Surfider Beach, Malibu. Photo by the CA Coastal Commission 

Join us at Heal the Bay Aquarium on November 16th from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM to experience the King Tides! Enjoy fun demonstrations and witness this extraordinary natural event from the scenic Santa Monica Beach.

What is a King Tide?

A King Tide is a non-scientific term people often use to describe exceptionally high tides. Tides are long-period waves that roll around the planet as the ocean is “pulled” back and forth by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun as these bodies interact with the Earth in their monthly and yearly orbits. Higher than normal tides typically occur during a new or full moon and when the Moon is at its perigee, or during specific seasons around the country. (National Ocean Service)

Why is it important to monitor King Tides?

King Tides are a wave phenomenon that can only be witnessed a few times a year when the high tide is at its highest, and the low tide is at its lowest. Taking pictures and recording this natural phenomenon can help climate scientists predict the future of California’s coastline in preparation for impending sea level rise, which is the first step toward adapting for and combating the climate crisis. Click here to learn more about why Heal the Bay monitors King Tides.