The state Parks and Recreation Commission said Wednesday it will shut off access to the beach at South Whidbey State Park for the summer due to damage from winter storms.

High tides, waves and heavy rains also prompted a mudslide which left the stairs to the beach unstable.

The Beach Trail at the state park is a popular destination for residents and visitors to Whidbey Island. A barricade has been placed about three-quarters of the way down the trail, which is the only way to reach the beach.

Park officials warn visitors not to go beyond the barricade because the area is extremely unstable due to the mudslide.