Santa Monica beaches were among those in the advisory. Photo: Andrew Gwizdowski//Unsplash
Los Angeles County’s Department of Public Health issued a warning of high bacteria levels along the county’s entire coastline. In a press release, they listed 14 locations, ranging from Malibu to Marina Del Rey, that surpassed bacteria thresholds.
“These warnings are issued because recent water samples showed bacterial levels exceeding health standards, which may increase the risk of illness,” the department said.
As of Wednesday, every beach on the county’s website was placed under “advisory” status due to recent rainfall. Over the past 24 hours, the city received a moderate amount of rain — less than a half inch in most areas, with some mountainous regions receiving nearly an inch. Even a little rain can have a big impact, given how dry the winter and spring have been.
An “Ocean Water Quality Rain Advisory” will be in place for Los Angeles County beaches until at least 8 a.m. Saturday, April 4.
“Beach users are cautioned to avoid water contact for at least 72 hours after rainfall,” the county said.
The county did not report exactly how much bacteria was detected in the advisory areas. According to its water quality standards, a 100-milliliter sample can not contain more than 10,000 coliform bacteria, 400 fecal coliform bacteria, or 104 enterococcus bacteria.
Samples are collected once a week.
One bright piece of news: the statement noted that one area that had previously tested above bacteria limits, Inner Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, had since dropped to an acceptable count.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY OCEAN WATER UPDATES.
For more info, visit: https://t.co/xkfaXWbdBr pic.twitter.com/w6BVBw9as9— LA Public Health (@lapublichealth) March 31, 2026
