Santa Monica Beach Closures Remain in Effect
April 23, 2020 12:00 PM
SANTA MONICA, Calif. – As we approach a warm weekend in Southern California, the City of Santa Monica reminds the region that Santa Monica beach, beach bike path, beach parking lots, beach access points, and Palisades Park remain closed through May 15. On March 27, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health ordered the temporary closure of all public beaches, beach bike paths, public trails, and beach access points to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
“For Angelenos, hot weather is normally beach weather. Right now, is not a normal time. We all have to remember that coronavirus means we must change normal behavior. For your safety, the beach is absolutely closed,” said Mayor Kevin McKeown. “So are the beach bike path, Santa Monica Pier, the walkways near the beach, and even the cliffs overlooking the beach at Palisades Park. Our Santa Monica Police Department will be there to protect public safety. We don’t want to write tickets for people who disobey County health orders, but we are prepared to if anyone forces us. Please get outside in your neighborhood. Enjoy the clear skies and fresh breeze. But don’t forget face coverings, don’t forget physical distancing, and don’t come to the beach. Santa Monica looks forward to welcoming you back again when it’s safe.”
These closures are part of protecting the public’s health and help avoid a steep rise in COVID-19 cases like the country has seen in New York City. Currently, LA County is experiencing a more gradual increase in cases as a result of the stay at home orders and physical distancing. It is essential that we remain vigilant with physical distancing and staying home as much as possible.
The Santa Monica Police Department will be actively patrolling the beach area this weekend and will issue citations, if necessary, to protect the public’s health.
Residents can go outside for a walk or to a local park, but everyone is encouraged to stay close to home as much as possible. Remember to wear face coverings for all essential trips and stay hydrated with the increased temperatures.
For information on COVID-19 in Santa Monica, visit www.santamonica.gov/coronavirus or call the Santa Monica coronavirus hotline: (310) 458-8400. Get Santa Monica emergency alerts by texting SMCOVID to 888-777. Sign up for daily COVID-19 updates at www.santamonica.gov/newsletter.
The County has shared information on ways to keep busy while staying indoors during the warmer temperatures.
Media Contact
Constance Farrell
Communications & Public Information Manager
Constance.Farrell@santamonica.gov