Top Beaches in Southern California Coastal Areas Ranked According to Pollution Levels

Coronado Bridge Mission Bay

As you can see, La Jolla Shores has the best water quality, with a water quality index of 90 and no detected pollutants. Coronado Beach is also in good condition, with a water quality index of 88, although this can fluctuate. The water quality starts to decline as you move south, with Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, and Ocean Beach all having water quality indices of 84, 82, and 80 respectively. These beaches are all located in urban areas and are subject to runoff from storm drains and sewage treatment plants.

Torrey Pines State Beach, Coronado Cays, and Huntington Beach Pier have water quality indices of 80, 78, and 76 respectively. These beaches are located in more natural areas and are less affected by urban runoff. However, they can still be affected by sewage spills and oil spills.

Bolsa Chica State Beach

Huntington Beach Pier, Bolsa Chica State Beach, and Huntington Beach City Beach have water quality indices of 76, 74, and 72 respectively. These beaches are located in the most urbanized areas of and are subject to the highest levels of runoff and pollution. The main pollutants found in the water at these beaches include sewage, bacteria, and oil. Sewage and bacteria can come from storm drains, sewage treatment plants, and septic tanks. Oil can come from boats, cars, and oil spills.

It is important to check the water quality before swimming in any beach, especially if you have young children or are planning to do any water sports. You can find water quality information for beaches in San Diego and Huntington Beach on the websites of the San Diego County Water Authority and the City of Huntington Beach.

For more information about current water quality in San Diego, check:

http://www.sdbeachinfo.com/

Orange County:

https://ocbeachinfo.com/huntington/