Lifeguard services at Santa Monica State Beach are provided by the Los Angeles County Fire Department.  Towers 2-16 are located north of the Pier; towers 17 – 29 are located south of the Pier.  Staffing of the lifeguard towers varies seasonally from tower to tower.  The lifeguards are authorized to monitor water and beach safety and beachgoers must obey their direction at all times.  Please contact the Lifeguard Headquarters on Santa Monica State Beach at (310) 394-3261 to inquire about specific hours of operation and staffing.