Recreational Water
Recreational water use is popular in Grey and Bruce counties. These activities can deliver important benefits to health and well-being. Yet, there is the possibility of injury or illness resulting from recreational use if the water is polluted or unsafe. Human illness and infection can be caused by organisms (bacteria, viruses and parasites) that may be present in pools, spas/hot tubs, and natural bodies of water.
Public Beaches

Beaches in Grey and Bruce County have a history of being safe. However, water quality can change from day to day or even hour to hour depending on the weather and other conditions. High bacteria levels usually occur due to weather-related events. The health unit encourages beach goers to make an informed decision about beach water quality in real time before you go swimming. You are the best judge of whether the water is safe to swim!
Before Using a Beach Answer 4 Questions:
When using any beach it is wise to assess the risk before entering the water. You can judge the water quality yourself by answering the following 4 simple questions:
- Is the beach posted with a warning sign?
Do not swim
- Has there been a heavy rainfall in the last 24 to 48 hours, if so, bacteria levels may be higher.
Do not swim
- Is the water so cloudy that you can not see your feet at adult waist depth? Cloudy water may indicate higher bacterial levels.
Do not swim
- Are there any other problems with the beach such as a large number of waterfowl, dead fish, algae/scum, or dangerous debris etc.
Do not swim
If you answered YES to any one of the 4 questions you should NOT swim. The water may have high levels of bacteria that could increase the risk of skin, eye, ear, nose and throat infections or gastrointestinal illness.
Avoid swallowing beach water no matter how clear the water looks!
The following beaches are monitored monthly by Grey Bruce Public Health: