Latest EPA report shows majority of Fingal beaches are now rated Excellent or Good 

Bathing water quality in Fingal has improved significantly over the past year, according to the latest Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report. The EPA reports that 98% of bathing waters nationally met or exceeded minimum standards in 2025, demonstrating the continued resilience of Ireland’s bathing waters.

Fingal has 10 designated bathing areas, with half of the areas now classified as Excellent thanks to the rise in status of both Skerries and Sutton. Loughshinny and Portrane have also improved and are now rated as Good, along with Rush South Beach. The improvement at Front Strand, Balbriggan, which has now achieved Sufficient status following a number of challenging years, is also a particularly important milestone.

This year’s report reflects sustained improvements in water quality management across the county and demonstrates the effectiveness of targeted investment, monitoring and collaboration in protecting these important coastal amenities. The focus now must be on continuing this progress and driving further improvements to bring more beaches up to Excellent standard and ensure the highest possible level of water quality is achieved and maintained.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Tom O’Leary said: “The fact that Fingal no longer has beaches classified as Poor reflects a huge amount of work, commitment and collaboration. With the majority of our beaches now rated Excellent or Good, this is something we can all take pride in as we continue to protect and enhance these valuable public amenities. Our ambition is clear - we want to see every beach in Fingal reach Excellent status, and we will continue to invest and work towards achieving that goal.”

David Storey, Director of Environment at Fingal County Council, said: “The EPA report highlights that climate change and increasingly intense rainfall are now key challenges for bathing water quality. In Fingal, where the majority of our beaches are now classified as Excellent or Good and are a valued amenity for communities and visitors alike, this underlines the need for ongoing vigilance and sustained investment to protect and maintain these high standards and ensure these natural assets remain safe and enjoyable for all.”

As summer approaches, Fingal County Council is issuing a clear warning to beach users: littering and dog fouling are unacceptable and have a direct impact on water quality and public health. Visitors must dispose of their waste responsibly, and dog owners must clean up after their pets. These are not optional behaviours - they are essential responsibilities.

Swimmers are advised to always check www.beaches.ie for the latest water quality information before visiting their local bathing site.

Bathing Water Quality 2025

Excellent: Balcarrick Beach, Donabate; Velvet Strand, Portmarnock; North Beach, Rush; South Beach, Skerries; Burrow Beach, Sutton

Good: Loughshinny Beach; Brook Beach, Portrane; South Beach, Rush

Sufficient:  Front Strand, Balbriggan; Claremont Beach, Howth