It’s an exciting time of year for many Santa Barbara residents, as the Monarch butterflies migrate to Goleta each November through February and this amazing sight can be best viewed at the Goleta Butterfly Grove. The site is open sunrise to sunset with no admission fee, but the City of Goleta does accept donations to support the Monarch Butterfly Docent Program.  The grove is adjacent to the Sperling Preserve on the Ellwood Mesa. The Ellwood Mesa open space includes 137 acres of natural terrain with designated trails and beach access.

For those wanting to learn the history and ecology of the Monarch Butterfly and the history of the Goleta Butterfly Grove, there is a Santa Barbara Land Trust Event coming November 19th @9:00am-11:00am 

Monarch Viewing + Ecology Talk

Info: Come with your kids for a fun time exploring the Coronado Butterfly Preserve and view the monarch clusters at one of the largest overwintering sites in California. Regional Coordinator for the Xerces Society and former Docent Coordinator for the City of Goleta, Charis Van der Heide, will give a presentation on the ecology and natural history of this well sought after species. Stay for a picnic lunch or to explore the adjacent Ellwood Bluffs. Children must be accompanied by parent or guardian.

Free to members. General public: $20/adult. Free for kids 12 years and under. Registration required.

Are you a current member? Contact Jennifer Stroh to register.