The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is urging the public to avoid swimming, surfing, and other ocean activities within 100 yards of the Santa Monica Pier after recent water tests showed elevated levels of bacteria.
These bacteria levels exceed state health standards and pose a serious risk, especially for those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions. Contact with contaminated water can lead to various illnesses, so officials are stressing the importance of staying out of the water in the affected area.
However, it’s not all bad news. The Department has lifted the advisory for Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach, where recent tests confirmed water quality is back within safe limits. So, while Santa Monica is temporarily off-limits, Malibu is back on the table for swimming.
For the latest updates, residents and visitors can call the Beach Closure Hotline at 1-800-525-5662, check the online map of affected locations at the Department of Public Health’s website, or reach out directly by phone at (626) 430-5360.
