Bathers and beach bums, take heed before you plunge into the Pacific near certain Los Angeles County beaches. The Department of Public Health has dished out warnings like a bad weather forecast for popular spots due to potentially harmful levels of bacteria detected in ocean waters. Areas highlighted by health officials include Santa Monica Pier and Escondido State Beach, where a swim could leave you with more than just a wet towel.
The advisories, which were broadcasted across the internet, suggest avoiding ocean contact something fierce within specified distances from several discharge points. This includes a 100-yard radius around Santa Monica Pier and Santa Monica Canyon Creek's outpost at Will Rogers State Beach. Also on the blacklist are the full swim areas at Escondido Creek, Sweetwater Canyon Storm Drain, and Mothers Beach.
According to the guidance on PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/, the no-go zones for aquatic activities come down to high bacterial levels that could pose a risk to public health. Recent tests have shown the water quality at these locations fails to meet the necessary state standards for safe ocean frolicking.
It's not all doom and gloom for those looking to catch a wave or paddle in the surf, however. The Public Health Department's recent samples brought sunnier news for Walnut Creek at Paradise Cove and Inner Cabrillo Boat Launch Beach, where water quality waved a green flag, meeting the state's clean bill of health. In these areas, restrictions have been relaxed, and water enthusiasts can return to their saltwater fun.
Stay informed and avoid the risks of diving into dubious waters by dialing into the county's beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662, which offers 24-hour updates. It seems like playing it safe is the name of the game—so if you're unsure about your beach day destination's status, make the call or click before you dip.
