Santa Cruz County beaches will be closed during the day, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting this weekend.
Sheriff Jim Hart said visitors continue to defy warnings by traveling to and congregating at local beaches. Hart added that law enforcement officers will enforce the order, which Santa Cruz County Health Officer Gail Newel is expected to issue soon.
Under the order, people may only cross the sands to surf, paddleboard, boogie board, swim, or engage in other forms of exercise involving the ocean. Trails, sidewalks, and parkways adjacent to beaches will remain open, as will non-beach areas of parks.
Any activities not related to exercise such as sunbathing, sightseeing, and standing will remain off-limits.
Umbrellas, beach chairs, coolers, shade structures, tents, barbecues, and other equipment are also still prohibited.
California law dictates violating the emergency order could lead to a $1,000 fine and/or jail time.
