Water quality at 22 beaches has been rated 'good' by the Environmental Protection Department for this weekend, while 11 others are 'fair'.

There was no change in their grading over last week.

Among them, Clear Water Bay Second, Deep Water Bay, Golden and Silverstrand Beaches are open to swimmers year-round. The other 29 beaches have been opened for swimming in phases since March 1. All are equipped with shark nets.

Seven gazetted beaches - Anglers', Approach, Ting Kau, Casam, Gemini, Hoi Mei Wan and Lido - are closed to swimmers year-round because of poor water quality.

Many beaches are likely to be more polluted than their grades suggest during and after periods of heavy rain, so bathers should avoid swimming at beaches for up to three days after a storm or heavy rainfall.

For updates on beach water quality see the department's website, or call the beach hotline 2511 6666.