Hilton Beach Closed Again to Swimmers Due to Unsafe Bacteria Levels
New Water Quality Advisory for Newport News Beach issued July 9
Hilton Beach has been temporarily closed to swimmers after water samples collected on July 8 showed bacteria levels above Virginia’s recreational water quality standards. The Peninsula Health District announced the swimming advisory on July 9, warning that current conditions pose a risk to public health.
Warning signs have been posted at the beach advising the public not to enter the water. The advisory follows a similar warning issued in mid-June, which was lifted earlier this month after water conditions improved.
The latest water samples detected elevated levels of enterococci, a type of bacteria commonly used to assess fecal contamination in estuarine and marine waters. While enterococci does not directly cause illness, its presence signals the potential for harmful pathogens that can lead to gastrointestinal and other infections—particularly for children, older adults, and people with compromised immune systems.
“Protecting the health of our residents is our top priority,” said Mary Wainwright, Environmental Health Manager for the Peninsula and Hampton Health Districts. “We urge everyone to follow the advisory until testing confirms the water is once again safe for swimming.”
Health officials collected additional samples on July 9, with results expected by July 10. The advisory will be lifted once bacteria levels return to safe thresholds, and the public will be notified accordingly. No announcement lifting the advisory was located by the Newport News Daily.
The Peninsula Health District conducts regular monitoring of beach water quality throughout the summer months as part of its broader mission to protect and promote community well-being. The agency serves the cities of Newport News, Williamsburg, Poquoson, and the counties of York and James City, working in coordination with the Hampton Health District, which covers the City of Hampton.
In addition to water testing, the district provides a wide range of public health services focused on improving access to care, advancing health equity, and fostering partnerships with local governments and community organizations. Guided by values such as respect, collaboration, and a holistic view of health—including housing, transportation, and environmental factors—the district aims to ensure all residents have the resources needed to live healthy, empowered lives.
Residents can find the latest information on water quality and beach advisories by visiting the Virginia Department of Health’s beach monitoring page or by contacting the Peninsula Health District at (757) 594-7411.
A Newport News contributor produced this post using AI tools and the following primary sources:
Swimming Advisory Issued for Hilton Beach in Newport News, Virginia - July 9, 2025
Hampton and Peninsula Health Districts website