For seven years (2014-2021), Golden State Lifeguards proudly served as the sole provider of beach safety for the Santa Monica Beach Club (Santa Monica North between Los Angeles County towers 2 and 18). During this time, we worked seamlessly alongside Los Angeles County lifeguards without any issues, earning the trust and respect of club members and children alike. Our commitment to safety, professionalism, and exceptional service made us an integral part of the club’s operations, ensuring that beachgoers could enjoy a secure environment.
However, everything changed with the abrupt termination of Nik Amatulli, the Beach Camp Youth Director of 14 years. His removal was widely perceived as retaliatory as the result of a workers compensation claim, and due to our unwavering loyalty to Mr. Amatulli, we were also replaced in addition to other vendors. The new general manager at the time made the decision to bring in an offshore lifeguard company, disregarding our proven track record and the strong relationships we had built over the years. The transition was further complicated by the COVID-19 lockdowns and subsequent political fallout, which led to sweeping changes as per management—much to the dismay of long-time club members.
Now, we have learned that the very general manager responsible for the retaliatory actions has tendered her resignation as of February 2025. This development presents a crucial opportunity to restore proper beach safety measures at Santa Monica Beach Club (Santa Monica North). It is our mission to return and ensure that beachgoers are protected by highly trained professionals who adhere to the highest standards of lifeguarding. We will be working feverishly to make contact with the new incoming general manager when one is hired to ensure our return to Santa Monica North.
The Problem with the Current Offshore Lifeguard Provider
The company that replaced us has gained notoriety for their questionable practices, often being referred to as the “Fake Los Angeles County Lifeguards.” Their presence on Santa Monica Beach North has led to conflicts with legitimate County lifeguards. Among their many violations, they have been caught setting up an unauthorized lifeguard stand and illegally egressing the Santa Monica Beach bike path with a personal vehicle—actions that pose significant safety hazards to the public.
Their lack of proper coordination with official authorities, coupled with their failure to adhere to local regulations, underscores the need for an immediate change. This company has demonstrated time and again that they do not meet the standards required for safeguarding one of California’s most frequented beach areas.
We have brought these grievances to the attention of the previous Santa Monica Mayor Phil Brock and now Mayor Lana Negrete however has fallen on deaf ears. This is very concerning as safety should be paramount.
Our Commitment to Santa Monica Beach Club
Golden State Lifeguards has always operated with integrity, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to public safety. Our history with Santa Monica Beach Club is a testament to our dedication, and we stand ready to reclaim our role in protecting this vital beach community. We believe that members deserve the best in safety services—not an offshore company with a questionable reputation.
As we move forward, we will continue to advocate for proper lifeguard operations at the Santa Monica Beach Club (Santa Monica North). Our goal is clear: to restore effective and reliable beach safety, eliminate unpermitted and substandard lifeguarding services, and ensure that every beachgoer enjoys the level of protection they deserve.
Golden State Lifeguards is ready to step up once again. The fight for Santa Monica Beach Club has begun, and we will not rest until the job is done!