The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is sending out a wave of warnings to beachgoers eager to dive into the Pacific's embrace, several popular beaches are now flagged with ocean water use warnings. If you're planning to spend your days at Venice Beach, Marina Del Rey, or a handful of others along the county's coast, be advised to steer clear of taking the plunge or catching waves in these areas due to elevated bacterial levels found in the water.
Specifically targeted by the warning are certain stretches around storm drains and piers: the Windward storm drain at Venice Beach, the entirety of Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, Walnut Creek at Paradise Cove, and several others have been earmarked as no-go zones for anyone considering a swim, surf or even casual wade. The bacteria levels in these locations are officially exceeding health standards. Additionally, you'll want to avoid Santa Monica Pier and the pier at Manhattan Beach as both have a 100-yard buffer of caution taped around them by health officials.
It's not all bleak on the beachfront, however, as there is some good news for the sandy shores near Pena Creek at Las Tunas County Beach and Las Flores Creek at Las Flores State Beach, both of which now boast clean bills of healthy water quality levels meeting State standards, so adventurers and relaxation-seekers alike have options when it comes to finding a clean and safe spot to enjoy the ocean's roar.
For those who require round-the-clock updates, the County keeps a beach closure hotline available 24 hours a day at 1-800- 525-5662 or through their website to view maps and get more details on beach conditions, keeping your beach day plans crisp and clear of any unwelcome surprises.
