Thousands pack Southern California beaches despite coronavirus concerns

A heat wave lured people to Southern California beaches on Saturday and Sunday, amid the coronavirus pandemic, despite a statewide stay-at-home order implemented by the governor last month.

Temperatures were close to 90 degrees.

While beaches in Los Angeles and San Diego counties remained closed, they were open in Ventura and Orange counties on the weekend.

Tens of thousands of people packed the sand at Newport Beach in Orange County, where residents compared weekend crowds to the Fourth of July and lifeguards reminded people to stay apart if they were in groups of six or more.

Neighbouring Huntington Beach also saw big gatherings, despite the closure of parking lots and metered parking restricted along Pacific Coast Highway.

Authorities, however, said both Ventura and Orange counties reported excellent behaviour by beachgoers, who they said were diligently observing social distancing rules.

By Sunday, temperatures had fallen down. But that did not deter people from going out to the beaches.

The scenes at Ventura and Orange County beaches were a stark contrast to the empty neighbouring Southern California beaches.

Under the county's stay-home order, beaches -- as well as beach parking lots, restrooms, showers and accessways -- will remain closed through May 15.

San Diego beaches are also closed under a similar order. Authorities, however, announced they would allow access to the water beginning Monday for swimming and surfing.