Seven of the eight beaches open for swimming in winter are rated as good, while Silverstrand is rated as fair, the Environmental Protection Department says.

The seven beaches with good water quality are Big Wave Bay, Clear Water Bay Second, Deep Water Bay, Golden, Middle Bay, Repulse Bay, and Stanley Main.

Compared with last week, Golden Beach has been upgraded from fair to good. The change is generally within the normal range of fluctuation of the bacteriological water quality.

Other beaches have been closed to swimmers since November 1 for the winter season.

Seven beaches - Anglers', Approach, Ting Kau, Casam, Gemini, Hoi Mei Wan and Lido - are closed year round because of poor water quality. People should not swim at these beaches.

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

For more details, click here or call the beach hotline, 2511 6666.