Bacteria Warning Issued For Santa Monica, LA Beaches

SANTA MONICA, CA — Those looking to take a late summer dip in the ocean may want to steer clear of some Los Angeles beaches as the County’s Public Health Department issued a bacteria advisory for six beaches - including Santa Monica.

The department collects samples weekly from various sites year-round to test and monitor bacteria levels. On Tuesday, the division found the ocean water at the Santa Monica Pier and Ashland Avenue Storm Drain exceeded state standards for bacterial levels.

Beaches in the county at Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach, Herondo Street Storm Drain in Hermosa Beach, 28th Street Storm Drain at Manhattan County Beach and Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey also didn’t meet state standards.

The Department of Public Health discourages swimming in the water at the beach because it may cause illness.

The public may see warning signs displayed at the beach. To view a list of the locations visit the Public Health Department’s website. The list will be updated when conditions change and the water is found to be safe to swim, surf and play in again.