Update: All Orange County beaches, state parks to close
Update: SLO County beaches are staying open after governor debunks closure rumor
Starting this weekend, Orange County’s coast is closing
Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Thursday that Orange County beaches will close in an unprecedented move to enforce the statewide shelter-in-place order and reduce the spread of coronavirus.
A memo sent by the California Chiefs Association initially indicated that all California beaches would close.
The Orange County announcement comes after San Luis Obispo County leaders sent letters to the governor asking that Newsom relax the statewide order so that the county can move forward with their phased reopening plan.
The county cannot take action until the governor lifts the statewide order.
According to the California Chiefs Association, the Orange County beach closures are a response to recent overcrowding at beaches across Southern California.
Hot weather also attracted large crowds to San Luis Obispo County beaches on the weekend of April 25 and 26, with several people ignoring social distancing guidelines.
Most San Luis Obispo County beaches have remained open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, with restrictions.
Many beach parking lots have closed, including parking lots in Morro Bay. And in Avila Beach, three beaches have prohibited blankets and beach chairs.
However, beach access is still available in most areas and will continue to be available locally.
This story was originally published April 30, 2020 at 9:08 AM with the headline "Update: All Orange County beaches, state parks to close."
