As of early 2026, the water quality at Long Beach, California, is generally rated as "Good" to "Excellent" during dry weather, with most monitored sites receiving A or B grades in recent Heal the Bay reports. However, "safe" is a relative term that depends heavily on recent weather events. Because Long Beach is situated at the mouth of the Los Angeles River and is protected by a long breakwater, it acts as a "catch basin" for urban runoff from across the LA basin. Consequently, the water is unsafe for at least 72 hours after any significant rainfall, as storm drains wash bacteria, chemicals, and debris directly into the bay. Additionally, localized sewage spills occasionally trigger temporary beach closures. While the city has made massive strides in "clean water" initiatives and 2026 monitoring is more rigorous than ever, swimmers should always check the Long Beach Health Department's live water quality map before entering the surf to ensure there are no active health advisories.