Beach Testing
Beaches Monitored during the Summer
34 public beaches on Lake Erie, Lake Ontario and the Niagara River are tested each week during June, July and August.
Posted Beaches are Unsafe to Swim At
When water tests show unacceptable levels of E. Coli bacteria, a beach is 'posted' with a sign to indicate it is unsafe. A beach might also be 'posted as unsafe' for swimming because of floating debris, oil, excessive weed growth, bad odours and general turbidity.
E. coli bacteria are found in animal and human waste. The presence of E. coli bacteria means that other bacteria, viruses and parasites may be present and therefore may increase a bather's risk of developing a variety of infections.
Risks of Swimming at Posted (Unsafe) Beaches
Swimming in these waters could cause infections of the ear, eye, nose, throat and skin as well as cause diarrhea if the water is ingested.
Young children, the elderly, and those with depressed immune systems are most susceptible to infection.
Public Beaches in Niagara Region
Map & Status of Public Beaches
Find locations of beaches, parking, washroom and the current status of the beach testing.
The City of St. Catharines samples Lakeside, Jones and Garden City beaches each day. Call the St. Catharines Beach Hotline at 905-935-2722 for the current status.
For more information, call Niagara's Beach Hotline at 905-688-8248 ext. 7789 or 1-888-505-6074 ext. 7789.
