Yahoo
Eucalyptus grove - monarch butterflies' winter home
Monarch butterflies clutter among eucalyptus branches
Monarch butterflies clutter among eucalyptus branches
Monarch butterflies clutter among eucalyptus branches
Monarch butterflies clutter among eucalyptus branches
Quiet signs are posted throughout the santuary
Breakfast is on
Monarch generations' migration paths
Entrance to monarch wintering sanctuary
Monarch butterflies clutter among eucalyptus branches
Monarch Butterfly Natural Preserve Nature & Wildlife Area ·$

The Natural Bridges State Beach is a good place to take a much deserved break from your daily life and just slow down. The beach and its turquoise waters are home to many a marine species such as crabs, wildflowers and more, in addition to birds, seals and otters. If you're lucky, you may even spot a whale in the deep waters in the distance. The beach also features designated picnic areas where visitors can unwind as they bask in the beauty and serenity of their surrounds. 

Website: parks.ca.gov

Phone: (831) 423-4609

Open now

  • Fri 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

2531 W Cliff Dr, Natural Bridges State Beach Santa Cruz, CA 95060 ·2339.50 mi

Is this your business? Verify your listing

Amenities

  • Family friendly
  • Accessible
4.5
51 reviews
5 star
30 4 star
15 3 star
5 2 star
1 1 star
0
Tripadvisor traveler Freedom33359510567 06/21/25

June is not a big butterfly month, but the habitat is a beautiful, informational, brief walk on a wooden board walkway. So interesting. We saw a few people at spots along the way, sitting and visiting. It is so calm and peaceful. Worth the visit - then enjoy Natural Bridges Park.

More
Tripadvisor traveler Sybille C 05/03/22

Could be advertised with better signage, but a place to visit for as long as we have these beautiful monarchs

More
Tripadvisor traveler oldjgw 01/23/22

The butterflies were back in great numbers. We've hunted Monarchs for years up and down the coast and this was one of the best sightings. Hopefully they will be back next year

More
Tripadvisor traveler 496pf 12/23/21

I heard that Monarchs migrate here over winter and was very excited to visit. The day was chilly and overcast, so the butterflies were mainly hanging in clusters from the trees to keep warm, but it was still exciting to see so many in one place, and we were lucky to experience a few wandering Monarchs up close. Would love to go back on a sunnier day, the park ranger said alot more would be flying around if the sun was out.

More
Tripadvisor traveler jonathancchan 11/28/20

Come by here between October and February to see the migrating monarch butterflies! There is a small visitor's center you can visit, but otherwise take the trail down to the grove to get the best views of the butterflies. There are plenty of educational signs along the way, and pre-pandemic there were guides and docents at the end. Bring your binoculars if you have them!

More
Advertisement
Mobilize your Website
View Site in Mobile | Classic
Share by: