Pacific Grove Transforms into a Monarch Mecca

Each year from October to February flights of Monarch butterflies descend upon the quaint town of Pacific Grove. The Monarch Grove Sanctuary, located on Lighthouse Avenue and Ridge Road, is the hub of this annual convention.

Pacific Grove's Monarch Grove Sanctuary is located on Ridge Road off of Lighthouse Avenue in downtown Pacific Grove. It is open everyday from sunrise to sundown and is free. It is highly advised for visitors to visit the sanctuary while a Museum sanctuary Docent is present to answer questions show the monarchs in viewing scopes. The Monarch Butterflies arrive in October to cluster together on the pines and eucalyptus trees of the Sanctuary. The monarch migration to Pacific Grove is so inspiring that Pacific Grove is nicknamed "Butterfly Town, U.S.A." The community has always welcomed the butterflies and sought their protection. Citizens of Pacific Grove voted to create an additional tax to create the Monarch Grove Sanctuary, led by dedicated volunteers. The Pacific Grove Police Department continues to enforce strict regulations that prohibit the "molestation of butterflies." The fine? $1,000