Beaches at center of mixed message COVID-19 controversy

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. - Despite orders to shelter at home and practice social distancing, people flocked to one of the open beaches in Santa Barbara County on Saturday.

Arroyo Burro Beach known to locals as Hendry's Beach had a full parking lot at times.

Although it appeared people were trying to keep their distance, it's difficult to do in a crowded area.

Most of the people at the beach were not wearing masks.

Beaches in the city of Ventura and Los Angeles County are closed to prevent gatherings.

Santa Barbara Mayor Cathy Murillo said Arroyo Burro is not run by the city, but she noticed city beaches empty by comparison.

"I went to Leadbetter Beach and it was not crowded, I am here at East Beach and it is not crowded. Please come here rather than Arroyo Burro Beach or Hendry's," said Murillo in a selfie video.

Last week the mayor said she would fight to keep beach access open as long as people were responsible and maintained physical distancing.

Arroyo Burro Beach is in County Supervisor Gregg Hart's district, but he could not be reached for comment.

Hart is the chair of the Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors and is likely to bring it up at the next COVID19 new conference on Tuesday.