep your voice down.
Opening hours
Sunrise to sunset
Nearby sights
- Point Pinos Lighthouse
- Asilomar State Beach
- Lovers Point Park
- Monterey Bay Aquarium
- Cannery Row
- Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail
- Monterey State Historic Park
- Old Fisherman's Wharf