Monarch Butterfly Grove

When is the best time to see the monarch butterflies?

Peak season is January through February when butterfly populations are highest. Visit mid-morning (10am-noon) on sunny days when butterflies are most active and flying between trees. Cloudy or cold mornings mean butterflies stay clustered and still on branches—beautiful but less dramatic. The grove is open late October through early March, but numbers peak in mid-winter.

Is the Monarch Butterfly Grove free?

Yes! Admission is completely free. Free parking is available at the grove entrance off Highway 1. Volunteer docents often lead free educational walks on weekends during peak season, sharing insights into monarch migration and conservation efforts. Donations to support grove maintenance are appreciated but not required.

How close can I get to the butterflies?

You’ll walk on paved paths through the eucalyptus grove where butterflies cluster on tree branches. While you stay on designated paths to protect the habitat, butterflies often cluster on low branches just a few feet away. Bring binoculars for close-up views without disturbing them. On warm, sunny days, butterflies fly between trees and may land near you.

Is it kid-friendly and stroller accessible?

Absolutely! The grove has paved paths suitable for strollers and wheelchairs, though some areas have slight uneven terrain. Kids love seeing thousands of orange-and-black butterflies clustered on trees. Plan for a 30-60 minute visit—perfect attention span for younger children. Educational signage helps explain the monarch migration story in kid-friendly terms.