Are Houston beaches safe to swim?

HOUSTON - A trip to Texas beaches could leave you and your loved ones sick. A new report by Environment America tested beaches across the U.S. shows for potentially unsafe water quality. It found Texas beaches as a whole did worse than the national average, and some of the worst are in the greater Houston area.



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According to the website, on July 15, 2023, there were 14 Texas beaches that contained medium levels (between 35 and 104 colony-forming units (CFU)/100 ml) of fecal bacteria. When the counts are above this level, swimming is not recommended, and an advisory is issued.

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The Gulf of Mexico may be known to have its fair share of powerful jellyfish, but that doesn't have to ruin your vacation. To be prepared for your trip to one of the many top Galveston beaches, here are the types of jellyfish found in the area and what you should do if you are stung.

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Fecal contamination comes from urban runoff, sewage overflows and manure from industrial livestock production. Roughly half of U.S. beaches tested had potentially unsafe contamination levels in 2022.

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Rockport Beach is often referred to as the “gem of the Texas coast,” and it's easy to see why. This beach is located in a quiet and peaceful town and has been recognized as a Blue Wave Beach, which means it's one of the cleanest and safest beaches in the country.

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Texan beaches like Galveston and South Padre Island are major tourist hotspots and host all sorts of recreational activities like swimming and surfing.

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Texas beaches are more laid back and chill. While less popular and a lot smaller compared to Florida, Texas beaches are conducive for solitary escapes and reflection. Not everyone who goes to the beach is looking to party after all. Before booking a trip, decide on what you want to do.

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Driving the news: A recent study by Environment Texas found that almost every Texas beach tested positive for unsafe levels of fecal bacteria in 2022. What they found: Out of 61 beaches tested, 55 had unsafe levels on at least one testing day.

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SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, Texas (ValleyCentral) — South Padre Island is home to some of the cleanest beach water in Texas. A recent report published by Environment America looked at the bacteria levels of Texas beaches.

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