THREE Galway beaches were among just ten nationwide that have been awarded both a Blue and a Green Flag for their pristine condition.

And in great news for South Galway, Traught Beach in Kinvara has regained its Blue Flag this year after losing it in 2022.

Salthill and Silverstrand Beaches in Galway City and Trá Inis Oirr, which is the main beach on the smallest of the Aran islands, received both the Blue Flag and the Green Coast Award for the 2024 season.

Seven beaches in County Galway will be flying the Blue Flag this summer while a further six beaches received the coveted Green Coast Award for 2024.

Long Point at Loughrea Lake, Portumna bathing area, Trá Inis Oirr, Trá an Dóilín in An Cheathrú Rua, An Trá Mhór in Indreabhán and Trá Chill Mhuirbhigh on Inis Mór. The two neighbouring city beaches – Salthill Beach and Silverstrand Beach – add to the impressive Blue Flag tally.

Green Coast awards went to the two other Inis Oirr beaches – Trá Poll na gCaorach and Trá Inis Oirr – and two Inisbofin hotspots Dumhach Beach and East End Bay. Added to the list are Aillebrack/Silver Hill in Ballyconneely and Renvyle Beach, also known as The Whitestrand.

County Galway Cathaoirleach Liam Carroll told the national awards ceremony held in Salthill that the awards are a testament to the hard work and dedication of those who clean our beaches.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said the local authority was grateful to the staff in area offices, community wardens and all volunteers and beach clean groups for all their hard work and dedication in ensuring our coastline is kept clean.

Pictured: Salthill beach: one of just ten beaches in Ireland to retain both Blue and Green Flag status.