7 California Shores Locals Say Are No Longer Worth Visiting

California’s coast has always pulled me in, but not every shoreline still shines. Recently, I’ve noticed more locals voicing disappointment about certain beaches, from San Diego County up to the Bay Area. Whether it’s pollution, crowds, or access headaches, here are seven California shores that many people now suggest skipping, or at least approaching with caution.

1. Venice Beach, Los Angeles

I still remember the first time I set foot on Venice Beach, the energy was infectious and the boardwalk pulsed with life. These days, that same energy feels, frankly, overwhelming. Every step you take, you’re dodging crowds, and the sand often hides more trash than seashells.

If you ask a local, they’ll probably mention the issues with water quality, especially after storms. Urban runoff and nearby storm drains mean swimmers face unpredictable conditions, and ‘dirty sand’ has become a common complaint in online reviews. Some folks still love the scene, but it’s hard to ignore how the amenities struggle to keep up with the sheer number of visitors.

A quick walk along the boardwalk still entertains, but most people I know now avoid the beach itself. Trash bins overflow on weekends, and the once-relaxing vibe has shifted. If you want the classic Venice experience, arrive extra early or consider a weekday visit. Otherwise, you might find yourself wishing you’d chosen a quieter stretch of California’s coast.

2. Linda Mar Beach, Pacifica

Surfers used to rave about Linda Mar’s forgiving waves, but nowadays, water quality takes center stage. Many locals warn that the beach, while picturesque, often tests high for bacteria. A quick glance at Heal the Bay’s reports confirms why residents hesitate before wading in.

The issue isn’t just seasonal, rain or shine, pollution and runoff frequently push bacteria levels past safe limits. Even on calm days, you’ll spot warning signs about unpredictable conditions. It’s tough to unwind knowing what might be lurking just beyond the surf.

If you’re set on visiting, check local advisories before you go. Some still enjoy the view or grab coffee at nearby shops, but the days of carefree swimming here seem to be fading. Linda Mar’s reputation as a ‘must-visit’ is taking a real hit among people who call Pacifica home.

3. Big Sur Coastline (Public Beaches)

Anyone who’s driven Highway 1 knows Big Sur’s views are jaw-dropping. Yet, over the past few years, I’ve seen the downsides of its popularity firsthand. On weekends, parking lots overflow and trailheads become bottlenecks for cars and hikers alike.

It’s not just the traffic that’s increased. Residents report trails littered with discarded food wrappers and restroom facilities stretched beyond capacity. Sometimes, the only sights more common than the coastal vistas are overfilled bins and improvised paths where vegetation once grew.

Infrastructure simply hasn’t caught up. With minimal enforcement and limited sanitation, sections of Big Sur’s public beaches now struggle to handle the crowds. If you go, come prepared to pack out all you bring and expect some rough edges. This stretch of California’s coast still dazzles, but the experience is no longer what it used to be.

4. Mother’s Beach, Marina del Rey

Mother’s Beach sounds inviting, and families still flock here for the shallow, sheltered lagoon. What most don’t see are the hidden issues with stagnant water and recurring bacterial warnings. Locals quietly advise seeking out other swimming spots, especially in the summer.

The lack of wave action limits water circulation, allowing pollutants to linger long after warm days bring crowds. Signs about water quality are almost permanent fixtures, and parents tend to keep a closer eye on kids who splash about.

It’s a shame, because the setting is lovely and the marina has its charm. Still, for those who value clean water above all, this is no longer the easy recommendation it once was. The trade-offs have become impossible to ignore for many in California’s beachgoing community.

5. Santa Monica Pier Beach

The Santa Monica Pier Beach draws visitors from across the world, but for locals, the shine has worn off. The area around the pier faces persistent water quality problems, often due to runoff and droppings from the birds that nest here. Heal the Bay’s ‘Beach Bummer’ list regularly features this stretch for a reason.

Combine that with the buzz of street performers, souvenir stalls, and wall-to-wall tourists, and it’s less a peaceful escape and more a carnival. Finding a quiet spot on the sand is a serious challenge unless you’re up at sunrise. The pier’s energy can be fun, but expect a lot more hustle than relaxation.

Some still adore the nostalgia and energy of the scene, but for a true California beach day, many locals have started heading elsewhere. If you crave space and serenity, you’ll need to look beyond the Ferris wheel’s shadow.

6. Tijuana River Mouth, San Diego County

Tijuana River Mouth has a story that’s tough to ignore. For years, the area has faced closures due to pollution from upstream, water contaminated by runoff and sewage flows freely across the border. Local advisories are common, and swimming here means taking a real risk.

When I spoke with residents, most shared stories of health warnings and long stretches when the beach is completely off-limits. Even on days when it’s open, the uncertainty keeps crowds away. California’s southern coast deserves better, but the challenges here remain unresolved.

Wildlife still finds refuge among the dunes, but visitors are few and far between. If you’re in the area, there are many better places to put your towel down. The river mouth stands as a stark reminder of how upstream problems can ruin a beautiful shoreline.

7. Pillar Point Harbor, San Mateo County

There’s a certain charm to small harbors, but Pillar Point has its drawbacks. Locals have watched bacteria levels spike in recent years, landing this beach on the ‘Beach Bummer’ list more than once. Warning signs often greet would-be swimmers, deterring casual dips.

Fishing boats and a working harbor create a unique backdrop, but the water’s safety varies wildly. After storms or periods of heavy runoff, advisories go up and concerns linger for days. Some residents have shifted their routines entirely, swapping swims for coastal walks.

Still, the seafood eateries and foggy mornings might draw you in. For many California locals, though, the harbor’s beach is no longer a top recommendation. Best to enjoy the view from a distance and keep your toes dry.