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Santa Monica Expands Dune Restoration Project by 30 Acres
The joint effort between the city and The Bay Foundation aims to create a more resilient coastline against sea-level rise.
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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In a major step forward for coastal resilience, the City of Santa Monica and The Bay Foundation are adding nearly 30 additional acres of natural dunes along the shoreline, stretching from the Santa Monica Pier toward the Venice border. This Phase III initiative marks a key milestone in a long-term plan to restore dunes across the entirety of Santa Monica's beachfront, making it one of the largest nature-based coastal projects in Southern California.
Why it matters
The dune restoration project focuses on creating a more resilient coastline in the face of escalating threats from sea-level rise, which state projections estimate could reach 1.6 to 3.1 feet by 2100, potentially narrowing usable beach areas through erosion, higher tides, storm surges, and flooding. The expanded dunes will also enhance wildlife habitat, boost biodiversity, and contribute to a more natural, beautified beach experience while preserving key recreational spaces.
The details
By planting native coastal vegetation and using low-profile sand fencing in a checkerboard pattern, the dunes will naturally capture wind-blown sand, grow to heights of around three feet over time, and form a living barrier that buffers inland infrastructure and properties. This "working with nature" approach also sequesters carbon and aligns with broader climate adaptation strategies outlined in the city's Local Coastal Program and hazard mitigation plans.
- The pilot site of about three acres was established in 2016 near the Annenberg Community Beach House.
- An additional five acres were added in 2024.
- The current Phase III expansion of nearly 30 acres was announced in late February 2026.
The players
City of Santa Monica
A local government entity leading the dune restoration project in partnership with The Bay Foundation.
The Bay Foundation (TBF)
A non-profit organization collaborating with the City of Santa Monica on the dune restoration project and managing the modified beach grooming practices to allow the dunes to thrive.
What’s next
The project is expected to continue expanding the dune restoration efforts along the entirety of Santa Monica's beachfront in the coming years.
The takeaway
Santa Monica's ambitious dune restoration project is a model for coastal communities seeking to enhance their natural defenses against the growing threats of sea-level rise and climate change, while also improving habitat, biodiversity, and the overall beach experience for residents and visitors.
