California Today

California Beaches: Bacteria Hotspots Named

22 May 2026 14:50

Recent reports from Heal the Bay and Surfrider Foundation reveal bacterial pollution at several California beaches. - Santa Monica Pier ranked among most polluted for fifth year.

- Linda Mar Beach, San Luis Creek at Avila Beach, and Imperial Beach are top hotspots. - 91% of beaches got A/B grades in dry weather, but wet weather grades dropped.

- Health risks include 57 million illnesses annually from bacteria in water. Infrastructure investment is needed to reduce sewage and runoff pollution.

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Avila BeachPacificaImperial Beachhealthweatherenvironment