In this case the beach (at least the portion below the mean high tide line) is already public under California law. The issue tends to revolve around access to

In this case the beach (at least the portion below the mean high tide line) is already public under California law. The issue tends to revolve around access to existing public places. Also, it's not just about conservation. (Public access and conservation are often at odds.) Per the article, "The issue has taken on new meaning as conversations of equity dominate politics."