Expand Dune Restoration in Santa Monica

In October 2025, the California Coastal Commission approved Phase 3 of the Santa Monica Living Shorelines Project, a major victory for the city’s coastline. Led by The Bay Foundation, the project expanded native coastal dune habitat along the beach, providing a nature-based solution to protect one of LA’s most iconic shorelines.

The restored dunes add beauty, create rare coastal habitat, and serve as a proven defense against erosion, coastal flooding, and sea level rise. Since 2016, pilot dune restorations in Santa Monica have demonstrated that these habitats can retain sand and naturally buffer against wave impacts. With the project now moving forward, Santa Monica is taking a proactive step to safeguard its beaches against the 3+ feet of sea level rise expected by 2100.

Surfrider Los Angeles submitted a letter of support, as well as rallied volunteers to testify to this project's importance at the Coastal Commission hearing. This project's approval is a win for science-backed, community-centered solutions that protect our coast. It shows what’s possible when advocates, volunteers, and local residents come together to champion nature-based strategies that strengthen coastal resilience.