You know those LA beaches we all have saved on our bucket list?
The Santa Monica Pier sunset, the chaos of Venice Beach, that perfect wave at Paradise Cove in Malibu. The kind of places where you picture yourself just swimming, surfing, and doing nothing all day.
Well, the LA County government just said – not right now.
What Happened?
On October 02, 2026, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued an Ocean Water Use Warning.
The reason is pretty straightforward. Recent water samples showed bacteria levels exceeding state health standards. That means swimming, surfing, and playing in the water in those areas can increase the risk of illness.
It’s not the whole coastline, it’s specific spots, mostly around storm drains and piers.
Where Is The Warning?
These are the exact dream spots that are currently under warning:
- Santa Monica Beach – Around Pico-Kenter storm drain (South Tower 20) and around Santa Monica Pier – 100 yards up and down the coast
- Venice Beach – At Rose Ave. Storm Drain – entire swim area
- Manhattan Beach – Around Manhattan Beach Pier
- Topanga County Beach – At Castlerock Storm Drain
- Paradise Cove – Walnut Creek – entire swim area
- Redondo Beach – At Redondo Beach Pier, Sapphire St., and Avenue I storm drain
- Rancho Palos Verdes – Portuguese Bend – entire area
- Torrance Beach – At Malaga Cove, just north of RAT Tower
Which Beaches Are Clear Now?
Good news – two beaches have been cleared after water quality came back to normal:
- Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach
- Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro
What to do if you are there?
You can check the 24-hour beach conditions hotline: 1-800-525-5662 or check the live map at publichealth.lacounty.gov/beach
The beaches aren’t going anywhere. Our plans can wait a few days for the water to get clean again.
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