Some 94 Irish beaches and marinas have been awarded Blue Flag status for 2023.
The recipients were announced today by environmental organisation An Taisce.
A total of 159 awards - including 65 beaches awarded the Green Coast Award - were presented by Minister for Housing Darragh O'Brien.
"During its 36 years, the Blue Flag has become an internationally recognised symbol of high standards in water quality, environmental management, environmental education and safety," Minister O'Brien said.
"Today’s high number of awards is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the local authorities, An Taisce, local coastal communities and other volunteers around the country."
Which Irish beaches have been awarded Blue Flags for 2023?
Some 81 of the 85 beaches and all 10 marinas awarded last year have retained Blue Flag status.
Three extra beaches in Mayo are included this year, Bertra, Clare Island (Louisburgh) and Old Head, which it was awarded for the first time since 2012.
The Blue Flag is administered in Ireland by An Taisce on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education.
The aim of the Green Coast Award, now in its 20th year, is to recognise beaches of high environmental quality.
Three more Green Coast Awards for Carrowniskey Beach, Co Mayo, Bettystown, Co Meath and Rosslare Harbour Beach in Co Wexford, were awarded this year compared to 2022.
