The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is waving a red flag for ocean enthusiasts, cautioning against water activities at several LA County beaches. Officials have identified heightened bacterial levels that surpass health standards in these areas. Avid surfers, swimmers, and beachgoers are advised to steer clear from the impacted zones until the advisory is lifted.
Among the affected beaches are popular spots such as Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey and the entire swim area surrounding Santa Monica Pier, according to the County of Los Angeles, California. The implication of these warnings is no secret to locals who frequent the waves: steer to absolutely avoid immersing yourself in ocean waters within 100 yards of these regions.
Other areas flagged for caution include Outer and Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, with recommendations applying to the entire swim area at Inner Cabrillo and a 100-yard perimeter at Outer. Manhattan, Hermosa, and Redondo Beach Piers also fall under this advisory, as do the vicinity around several storm drains that dot the coastline—including those at Venice Beach, Dockweiler State Beach, and others.
Beach areas newly cleared of warnings include the Topsail Street extension in Venice, allowing water enthusiasts to once again enjoy the surf and sand there. In stark contrast to the closures, it's a reminder that these advisories can and do change, to frequently check for updates.
For those looking to get the most current information on beach conditions, LA County offers a 24-hour hotline at 1-800-525-5662. For a complete list of affected areas or to view a map of the current advisories, the Department of Public Health urges the public to visit PublicHealth.LACounty.gov/Beach/.
