In a recent assessment by the Federal Commission for the Protection Against Sanitary Risks (Cofepris), Oasis Beach, also known as Holi Beach, in Puerto Vallarta, has been declared unsuitable for recreational activities. This decision comes after the beach was found to contain enterococcus bacteria levels ten times higher than the permissible limit of 200 particles per 100 milliliters of water.
Mario Ramírez, head of the Lifeguard area of the Municipal Directorate of Civil Protection and Firefighters, emphasized the proactive measures being taken to ensure public safety. “The beach is not suitable for recreational use, so we, as lifeguards and Civil Protection, carry out our preventive actions, placing the red flag and the lifeguard element going around the beach and alerting people about the risks,” said Ramírez.
Lifeguards are maintaining a vigilant watch over the beach, clearly marking the area with red flags and consistently informing visitors about the potential health risks. As a result of these precautions, many beachgoers have opted to stay out of the water, choosing instead to enjoy the beach environment from the safety of the shore.
“We have not had any negative reaction from bathers. Some simply follow the instructions given to them by the lifeguards,” Ramírez added, noting the general compliance among tourists. The majority of visitors have been redirected to other nearby beaches, which are deemed safe for swimming and other recreational activities. This restriction currently applies exclusively to Oasis Beach, ensuring that visitors can still enjoy Puerto Vallarta’s other pristine locations.
The latest findings by Coprisjal, the local health authority, indicate that the contamination levels at Holi Beach are alarmingly high, with nearly 2000 enterococcus nanoparticles per 100 milliliters of water. The elevated levels pose a significant health risk, as enterococci can cause infections, especially in individuals with open wounds or compromised immune systems. The bacteria’s presence is often indicative of fecal contamination, which can lead to various gastrointestinal and other illnesses.
The Municipal Directorate of Civil Protection and Firefighters is collaborating closely with Cofepris and other health agencies to monitor the situation continuously. They are committed to taking all necessary actions to restore the beach’s safety, including increased water quality testing and potential remediation efforts.
For now, visitors are advised to heed the warnings and avoid entering the water at Holi Beach until further notice. Authorities are working diligently to address the contamination issue, and regular updates will be provided to keep the public informed about when the beach will be safe for recreational use again.
