The Monarch Butterflies of Pismo Beach

There are several butterflies in this photo--can you spot some of them?

When we were in California earlier this month, Darlene took Kate and me to see the Monarch butterflies at Pismo Beach. Kylie and Eric came, too. The Pismo Beach Monarch Grove is a very popular vacation spot for these butterflies. I was just reading on the Web site that from late October to February, some 25,000 Monarchs come here to winter. Who knew?

I wasn't sure what to expect when Darlene mentioned taking the kids to a butterfly grove. She said it was by the beach, so I thought, "Why not?" Sounded like a fun afternoon to me--and it was! We parked across the street, which is very busy (so be careful if you go). When we walked up, I think there was an educational talk going on. I tried to walk past as quietly as possible with a 2-year-old--hahaha!

For some reason, I pictured a bunch of butterflies flying around--perhaps even swarming. Or maybe even under a big net. But there they were, all kinds of Monarchs, up in the trees in clusters. Darlene had to point them out to me because at first glance from the ground, they kind of look like part of the vegetation. Once I knew what I was looking at, it was a pretty remarkable sight!

If you are in the area, you should definitely check this place out (and this is coming from a person who--let's face it--is not that into nature). LOL! The grove is free to visit, and the beach is a brief walk away. Bring your binoculars to get an even better view of the butterflies. Great and very educational outing for kids, too!


Eric gets a closer look.


So what is everyone looking at?


Do you see the butterflies? Looks like just another picture of some trees or something, right?


Do you see those clusters that look like leaves? Those are Monarch butterflies!


A little more zoom--look at all those butterflies!


Pretty amazing, right?


An alternate view ...


Ground rules--the butterflies thank you!