Dangerous beach conditions forecast for Malibu through Aug. 1; Officials urge residents to stay out of water

By The Malibu Times · Thu Jul 30 2026

Powerful surf, dangerous rip currents, and breaking waves are expected along the Malibu coastline through Saturday, increasing the risk of drowning and coastal hazards.

The National Weather Service is warning of dangerous beach conditions along the Malibu coastline from Tuesday, July 28, through Saturday, Aug. 1, with powerful breaking waves and strong rip currents expected to create hazardous conditions for swimmers, surfers, and beachgoers.

Officials say the combination of elevated surf and fast-moving rip currents significantly increases the risk of drowning, particularly for inexperienced swimmers and surfers. Even experienced ocean users are urged to exercise extreme caution, as conditions can change rapidly.

Rip currents are powerful channels of water that flow away from the shore and can quickly carry swimmers into deeper water. Large breaking waves also pose a danger by sweeping people off beaches, jetties, and rocks, while rough surf can capsize small boats operating close to shore.

Additional hazards include sneaker waves, localized beach erosion, and floating debris in the water, all of which can create dangerous and unpredictable conditions along Malibu's beaches.

Safety officials recommend avoiding the ocean whenever possible during the advisory period. Those who do choose to enter the water should only do so near occupied Los Angeles County Lifeguard towers and should speak with lifeguards about current ocean conditions before entering the surf.

Parents are also reminded to closely supervise children at all times, keeping them well away from the shoreline and never allowing them to play in or near the water without constant adult supervision.

Beach visitors are encouraged to remain alert, stay off rocks and jetties where waves can unexpectedly crash ashore, and monitor updated forecasts as conditions evolve throughout the week.

With summer crowds continuing to flock to Malibu's coastline, officials hope beachgoers will heed the warnings and prioritize safety until ocean conditions improve.