Beaches Closed From Carlsbad To San Diego Due To Coronavirus​​

SAN DIEGO, CA — All city beaches from Carlsbad to San Diego remain closed Tuesday as San Diego County officials urged residents to practice social distancing to slow the spread of the new coronavirus.

The county amended a previous public health order on Monday to include the authority to close beaches and parks if municipalities are unable or unwilling to enforce social distancing rules recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The announcement was made after gatherings larger than 10 people have been spotted at local beaches.

"We encourage outdoor exercise as long as people maintain 6 feet of social distancing," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county's public health officer. "It looks like people are not able to do that."

San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer on Monday ordered the closure of all city-owned beaches, parks, trails, boardwalks and bays. He said violators could face fines and jail time.

"These are not actions we are taking lightly, but gatherings can spread this dangerous virus. The actions of a few can cost the lives of many," Faulconer said. "People can still go outdoors, but please go outdoors close to home. This is about protecting each other."

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The state will close all parking lots at state beaches and parks in an effort to discourage people from being in close contact with others, Gov. Gavin Newsom said Monday. Widely-circulated images over the weekend showed residents packing beaches despite California's stay-at-home order.

Also on Monday, the city of Carlsbad closed city parks, trails and beaches. About six of Carlsbad's seven miles of coastline are owned and operated by the state, so the city made a formal request to the California Department of Parks & Recreation to close its beaches and parking lots in Carlsbad.

Encinitas closed city beaches, access points to beaches, and parking lots adjacent to beaches.

Del Mar and Solana Beach closed city beaches, trails and most parks.

Oceanside closed beach parking lots and public playgrounds.

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