The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is waving a red flag for beachgoers heading to several local beaches, urging the public to steer clear of swimming, surfing, or splashing around in the ocean waters nearby specific areas. These advisories affect a swath of coastline, from the sandy stretches at Manhattan Beach Pier to the usually bustling Santa Monica Pier, due to water quality tests revealing bacterial levels that would give anyone second thoughts about diving in.
With health standards taking a plunge, the waters around these popular spots aren't just murky; they're potentially harmful. The advisories focus on areas up to 100 yards from various piers, storm drains, and lifeguard stations—unsurprisingly, some of the most frequented slices of the coast. At El Matador State Beach, Paradise Cove, and other specified locations, the warning is even more expansive, covering the whole swim area. Clearly, this isn't just a drop in the ocean; it's a significant cause for caution.
Visitors planning a beach day need to pay attention to these warnings, designed to keep the public safe from unseen bacteria lurking in the water. According to the official bulletin released by the Department of Public Health, these no-go zones include popular hangouts like the Manhattan Beach Pier, the Windward storm drain at Venice Beach, and Leo Carrillo State Beach, amongst others. High bacteria levels rarely make for good company, whether you're hitting the waves or building sandcastles.
If you've got questions or a hankering for more info, don't hesitate to reach out to the Department of Public Health at (626) 430-5360. For those who prefer their updates in audio form, a beach closure hotline keeps interested parties in the loop with a 24-hour recorded message at 1-800-525-5662.
