Santa Monica Pier Ranks Among California’s Most Polluted Beaches Again

If you’re planning a summer getaway, consider excluding some southern California beaches from your list. The environmental non-profit Heal the Bay has ranked Santa Monica Pier as one of the most polluted beaches in California for the fifth consecutive year.

The beaches at this landmark are extremely popular, attracting over 9 million visitors annually. Despite efforts to improve water quality, Santa Monica Pier ranked second on Heal the Bay’s 36th annual ‘Beach Bummers’ list, which assesses pollution severity from urban runoff, bacteria hotspots, and aging infrastructure.

Heal the Bay’s Beach Report Card evaluates fecal pollution levels at ocean beaches from Mexico’s Tijuana to Washington’s coast. Playa Blanca in Tijuana topped the list, while Santa Monica Pier followed closely.

Frequent issues like rainfall, runoff, and sewage spills continue to impact coastal waters. Santa Monica Pier has appeared on the Beach Bummers list 15 times over the past 21 years. The City of Santa Monica has introduced stormwater capture systems and bird deterrent netting in attempts to combat pollution. However, these measures have only provided temporary improvements. Bacteria levels are again on the rise, emphasizing the need for ongoing investment and maintenance.

Heal the Bay, in partnership with the City of Santa Monica, is working to identify the causes of the Pier’s pollution. Finding these causes will help develop effective solutions.

Meanwhile, Heal the Bay also announced 21 California beaches on its ‘Honor Roll List’ for maintaining excellent conditions, a significant drop from last year’s 62. Bluff Cove in Los Angeles County secured the top position.

Fecal pollution remains a serious public health concern as exposure can lead to illness. The Environmental Protection Agency warns that swimming or other water activities in contaminated areas can cause severe infections.

Last year, public health advisories were issued for areas around Santa Monica Pier due to elevated bacteria levels. Similar advisories have also been reported elsewhere, like Crandon Park North in Key Biscayne and regions in Washington State.

The Washington State Department of Ecology advises avoiding water contact within 24 hours of heavy rainfall and staying clear of pipes or streams discharging directly onto beaches.