The survival of fecal coliforms, fecal streptococci, Salmonella enteritidis and Staphylococcus aureus in sea water (35@1000 salinity) in the dark and at room temperature was evaluated. Staphylococcus aureus has been regarded for a long time as the new parameter to add to the classic ones in order to define the quality and suitability to recreational use. At the sperimental condition considered the survival of fecal coliforms, fecal streptococci, Salmonella enteritidis, and Staphylococcus aureus resulted equal to 48 h, 88 h, 56 h, and 96 h respectively. Fecal coliforms resulted the most sensitive bacteria to osmotic shock while Staphylococcus aureus the most adaptable species. Our results seem to indicate the opportunity of reconsidering the microbiological parameters used for the control of beach water.