The gentle ocean breeze in Marina del Rey, California, typically brings relief and joy to residents and visitors alike. But when spring arrives, that same breeze can carry unwelcome guests—pollen and allergens—that transform our coastal paradise into a challenging environment for many. If you’ve found yourself reaching for tissues more often lately or waking up with congestion, you’re not alone. Spring allergies affect countless Marina del Rey residents each year, turning what should be a beautiful season into weeks of discomfort.
At Del Rey MD, we understand this isn’t just about sneezing and watery eyes—it’s about how these symptoms impact your daily life, from disturbed sleep to decreased productivity and missed outdoor activities with loved ones. This guide will help you identify what’s causing your symptoms and provide practical solutions to help you breathe freely again, allowing you to fully embrace our beautiful coastal springtime.
What’s Causing Your Allergies in Marina del Rey?
Spring in coastal Southern California brings more than just sea breezes. It brings pollen—lots of it. Even though Marina del Rey and surrounding areas don’t have the same thick tree cover as inland regions, we’re still surrounded by allergy triggers:
- Olive Trees: Common in landscaping throughout Venice and Playa Vista, olive trees start pollinating in March, often causing strong reactions among locals.
- Bermuda Grass: Found in parks and yards, especially around the Ballona Wetlands, Bermuda grass is a significant source of pollen from late spring through summer.
- Sagebrush and Ragweed: These wild plants thrive in dry areas between developments and along trails. Their pollen is lightweight and can travel far, especially on ocean winds.
- Ocean Breezes: Those refreshing ocean breezes that we love? They also carry pollen deeper into neighborhoods and right into your sinuses.
And let’s not forget: those ocean breezes that feel so refreshing? They also carry pollen deeper into neighborhoods and right into your sinuses.
How to Breathe Easier This Spring in Marina del Rey
You can’t avoid spring entirely, but you can take steps to reduce your exposure and feel better day to day.
1.  Keep windows closed on high-pollen days.
It’s tempting to let the ocean breeze in, but this also brings pollen indoors. Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to keep your home environment clean.
2.  Shower after being outside.
Pollen sticks to your hair, skin, and clothes. A quick rinse when you get home can make a huge difference, especially before bed.
3.  Watch local pollen counts.
Use apps or websites that track pollen levels (such as pollen.com) in Marina del Rey and Playa Vista. On high-pollen days, try to stay indoors during mid-morning and early evening when levels tend to spike.
4.  Rinse your sinuses.
Saline sprays or nasal irrigation systems like a neti pot can help flush out allergens before they settle in.
5.  Look beyond daily allergy meds.
If you’re still struggling even with over-the-counter options, it might be time to talk to a provider. Chronic sinus inflammation can make allergy symptoms worse and harder to manage.
Your Path to Breathing Freely Again
If spring feels like a yearly battle with no relief in sight, it might not just be allergies. Swollen sinuses, frequent congestion, or sinus pressure that never really goes away can be signs of a deeper issue.
At Del Rey MD, we offer balloon sinuplasty—a gentle, in-office procedure designed to open blocked sinuses and restore normal airflow. It’s more than symptom relief. It’s about giving your body back the ability to breathe clearly, effortlessly, like it was meant to.
Spring shouldn’t feel like a season you have to survive. If allergies and sinus issues are stealing your joy, let’s change that. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief.
