Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, Pacific Grove

The Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary in Pacific Grove is a peaceful spot all times of year, and especially magical when butterflies flitter about Nov-Feb. Tall trees of all different sorts, and smaller trees with abundant flowers, make this a special place. When the sun is shining you're more likely to see butterflies, who prefer the warmth. Because this area is so sheltered, butterflies enjoy its windstill serenity. It's nice to see all the families and people admiring this spot.

Very near is Point Pinos Lighthouse, which you should visit while you're here! It is a sweet little lighthouse that is so well cared for and not musty like other lighthouses. Here you will find a garden full of flowers, and views of the golf course greens, white dunes, and blue sea. It's safer to drive to the lighthouse from the butterfly grove because there is no sidewalk between the two.
After, go for a walk on the coastal trail that offers spectacular views. You can park just minutes from here at the end of Asilomar Ave, where it meets Ocean View Blvd. Then walk in either direction for miles. The sights are incredible, especially on a sunny day! If you walk east, you will be on the Perkins Park Coastal Trail, walking 1.2 miles to Lovers Point Park, and then 1.2 miles further to Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. If you walk west, you will be on the Asilomar Coastal Trail, walking 1.8 miles to Asilomar State Beach.

Directions

Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary is located at 250 Ridge Rd, and you can also enter at 257 Grove Acre Ave, Pacific Grove. You can park up against the red building where it says Sanctuary Parking, at 250 Ridge Rd. Or park your car along Grove Acre Ave- this is more difficult.
Entrance is free. Open daily 8-5.

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