The overall objective of this pilot study was to develop and evaluate methods to determine the effect of quality of recreational waters on the health of persons bathing in those waters. There is little scientific evidence upon which to base water quality standards for the safety of persons using recreational waters for primary contact. Results of this study indicated that it is possible to recruit families and follow them via telephone interviews over a three-week period with low attrition. A promotional letter used in conjunction with this study had no positive effect in reducing the attrition rate. The concentrations of the water variables were found to be significantly different (p<0.05) depending on the time of day and day of weekend that they were collected. On the whole, there were no significant differences (p>0.05) in the water variables when measured at five different water sampling locations at each beach. This pilot study does not provide any information about the relationship of health and recreational water quality. However, a subsequent study can now be conducted to survey a large population at beaches of differing water quality to evaluate the relationship of water quality and health.