Editor’s note: This story has been updated. The latest developments appear at the bottom.
BOCA RATON, FL (Boca Post) (Copyright © 2025) — Swimming is temporarily prohibited at Spanish River Park Beach after county health officials detected elevated levels of bacteria in the water during routine testing.
The Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County announced the swim advisory for the popular Boca Raton beach following a recent sample that exceeded state safety thresholds. Officials said the advisory is being issued out of an abundance of caution while additional testing is conducted.
Under the advisory, the beach and park itself remain open to the public, but entering the water is not allowed until further notice. The advisory applies only to swimming; walking, sunbathing, and other non-water activities are still permitted.
Health officials said the elevated bacteria reading indicates a potential increased risk of illness for swimmers, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Exposure to contaminated water can increase the risk of gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, and other health concerns.
According to county health guidance, a swim advisory may be posted when water sample results show bacteria levels above acceptable limits. In some cases, a resampling is conducted to confirm conditions before a health advisory or warning is officially issued. In this instance, the advisory was posted immediately based on the results.
County officials said additional water samples will be collected at Spanish River Park Beach in the coming days to monitor conditions. If follow-up testing shows bacteria levels have returned to a safe range, the advisory could be lifted as soon as 24 to 48 hours after resampling.
Spanish River Park Beach is one of Boca Raton’s most frequently used public beaches, particularly during the winter season when residents and visitors take advantage of cooler temperatures and calmer surf. Temporary swim advisories are not uncommon following changes in weather, ocean conditions, or runoff patterns that can affect coastal water quality.
Officials did not specify the cause of the elevated bacteria levels but noted that environmental factors such as rainfall, tides, and ocean currents can influence water test results. The health department emphasized that conditions can change quickly, which is why ongoing monitoring is conducted throughout the year.
Beachgoers are encouraged to follow posted signage and respect the swim prohibition until the advisory is lifted. Updates on water quality testing and advisories are typically posted by county health officials as new sample results become available.
For now, residents and visitors planning to visit Spanish River Park Beach are advised to stay out of the water and check for updates before returning to swim.
Source: Florida Department of Health of Palm Beach County
UPDATE 12/31 - 4:44 PM: SWIM ADVISORY LIFTED - The no swim advisory has been lifted for Spanish River Beach by the FL Dept. of Health of Palm Beach
