Santa Monica Beach (Photo – Mike McBey)
California is known for its breathtaking coastlines, but did you know that nearly every drop of water in the state eventually finds its way to the ocean? That means the snack wrapper or bottle cap you spot on the sidewalk could end up in our waters, breaking down into harmful microplastics that threaten marine life.
By News Desk
This is where you come in. On Saturday, September 20, 2025, thousands of volunteers will unite across California for California Coastal Cleanup Day, the largest volunteer event in the state and the biggest environmental cleanup in the world!
As part of the International Coastal Cleanup, this annual event is an opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to protect our oceans and waterways.
Introducing the Trashure Hunt: Fun and Prizes Await!
This year’s event comes with an exciting twist: the Trashure Hunt! Volunteers at cleanup sites across California will have the chance to discover hidden “trash treasures”that can be exchanged for cool prizes. It’s a fun way to encourage participation while making sure we’re all working together to keep our environment clean.
Whether you’re cleaning up along the coast, in a local creek, or even on your neighborhood street, you’ll be helping prevent trash from reaching the ocean, making a real difference in the fight against pollution.
The event will take place from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
How You Can Get Involved
Getting involved is easy, and there are plenty of ways to participate:
- Find a Cleanup Site:
Check the Coastal Cleanup Day interactive map to find a volunteer site near you. Some sites require pre-registration, while others welcome walk-ups. - Sign the Waiver:
Be sure to complete the online waiver in advance and bring your confirmation email (or a printed copy) to your cleanup site. - Bring Reusable Supplies:
Help reduce waste by bringing your own gloves, bucket, and water bottle. If you don’t have supplies, no worries, cleanup kits will be available at most locations. - Show Up and Clean Up:
Arrive at your designated cleanup site at the scheduled time (9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) and check in with the event staff to get started!
Can’t Attend in Person? There Are Still Ways to Help!
If you can’t make it to a cleanup site, there are still plenty of ways to contribute to the cause:
- Donate:
Your gift will support Coastal Cleanup Day and fund ongoing stewardship and restoration projects in California state parks. - Do Your Own Cleanup:
Organize your own neighborhood or school cleanup. You can track your efforts and share your impact using the Clean Swell app by Ocean Conservancy. - Support & Share:
Spread the word by posting photos and stories of your cleanup on social media with the hashtag #CoastalCleanupDay and tag @calparks on Instagram and Facebook, or @californiaparks on Bluesky. Inspire others to join the movement! - Purchase a T-Shirt:
Show your support for California’s coast by purchasing an official Coastal Cleanup Day T-shirt. Proceeds go directly to support the event and the ongoing fight against pollution.
Why This Matters
The trash you pick up at your local cleanup site can have a huge impact. California’s waterways, beaches, rivers, and creeks, are all interconnected. Litter in one area can quickly find its way to the ocean. By participating in Coastal Cleanup Day, you’re helping prevent pollution from entering our waters, protecting marine life, and improving the health of the environment for future generations.
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