Annual Coastal Cleanup Day
Saturday, September 23, 2023
Join volunteers around the world for the largest cleanup event of the year!
Each year Save Our Shores coordinates over 60 cleanup sites around the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, from the coast to our inland parks and waterways.
Trash and pollution impacts the health of our marine, coastal, and terrestrial ecosystems.
We hope you will join us as we come together as a community to make the Monterey Bay a healthier place for all!
Important Site Updates for Volunteers
Santa Cruz County
Road Closures will occur along East Cliff Dr from 7:45am-9:30am for the Little Wharf 3-Miler. Pedestrian access to all beaches is open, please use crosswalks to cross the road closures. More information about the road closures can be found here.
Monterey County
Road Closure starting at 9am on Canyon Del Rey Blvd in the City of Seaside by Laguna Grande Park and City Hall for the Oaxaca by the Sea Festival. Please avoid this section of the road and use alternate routes to get to your cleanup location.
Volunteer on Coastal Cleanup Day
Follow the steps below to register as a volunteer and prepare to join the biggest cleanup event of the year!
Step 1
Register
Step 1: Register to volunteer at your favorite outdoor space. Each site has details on the registration form for the check in location. If you do not see a site listed it means that location is full, please choose another site. If you have a large group please contact volunteer@saveourshores.org before you register to ensure there is space at your desired location.
Step 2
Complete Your Waiver
Complete a digital waiver and bring the confirmation email with you to the event. Having this completed in advance will save you time when you arrive at the cleanup. If you are unable to complete the waiver in advance, paper waivers will be available for you at all cleanup locations.
*Minors must have a waiver completed by a parent or guardian.
Step 3
Get the App
Download the free Clean Swell App from the Ocean Conservancy to collect data on the types of trash you find. Once downloaded create a login and sign in to the app to ensure it works properly. If you are unable to download the app, paper data cards will be available at all cleanup locations.
Step 4
Gear Up
Bring your own gear if you have it! Help us reduce our use of disposables by bringing work gloves, buckets, and trash grabbers. If you do not have supplies, disposable gloves and trash bags will be available at all locations.
Don’t forget to take care of yourself too! Bring a filled reusable water bottle, plastic-free snacks, sun protection, and closed toed shoes so you are ready to take on the day in comfort.
Unable to join the cleanup effort on September 23rd, 2023?
Conduct a self guided cleanup whenever and wherever you can during the whole month of September! Simply download the Clean Swell App to collect data on the types of trash you find, follow the safety steps below, and head out to your favorite spot.
Thank you to our 2023 Sponsors!
Become a Sponsor!
By participating you understand and agree that neither Save Our Shores, the State of California,
California Coastal Commission, nor associated jurisdictions may be held liable or responsible
in any way for any injury, death, or other damages to you or your family, heirs, or assigns that may occur
as a result of your participation, or as a result of product liability or the negligence,
whether passive or active, of any party in connection with the cleanups.