San Diego Water Quality and Safe Swimming Spots
- San Diego Beach Review
- Aug 11
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 17
Why San Diego Water Quality Matters
With more than 70 miles of coastline, San Diego is one of the best places in California to enjoy the ocean. But not all beaches are safe for swimming every day. Stormwater runoff, seasonal rain, and sewage pollution from the Tijuana River often impact popular beaches from Imperial Beach up through Coronado and into Mission Bay and beyond.
This guide highlights the beaches with poor water quality and the ones that are consistently safe, plus tips on checking real‑time water conditions before you head out.
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San Diego Beaches with Frequent Water Quality Problems
Imperial Beach
Imperial Beach is one of the most frequently closed beaches in California due to sewage pollution from the Tijuana River. Closures can last for weeks, especially after rain. Always check the latest advisories before planning a visit. You can check here, but it's generally not recommended to go swimming here.
Coronado and Silver Strand
Coronado Central Beach sometimes has safe conditions, but water quality can decline when currents push Tijuana River pollution north. Silver Strand often mirrors the water quality issues seen in Imperial Beach.
Be sure to check out our full beach review of Coronado Beach for more information on visiting this popular beach.
Mission Bay
Parts of Mission Bay are prone to high bacteria levels, especially near Tecolote Creek outlet, North Cove of Vacation Isle, Fiesta Island, and Bonita Cove. Shallow waters and poor circulation make Mission Bay a hotspot for advisories after rainfall. Be sure to stay updated on advisories to stay safe when getting in the water here.
Take a look at our Guide to Mission Bay for more information on the different areas and what you can expect in each one.
Ocean Beach Dog Beach
Located at the mouth of the San Diego River, Dog Beach often sees bacteria spikes from San Diego River runoff and heavy dog use. Advisories are common, particularly after storms. Be sure to check before going for a swim or taking your pup here.
Be sure to take a look at the other dog-friendly beaches in San Diego too.
La Jolla Children’s Pool and Cove Shoreline
The Children’s Pool is often posted as unsafe because of seal waste in the enclosed area. The La Jolla Cove shoreline sometimes experiences bacterial exceedances, though the central cove is typically much cleaner.
Be sure to check out our guide to La Jolla Cove Beach for more information.
San Diego Beaches Known for Good Water Quality
La Jolla Shores and La Jolla Cove
These beaches are part of a protected marine reserve with clear waters, making them ideal for scuba, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Be sure to check out our guide to La Jolla Shores Beach for information on parking, crowds, amenities, activities, and more.
Torrey Pines State Beach
With fewer storm drains and less urban runoff, Torrey Pines maintains consistently good water quality year‑round. If you're interested in hiking while visiting this beach, be sure to check out our Guide to Torrey Pines for information on trails, access, scenic viewpoints, and more.
Del Mar Beach
Del Mar Beach is generally safe to swim in throughout. After rain, it is still recommended to wait 72 hours before getting back in the water and to avoid areas by river mouths or drains.
For more information on Del Mar Beach, see our full beach review of Del Mar here.
Mission Beach and Pacific Beach
North of the more impacted areas near Ocean Beach and Mission Bay, Mission Beach and Pacific Beach often have clean water. They are popular with families, surfers, and swimmers, and typically receive good water quality grades outside of storm periods.
Check out our full beach review of Mission Beach, as well as our beach review of Pacific Beach for more information on parking, crowds, water quality, amenities, safety, activities, and more.
Moonlight State Beach in Encinitas
Moonlight Beach is a family‑friendly destination with reliable clean water and excellent facilities.
For more information see our review of Moonlight State Beach.
Oceanside and Carlsbad Beaches
These beaches frequently report clean water for swimming. After rain, it is still recommended to wait 72 hours before getting back in the water and to avoid areas by river mouths or drains.
Sunset Cliffs and Point Loma
Less affected by runoff and storm drains, Sunset Cliffs and the Point Loma area usually maintain good conditions for surfers and swimmers.
Be sure to check out our Guide to Sunset Cliffs for more information.
How to Check San Diego Water Quality
Before you head out, check one of these trusted resources:
San Diego County Beach Water Quality Map for daily closure and advisory updates. Check here.
San Diego Coastkeeper Beach Advisories Map for interactive, real‑time beach status. See here.
Heal the Bay Beach Report Card for annual A–F water quality grades across California. See here.
San Diego County Beach Hotline: 619‑338‑2073.
Local tip: Avoid swimming for 72 hours after rain, as bacteria levels increase significantly across the county.
Related Guides from San Diego Beach Review
FAQ: San Diego Water Quality
Which San Diego beaches are the most polluted?
Imperial Beach, Tijuana Slough, Border Field State Park, parts of Mission Bay, Ocean Beach Dog Beach, and sometimes the La Jolla Children’s Pool.
Which San Diego beaches are the cleanest?
La Jolla Shores, Mission Beach, Pacific Beach, Moonlight Beach, Oceanside, Carlsbad, and Sunset Cliffs.
Why are parts of Mission Bay often unsafe?
Shallow waters and poor circulation allow bacteria from storm drains and runoff to accumulate, especially after rain.
How can I check if it’s safe to swim today?
Use SDBeachInfo.com, Coastkeeper’s advisories map, or Heal the Bay’s Beach Report Card. The San Diego County hotline also provides updates.
Is it safe to swim after it rains?
It’s recommended to wait 72 hours after rain before swimming, as runoff dramatically raises bacteria levels.
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With this guide, you can make informed choices about where to swim in San Diego and enjoy the coast safely.
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