Checking ocean and beach water quality

We test the ocean water at San Francisco beaches to make sure they are clean and safe for all.

Checking ocean water

We track San Francisco’s beaches to make sure they are clean and safe to use. We collect water samples to measure bacteria levels. Bacteria levels can tell us about the water quality. When the water is not clean and safe, we post “No Swimming” signs.

We test water from these areas:

  • Aquatic Park Beach
  • Baker Beach, East
  • China Beach
  • Crissy Fields Beach, East
  • Crissy Fields Beach, West
  • Fort Funston Beach
  • Mission Creek
  • Ocean Beach at Balboa St.
  • Ocean Beach at Sloat Blvd.
  • Ocean Beach at Vicente St.
  • Sunnydale Cove
  • Windsurfer Circle
  • Hyde Street Pier
  • Islais Creek
  • Jackrabbit Beach

Stay up to date

For updates on beach water quality:

Report a problem

Let us know if you think the beach water is not clean or safe. Call 311 for the City Customer Service Agency.

Last updated January 30, 2024