Did you know nearly every drop of water in California eventually makes its way to the ocean? That means the snack wrapper or bottle cap you see on the street can end up as ocean trash, breaking down into microplastics and harming marine life.
That’s why thousands of people across California come together each year for California Coastal Cleanup Day, our state’s largest volunteer event. As part of the International Coastal Cleanup, it’s the biggest volunteer event on the planet!
This year’s event on Saturday, September 20, 2025, comes with a fun twist: a Trashure Hunt! Cleanup sites around the state will have hidden “trash” items you can exchange for prizes. It’s a playful way to say thank you to volunteers and encourage folks to keep our waterways clean! Learn how you can join in:
How to Join the Cleanup
Wherever you live in California, you can be part of this effort, from beaches and bays to rivers, creeks, and even neighborhood streets. Here’s how:
- Find a site near you. Check the Coastal Cleanup Day interactive map for local events. Some sites need registration, others allow walk-ups.
- Sign the waiver. Complete the online waiver in advance and bring your confirmation email (or a printed copy).
- Bring reusable supplies. Buckets, gloves, and water bottles help reduce waste, but supplies are available if you need them.
- Show up at your cleanup site at the designated time and day. Check in with on-site cleanup staff and start cleaning!
Can’t Make It? You Can Still Help!
If you can’t join in person, you can still make a difference:
- Donate today! Your gift supports Coastal Cleanup Day and fuels ongoing stewardship and restoration projects in California state parks.
- Do your own cleanup. Organize a neighborhood or schoolyard cleanup and record your impact using the Clean Swell app by Ocean Conservancy.
- Spread the word. Post your cleanup photos and stories with #CoastalCleanupDay and tag @calparks on Instagram and Facebook, and @californiaparks on Bluesky to inspire others.
Why It Matters
California’s state parks protect some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. When we take care of these places, we’re protecting tidepools, sandy beaches, extraordinary habitats, and unique creatures that make our state so special.
That’s why, as a proud sponsor of California Coastal Cleanup Day, California State Parks Foundation is committed to keeping our parks and waterways clean and healthy year-round. With the help of volunteers and donors, we can continue removing trash, restoring habitats, and ensuring these places thrive for future generations.
Every piece of trash picked up makes a difference. When we come together as a community, our collective actions create waves of positive change across the state.
Volunteer With Us All Year Long
This year, we’ll be rolling up our sleeves at Fort Ord Dunes State Park and Half Moon Bay State Beach on Coastal Cleanup Day. Join us at one of these sites to be part of a statewide effort to protect California’s coast and ocean.
Coastal Cleanup Day is a powerful moment, but it doesn’t stop there. At California State Parks Foundation, we host volunteer workdays across the state to remove trash, restore habitat, and protect parks for future generations.
Check out volunteer.calparks.org to see upcoming opportunities, from coastal cleanups to trail repairs, planting projects, and more!
