Millions of people visit Santa Monica beaches each year, but if you swim near the pier area, be warned that the water is the most polluted in the state, according to Heal the Bay’s research.

The organization's Beach Report Card ranks the most polluted and cleanest beaches in the state based on water quality tests from April 2024 to March 2025, evaluating harmful bacteria levels.

Fire contaminants, sick sea mammals, and now, an A+ report card? As temperatures rise and Angelenos head into summer, one ...