Monarch Butterfly Grove
About the Monarchs
Each year, thousands of vibrant orange and black Western Monarch Butterflies flock to Pismo Beach, seeking shelter from the freezing northern winters.
Monarchs create dense clusters of butterflies, one below another, forming a shingle effect among the trees. This provides shelter from the rain and cold to create warmth for the group. The weight of the clusters keeps the butterflies from dislodging in the wind.
The Western Monarchs that visit Pismo Beach are a special generation that migrate long distances to overwinter and have a life span of six months. Some scientists speculate that the insects are equipped with genetic homing systems that lead them from their summer sites back to their winter locations.
Each fall, Western Monarch Butterflies make the journey to the California coast seeking warmer temperatures. The Pismo Beach site has long been one of their favorite wintering homes, with historical numbers being some of the highest in the state.
From late October through February, these butterflies cluster in the limbs of eucalyptus trees near an estuary that flows to the oceans. This peaceful, accessible grove is just off Highway 1 at the southern edge of Pismo Beach.
Key information:
- Open year-round, dusk to dawn (weather permitting)
- Monarch season is October – February
- Parking and entry are free.
Learning More While Here
The Monarch Mercantile Trailer, operated by the Central Coast State Parks Association (CCSPA), is open daily from 11 AM to 4 PM. They have extended hours during peak season (October–February) from 10 AM to 4 PM.
You can find hundreds of goodies for purchase, including books, apparel, souvenirs, and more. Purchases help support educational and conservation efforts.
The docent talks are offered during the peak season on weekends at noon, depending on docent availability and weather.
Telescopes are usually set up to help visitors get a close-up view of the butterfly clusters high in the trees.
Throughout the grove, you’ll find signs with QR codes linking to free educational videos—watch them on-site or at home. View the full video playlist here: YouTube Playlist – Oceano Dunes District
How to Get to the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove
Address: 445 South Dolliver Street, Pismo Beach, CA 93449
The Monarch Butterfly Grove is part of Pismo State Beach and is located along Highway 1 (Dolliver Street) between Pismo Beach and Grover Beach.
Directions:
- From the South (Grover Beach): Take Grand Avenue west until you reach Highway 1. At the stoplight, turn right (north). The Monarch Grove will be on your left-hand side shortly after.
- From the North (Pismo Beach): Drive south through town along Dolliver Street (Highway 1). Pass the North BeachCampground—the Monarch Grove will be on your right-hand side just beyond it.
Follow the Butterfly Medallion
Watch for the Monarch Butterly Medallions along the coast from the Pismo Pier to the Monarch Butterly Grove where you can view the Western Monarchs.
Important Notes:
- Parking is very limited, so walking or biking in is encouraged if possible. Visitors may not park inside North Beach
- Please help protect this natural habitat by taking all trash with you.
- School Group Visits: All school group visits require reservations. More information here: School Group Information
- Interested in Volunteering? We’d love your help. Contact the Oceano Dunes District at (805) 474-2663 for details.
