Bacteria Warning Issued For Malibu Beaches

MALIBU, CA — Those looking to take a dip in the ocean may want to steer clear of some Los Angeles beaches as the county’s Public Health Department issued a bacteria advisory for four beaches — including Topanga County Beach and Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach.

The department collects samples at least weekly from various sites year-round to test and monitor bacteria levels. On Monday, the division found the ocean water at two Malibu beaches exceeded state standards for bacterial levels.

In addition to Topanga and Malibu Lagoon, the Santa Monica Pier and Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey also didn’t meet state standards.

The Department of Public Health discourages swimming in the water at the beach because it may cause illness.

The public may see warning signs displayed at the beach. To view a list of the locations visit the Public Health Department’s website. The list will be updated when conditions change and the water is found to be safe to swim, surf and play in again.