Tide reveals ‘hidden hazard’ on Del Monte Beach in Monterey

A hidden hazard has appeared as extreme tides continue along Central Coast shorelines. Monterey residents hope something can be done to prevent an accident.

According to local divers, remnants of an old pier can be found along Del Monte Beach in Monterey. On Monday, NewsChannel 5 found that when the tide is really low, residents said they see metal beams sticking out of the sand.

Ron Waddy said these rusted metal beams seem like a bad accident waiting to happen for someone who may not know they’re there.

“I saw a rock bed but I saw something sticking out of the rock bed that looked like rusted steel beams and they in fact were rusted steel beams,” Waddy said.

Waddy said last month he discovered the beams on the sand near two pedestrian access points, closest to where Camino Aguajito would cross the beach.

“Probably counted about a dozen of them maybe sticking a couple of feet out of the sand, some straight, some bent,” Waddy said.

This picture from 1920 on the city of Monterey website shows where the old dock used to stand. With pictures to prove the hazard, Waddy said he contacted state park officials, prompting a response from Monterey fire and police to document the objects as well.

“A beach-goer, especially a kid a boogie-boarder, with the right swell, there are waves here and I’m concerned they’ll be sent head first into one of these steel beams,” Waddy said.

On Monday, the posts weren’t visible even during king tide conditions. Some long-time residents said they’re not too concerned because they aware of them.

“When we’re here and they’re showing then I alter where I throw the ball. When they’re not showing I throw the ball and we hope for the best,” said resident Lisa Baron.

But for Waddy, it’s those who may not be aware, like tourists, who he thinks need a heads up. NewsChannel 5 contacted the city of Monterey to learn more about the metal beams and to see if something can be done. We are still waiting to hear back.