Eight of Northern Ireland's beaches have been awarded a Blue Flag for 2006.
All but one of last year's beaches were given the award
The Blue Flag is awarded to beaches which pass a strict EU water quality test. It also rewards safety provisions and easy access to facilities.
All but one of last year's beaches were given the award, with Portrush's East Strand being replaced by Ballycastle.
Blue Flag spokesman Ian Cole said Northern Ireland had "eight stunning stretches of sand" to match those in Europe, South Africa or the Caribbean.
Mr Cole said the Blue Flag awards were internationally recognised.
"The foreign feet visiting our sands know that safety and cleanliness is guaranteed because they have the award in their country," he said.
NI'S BLUE FLAG BEACHES
Portrush, West Strand
Last month, the Marine Conservation Society recommended eight Northern Ireland beaches in its Good Beach Guide.
However, it said this figure was low as Northern Ireland's water treatment infrastructure was in dire need of investment, despite reduced beach pollution.