Beach Advisory - Lovers Point Beach - Due to single sample high indicator bacteria result

Lover's Point Beach, Pacific Grove is under advisory due to high indicator bacteria found in samples taken October 26th, 2026. The beach will remain under advisory until samples indicate that indicator bacteria are at a safe level for recreational water contact according to state guidelines.

Higher levels of bacteria have been associated with the increased potential risk of illness. Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations Section 7958 establishes bacterial standards for ocean water at beaches that are 1) visited by more than 50,000 people annually; 2) located adjacent to a storm drain (i.e. culvert, creek, or stream etc.) that flows during the summer. Therefore, when bacterial levels exceed bacterial standards, an advisory is issued, and beaches are posted with advisory notice.

There are various sources of bacteria such as marine life (i.e. seals, otters, birds) and other animals; rainfall runoff; storm drains; and human activity. Rainfall is associated with increased bacterial levels due to runoff particularly in the area of man-made and natural storm drains such as culverts, streams and rivers.

It is recommended that you do not swim in or have contact with storm drain water. Bacteria, viruses, protozoa or chemicals may contaminate storm drain water, and contact with storm drain water may cause illness.

For more information on Monterey Peninsula beaches please call the hotline at (831) 755-4599 or visit our web site at www.mtyhd.org/beaches.