MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — If you're planning on taking a trip to the beach and a dip in the ocean, make sure you avoid these few beaches across the Tampa Bay area. Beaches in Hillsborough and Manatee counties are still being affected by high bacteria levels, prompting "no swim" advisories for several beaches in each county, according to their respective health departments.
Each of these beaches has high enterococci bacteria levels, which usually is found in the intestinal tracts of humans and animals, the Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County said. The bacteria can cause disease, infections and/or rashes.
The bacteria-infected water indicates the presence of fecal pollution, which can come from stormwater runoff, pets and wildlife and sewage.
Under a "no swim" advisory, the beaches remain open, but wading, swimming and water recreation are not recommended.
So what beaches are affected?
Hillsborough County
On July 28, Hillsborough County's health department said a beach advisory was issued for the following beaches:
- Bahia Beach
- Simmons Park Beach
Water samples are scheduled to be collected and retested by Aug. 4.
Manatee County
According to the Department of Health in Manatee County, no-swim advisories are still in effect for four beaches across the county.
- Bayfront Park North
- Manatee Public Beach North
- Coquina Beach North
- Palma Sola South
"No-swim advisories remain in effect at four Manatee beaches," the Manatee DOH tweeted Monday morning. "We should know more about water quality at these sites Wednesday morning (8/3): Bayfront Park North, Manatee Public Beach North, Coquina Beach North and Palma Sola South."
Sarasota County
Good news: All of the beaches that were previously under "no swim" advisories are no longer are affected after water samples were tested on Aug. 1. The "no swim" advisories have been lifted and beachgoers can swim and partake in other water sports, a spokesperson for the city of Venice said.
Is your favorite beach affected?
You can always check out the Florida Department of Health's website for a list of public beaches and their water quality.
The interactive list and map will let you know which beaches have good, moderate or poor water quality and if there is an advisory issued for that beach.
You can find the list below or by clicking here.