Monarch Butterflies Return to Pacific Grove this Fall
Every fall on the Monterey Peninsula, the charming seaside town of Pacific Grove transforms into a stage for one of nature’s most enchanting migrations. Beginning in October, thousands of monarch butterflies travel thousands of miles to their overwintering havens along the California coast. One of the favored stops is the Pacific Grove Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary, which earned Pacific Grove the nickname, “Butterfly Town, U.S.A.”
On cooler days, the monarch butterflies cluster in the branches of the grove’s eucalyptus, pine, and cypress trees to maintain their body temperature. On warmer days, visitors are treated to a magical show as the butterflies take flight among the trees. The monarch butterflies remain at the sanctuary from mid-October until February, when they continue their migration south. The butterfly population peaks at the sanctuary between late November and early December. Admission to the sanctuary is free.
Where to Stay in Pacific Grove
Gosby House Inn
Less than a mile from the butterfly sanctuary, the newly revamped Gosby House Inn is nestled in the heart of downtown Pacific Grove. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the 1887 Victorian underwent an inspired renovation in 2023 that blends old-world charm with a modern aesthetic. The handsome new guest rooms feature curated antiques and vintage elements paired with modern amenities, rich textiles, and custom furnishings.
On the main floor, the inn’s front parlor was reimagined as a warm and inviting speakeasy with soulful lighting and leather seating. Guests gather each afternoon to enjoy complimentary wine and savory bites in front of the black herringbone-tiled fireplace or at the high-top bar tables overlooking downtown Pacific Grove.
The inn serves a full breakfast each morning and freshly baked cookies throughout the day. Complimentary bicycles are available for riding the paths along the Monterey Bay and Asilomar State Beach.
Centrella Hotel
Built in 1889 and steeped in Victorian charm, the Centrella Hotel is a Historic Landmark located just steps from downtown Pacific Grove and Monterey Bay. It’s also less than a mile from the butterfly sanctuary. The striking, pale green Victorian features an inviting front porch and several outdoor seating areas nestled amid the courtyard gardens and cottages.
The hotel’s 26 guest rooms range from the King Loft on the top floor to cozy rooms throughout the main house to pet-friendly cottages lining the backyard gardens. Many of the rooms feature Victorian-era antique furnishings and clawfoot soaking tubs; some even offer peeks of the ocean.
In addition, a newly renovated model room showcases the alluring designs that the hotel team is working on for the rest of the property. The newly revamped Upstairs Queen Suite features an inspired spin on Victorian charm with modern amenities.
Seven Gables Inn
Perched on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, Seven Gables Inn is a romantic escape overlooking Lover’s Point and the Monterey Bay. Every room offers breathtaking views of waves pounding coastline, sea otters frolicking offshore, and whales spouting in the distance.
Classic and refined, Seven Gables Inn exudes a sophisticated Victorian heritage with period-perfect architectural details and furnishings. The inn’s 22 guest rooms are spread among the estate’s seven Victorian homes and cottages. All are luxuriously appointed, but each has its own unique allure with original stained-glass or beveled windows, crystal chandeliers, and fine antiques.
Wake up to a chef-prepared vegetarian breakfast in the oceanfront dining room and then go for a stroll along the oceanfront path. The butterfly sanctuary, downtown Pacific Grove, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Cannery Row are all less than a mile away. Each evening, enjoy pours of local wines during the inn’s evening wine reception.
Green Gables Inn
Built in 1888, the Green Gables Inn is a newly renovated Queen Anne Victorian with panoramic views of the Monterey Bay. The multi-gabled, oceanfront home is possibly the most iconic mansion lining Pacific Grove’s dramatic coastline.
In 2023, the inn completed an extensive transformation of its guestrooms and common spaces, adding a new level of sophistication to the property. The redesign sought to reflect the natural beauty of the sea while restoring the inn’s treasured architectural details. All 11 guestrooms were renovated with a serene, coastal-inspired color palette and paired with contemporary furnishings. Many of the rooms feature fireplaces, a spa tubs, and ocean views.
A stay at Green Gables Inn includes a full breakfast for two, afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres, freshly baked cookies, bicycles to borrow, and more. The inn is a short walk to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, and downtown Pacific Grove. The butterfly sanctuary is 1.4 miles away.