NRDC issued star ratings to 200 popular beaches around the country. The star system awards up to five stars to each popular beach for exceptionally low violation rates and strong testing and safety practices.
Criteria include testing more than once a week, notifying the public as soon as tests reveal bacterial levels violating health standards, and posting closings and advisories both online and at the beach.
North Carolina Beaches listed by county and beach name/location
Brunswick Ocean Pier at Causeway and First St.
Brunswick Ocean pier at Main St. and Sunset Blvd.
Carteret Ocean end of Central Dr., Atlantic Ocean
Carteret Mile post 19 1/2, oceanside
Currituck Corolla Lighthouse Beach Access
Currituck Currituck S Beach Access at Pine island
Dare Nags Head Nags Head Bath House
Dare Beach at Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Hanover Ocean Pier at K. Ave.
New Hanover Ocean pier at Salisbury St. public access
Pender Public access #O-10 at Ocean Blvd and Crews Ave.
Pender Public access at S. Shore Dr. and Kinston Ave.
Only 13 beaches in the U.S. received a 5-start rating - none of which are in North Carolina, but view them here.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.