Full Notification

City Closes Strand
County of Los Angeles Closes Beaches and Bike Path 

Manhattan Beach, CA (March 27, 2020) - In response to the rapid spread of COVID-19, and the need to protect the health and safety of the community, the City has closed the beach walking path known as the Strand. In a related action, the County of Los Angeles announced today that it is closing all county beaches and the bike path, effectively immediately. The County’s order includes the beach and bike paths in Manhattan Beach. 

"These are unprecedented times and our City is moving aggressively to slow the spread of COVID-19. Closing the Strand combined with LA County shutting down the beaches will reduce the crowds and risks posed to our community," said Mayor Richard Montgomery. “Please spread the word, so we do not spread the virus.”

Residents and visitors are to refrain from entering or occupying the Strand, sandy beach, or using the bike path until further notice. All restrooms will be locked as well. The County and City will be patrolling these areas to enforce the closures.

Throughout the South Bay, the beach and the Strand will be closed. Neighboring jurisdictions in Redondo Beach and Hermosa Beach have closed their public walkways and bike paths on or next to the beach as well. 
 
The City recognizes the importance of maintaining physical activity during this time. However, residents should utilize their local neighborhoods and are safer at home. If residents are exercising in local neighborhoods, social distancing (6 feet apart) needs to be maintained. Under the City’s recently-passed urgency ordinance, violators of the six foot requirement may be subject to citations or fines.  
 
“The Manhattan Beach Police Department is prepared to enforce these important public health orders to keep our residents safe. I urge everyone to stay home, and not come to the beaches as it represents a public health risk,” said Police Chief Derrick Abell. 

Hermosa Beach, San Diego, Laguna Beach and several other Southern California communities have also announced beach closures recently. Hermosa Beach is unique among South Bay cities in owning its own beach. Los Angeles County owns the beaches in other South Bay cities including Redondo Beach, Torrance, and El Segundo.
 
As the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, the City of Manhattan Beach will continue to provide updates. Information regarding the coronavirus is changing frequently. For accurate and up to date information about COVID-19, please visit DPH’s website, the City’s website, sign up for eNotifications and Nixle public safety alerts, and follow the City on Facebook, Twitter, Nextdoor, and Instagram.
 
For questions on the implementation of the County’s Order and new City measures related to addressing COVID-19, please send an email to [email protected].

 
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