Monarch butterflies migrate to Goleta each November through February and this amazing sight is 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. There is a portable restroom located at the parking lot.
Wearing sturdy shoes and bringing binoculars to maximize your visit is recommended. Please do not visit the grove when it is raining or while the ground is muddy from a recent storm. Natural trails and rough terrain make it difficult to access by wheelchair.
The grove is a little over a half mile from the parking lot and butterfly trail markers highlight the path.
