The butterfly world has known for centuries that Santa Cruz is a great place to spend the winter. Every year about this time, thousands of monarch butterflies flit up from Mexico to the beachside eucalyptus groves in Santa Cruz.
Related • Falling for Santa Cruz - Friday • Falling for Santa Cruz - Saturday • Falling for Santa Cruz - SundayWhat draws them has been called a scientific mystery― but we think it might be some of the same factors that make the town such a nice spot for wintering humans. With summer crowds gone, it's prime time for beach strolling. Plus, Santa Cruz's downtown is packed with great restaurants and shops.
So take a nod from the insects and head to Santa Cruz, 70 miles south of San Francisco. Watch the waves, sip some wine, and welcome the town's annual winged visitors.
