The water at Tampa's Cypress Point Park is off-limits for now, after routine samples taken on April 1 showed elevated levels of enterococcus bacteria. The Florida Department of Health in Hillsborough County is warning visitors to skip swimming, wading and splashing until follow-up tests show the shoreline is back in a safe range. Trails, green space and picnic areas at the park are still open, but health officials are urging people to steer clear of the water itself.
The formal advisory went out Wednesday after testing at the popular waterfront spot failed to meet state standards for enterococcus, according to Tampa Free Press. The outlet notes that the department posts its latest beach sampling data at FloridaHealth.gov/HealthyBeaches and that the Hillsborough County health office can be reached at 813-559-4065 for local questions.
What The Results Mean
According to the Florida Department of Health Healthy Beaches program, enterococci are intestinal bacteria used as an indicator of fecal pollution, and higher levels are associated with swimming-related gastrointestinal illness and skin rashes.
The state classifies marine water quality as "Good" when tests show 0 to 35 enterococci per 100 milliliters, "Moderate" at 36 to 70, and "Poor" at 71 or greater. A health advisory is issued if a follow-up sample confirms that bacteria counts are above the 70 threshold.
Past Advisories At Cypress Point
Cypress Point is no stranger to temporary swimming shutdowns. DOH-Hillsborough has issued similar water-quality advisories there in previous years, including notices in 2025, according to DOH-Hillsborough press releases. Those advisories show that officials resample affected sites and keep restrictions in place until bacteria levels drop back below the state health standard.
Play It Safe And Check Back
Anyone who recently swam, waded or splashed in the water at Cypress Point should watch for symptoms such as stomach upset, diarrhea or skin rashes and contact a healthcare provider if problems develop. For the latest testing updates, visit the department’s Healthy Beaches pages or call the Hillsborough County health desk at 813-559-4065.
