UPDATE (June 15, 2020) - As California State Parks begins working with locals on a phased and regionally-driven approach to increase access to state park units where compliance with state and local public health ordinances can be achieved, it is important for visitors to continue to practice physical distancing and avoid congregating with people outside their immediate household. Everyone has the responsibility to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

Here are some guidelines for people visiting South Carlsbad State Beach:

What is open now? The following is open at the beach:

• South Carlsbad State Beach including day use parking at North Ponto and South Ponto are open for active and passive recreation.
• Day-use fees may be paid through the automated pay machines installed at the park.
• Campgrounds will open at limited capacity to maintain social distancing and avoid large group gatherings starting June 12. For more information about camping, visit www.parks.ca.gov/COVID19Camping. To make a reservation, visit www.ReserveCalifornia.com or call 800-444-7275. Campsites are sold by reservation only, walk-ins will NOT be allowed. Camping is available only for those in the same family unit. Courtesy passes will not be issued for guests as visitors are not permitted to enter the campground.
  
  

What is currently closed at this park and throughout the State Park System?
At this park:

• Group activities and athletics are prohibited at this time. Park amenities such as volleyball courts and drinking fountains are closed.

Statewide:

• Many campgrounds across the state remain closed until further notice. Some campgrounds have started to reopen with modifications. For more information, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/COVID19Camping.
• High public-use indoor facilities, including museums and visitor centers.
• Special events and tours continue to be canceled until further notice.
  
  

Are there any new visitor guidelines?
Yes, please see below:

• Stay Local: Walk or bike into the beach. Visit the beach with only those in your immediate household.
• Stay Active: Walk, jog, surf, swim, body board, etc. Passive recreation is also permitted, which includes sunbathing and sitting.
• Stay Safer at 6 Feet: Maintain a physical distance of 6 feet or more. Gatherings, picnics, group games, games of sport and beach parties are not allowed. Visitors are being asked to leave if there are too many people at the beach or on trails to allow for the required physical distance.
• Stay Clean: Be prepared. Bring soap/ sanitizer and pack out all trash.
• Stay Covered: Wear face coverings when you cannot maintain a safe 6 ft. distance. San Diego County regulations require all visitors to have a mask at all times and to wear it whenever you're within 6 ft. of another person outside your household.

Thank you for your patience and continued support of California State Parks as we work to limit your risk for exposure to COVID-19 in the outdoors. For more information, please visit parks.ca.gov/FlattenTheCurve.