The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is waving a red flag for several popular coastal spots, advising against any forms of aquatic frolic due to unsavory bacterial levels that have surged past health standards.
Here's the skinny on where not to take a dip: Santa Monica Pier and the adjacent stretch, the Pico-Kenter storm drain area, Castlerock Storm Drain at Topanga County Beach, Ramirez Creek by Paradise Cove, the vicinity of the Bel Air Bay Club at Will Rogers State Beach, the entirety of Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey, the Windward storm drain at Venice Beach, and every inch of Inner Cabrillo Beach's swim area in San Pedro. According to a health advisory issued, these locations are all swimming in bacteria.
On the flip side, Topanga Canyon Beach users in Malibu can now breathe a sigh of relief because their favorite sunbathing spot has been given the all-clear with water quality back within state standards. But if you're thinking of slipping into your wetsuit or unleashing the kids at other affected locales, think twice. The ocean's not playing nice with Los Angeles County's safety mark at these places, and swimmers could be taking a gamble with their health on the line.
Lifesaver tip for beach junkies wanting to stay updated: the County's beach closure hotline at 1-800-525-5662 is your 24/7 friend, armed with the latest info on beach conditions.
