The municipalities of Olhão and Tavira led the Algarve rankings, with three beaches each receiving the distinction. Faro followed with two beaches, while Lagos and Vila do Bispo each had one beach included on the list.

The “Zero Pollution” classification is awarded to beaches where no microbiological contamination has been detected over the past three bathing seasons and where water quality has consistently received an “excellent” rating during that period.

Across Portugal, 73 beaches received the classification this year, representing around 11 percent of the country’s bathing waters. That figure marks a slight decrease compared to last year.

Nationally, Grândola topped the rankings with six beaches recognised for water quality, while Porto Santo had five.

Of the 73 beaches awarded, 45 are located on mainland Portugal, with the remainder spread across the Azores and Madeira.

The association also called on the Portuguese Environment Agency to continue improving public information regarding beach water quality and temporary bathing restrictions. It highlighted the importance of the “Info Água” platform in helping residents and visitors monitor conditions throughout the bathing season.