Heal the Bay released its 2022 – 2023 Beach and Rivers Report Card for the State of California on Wednesday. The report card lists 500 California beaches and 35 freshwater recreation areas in Los Angeles County, all rated A through F.
The grades are based on tests conducted by county health agencies that measure the levels of bacterial contamination in the water.
Waters with a degree of C or lower have a high risk of coming into contact with bacteria that can cause illness.
According to a study, up to 97% of surfers and bathers who wade on the beaches of South San Diego have swum within feet of these predators.
Out of the 500 beaches, here is a list of the 10 best and worst.
Heal the Bay Honor Roll:
- Point Loma, Lighthouse, San Diego
- Bean Hollow State Beach, San Mateo
This year only two beaches made the honor roll due to weather patterns that affected water quality.
California experienced significant rainfall that can bring pollutants to the beach from storm drains. Most of the winter data was also collected during the rainy season.
“This year, record rainfall has had a huge impact on water quality off the California coast,” said Tracy Quinn, executive director of Heal the Bay.
“Now more than ever, we must prioritize multi-benefit projects to manage stormwater as a water quality and supply solution, while ensuring the public is kept informed about public health risks.
The pools are now open to offer swimming courses to children and adults.
List of the worst beaches (Beach Bummer), according to Heal the Bay:
- Playa Blanca, Baja California
- Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles County
- Linda Mar Beach, San Mateo County
- Marlin Park, San Mateo County
- Erckenbrack Park, San Mateo County
- Tijuana River Mouth, San Diego County
- Pillar Point Harbor, San Mateo County
- Marina del Rey Mother’s Beach, Los Angeles County
- Poche Beach, Orange County
- Gull Park, San Mateo County
More than half of the beaches on this list were in the report card which was released in 2022. These beaches are among the most polluted and contain the highest levels of harmful bacteria on California beaches.
This story first appeared on Telemundo 52’s sister station, NBCLA. Click here to read this story in English.
