Butterflies at the Botanical Garden

If you are passing through the South Bay, or if you have lived here for years but don’t do much exploring and need something fun to do, there is a beautiful spot on the hill of Palos Verdes, called the South Coast Botanic Garden.  Built on a former landfill, it was converted in 1961 to a garden that is truly exquisite. 

I have stopped by on many occasions – and finally bought a membership last month.  It’s a sprawling landscape with lots of acreage to ramble around – rose gardens, drought friendly plants, huge areas showcasing local foliage that thrives in the So Cal climate.  If you are a gardener – or a wanna be gardener– the Garden is inspiring and sparks ideas for your own yard.  Put on your walking shoes, bring your camera or phone and be prepared to take lots of photos.

I went there a few weeks ago and right now there is a very cool exhibit called “SOAR” – it’s an interactive butterfly enclosure.  These gorgeous tropical butterflies are from South America and are stunning.  For a nominal charge you can spend time hanging out with them, letting them land on your clothing or sip from a little nector cup.   You can just quietly stand and watch them flit around or feast on orange slices.  They are absolutely beautiful.  Note – SOAR ends at the end of August.

When you are done with the SOAR exhibit, check out the rest of the garden.  There are plenty of walking trails, monthly dog walks, summer concerts and other community events.   It’s a tranquil space that makes one feel like the big city is far away. Hope to see you there on one of the benches or trails.

South Coast Botanic Garden

Oh, and I have to add – I went with a very fun group of women – Gal Pals. We went out to brunch afterward at a fabulous crepe place. Love you ladies!