California note
Beach water warnings can change after rain
Local health agencies issue current beach postings, closures, and rain advisories; the state Beach Watch pages add useful statewide context but are not a live all-clear.
A beach can look clean and still have a water notice. California uses four kinds of warnings: postings, closures, rain advisories, and permanent postings. The county health office issues the current notice.
Rain needs its own pause. State guidance says to stay out of ocean water during rain and for three days after it stops. Runoff can carry bacteria to the ocean, especially near storm drains, lagoons, and closed-in beaches.
Beach Watch is useful for state context and past test results. But its closure and posting data comes from reports shown each month, so it is not a live all-clear. Before swimming, surfing, or wading, check the county’s current beach page. Read the signs when you arrive. If the sources differ, follow the current local warning and take the safer path.
Where to see it
California Beach Watch and State Water Board beach monitoring pages.
Official sources
Official pages
Reviewed July 14, 2026
Current maps, alerts, conditions, and public safety guidance.
Conditions and public guidance can change quickly. Check the current page before you act.