BREAKING: San Diego Beaches Under Water-Quality Advisory Ahead of Fourth of July
San Diego, CA — With the Fourth of July weekend arriving, health officials have issued 10 water-quality advisories for popular beaches across San Diego County, urging swimmers to steer clear until further notice.
County authorities say elevated bacteria levels, likely due to recent stormwater runoff and other contamination sources, have prompted warnings at locations including La Jolla Cove Beachline and the Children’s Pool. Advisories are also in place for Coronado’s Silver Strand, Ocean Beach dog beach, Mission Bay’s Tecolote Shores, Pacific Beach’s Tourmaline Surf Park, Del Mar near the San Dieguito River outlet, and several spots in Cardiff State Beach.
The advisory means the water does not meet California’s health standards. While beaches remain open, entering the water is discouraged until tests confirm bacteria levels have returned to safe ranges.
Why the Warnings Matter
These advisories are more than a nuisance, they’re a public health alert. The presence of bacteria like enterococci signals potential fecal contamination, raising the risk of infections, stomach illness, and skin conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates around 80,000 bacterial infections annually are linked to unsafe swimming conditions.
For beachgoers, particularly families and pet owners, the advice is clear: watch for posted signs, check local advisory listings, and skip the water when warnings are active.
What Happens Now
Health officials will continue daily testing. Advisories stay in place until bacteria levels are confirmed to be within safe limits. In the meantime, many locals say they’ll enjoy the sand and sun—but they’ll pass on swimming.
What You Should Do
- Check before you go — Look for signage at beach entrances or visit county websites to check advisory status.
- Avoid the water — If there’s an advisory, don’t swim or let pets swim.
- Stay updated — Advisories may lift quickly after rain stops and water tests clear.
As San Diego heads into one of its busiest beach weekends of the year, staying aware of local water quality can mean the difference between a relaxing holiday and an unwanted health issue.
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