Each year the European Environment Agency releases a report of the quality of water at 21,831 bathing sites in the 28 member states and 300 sites in Albania and Switzerland.
In 2018 the number of bathing sites classified with the most stringent quality standard increased slightly to 85.1% compared to 85.0% in 2017.
There were fewer sites that met a "satisfactory" quality in 2018 (95.4%) compared to 2017 (96%).
Cyprus had the highest percentage of excellent water quality bathing sites (99.1%) followed by Malta (98.9%), Austria (97.3%), Greece (97%) and Croatia (94.4%).
"As yesterday's World Environment Day showed, we face many challenges. But it is also good to celebrate the green success stories of the European Union", European Commissioner for the Environment, Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Karmenu Vella said as carried by the EU's press release.
"The quality of European bathing water sites is one such story to which everyone can relate. Through good testing, reporting, monitoring and sharing of expertise, we are sure to continue improving the quality of our favourite swimming spots," he added.