Spain has set a new record for the most Blue Flag beaches, marinas and tourist boats in the world, with 794 sites awarded the prestigious status for 2026. The announcement was made by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), which runs the international Blue Flag programme recognising high-quality coastal areas.
The Blue Flag is awarded to beaches, marinas and tourism boats that meet strict environmental and safety standards. Criteria include water quality, accessibility, environmental education, safety services and responsible behaviour. The programme began in France in 1985 and now operates globally, with international juries auditing each site.
Spain holds 15 per cent of the world's Blue Flags, and seven of its beaches—including Alicante's Sant Joan and La Fossa in Calpe—have held the award continuously since the programme expanded internationally in 1987. Dr José Palacios Aguilar, president of FEE's Spanish branch, said: 'Spain has never before achieved such excellent results. This success is the fruit of collaboration between municipal, regional and national entities.'
Greece came second with 624 Blue Flags, including 154 beaches in Crete. Italy had 525 awarded sites, France 485, and Portugal 438. In Ireland, 95 Blue Flags were granted for the 2026 bathing season, which runs from 1 June to 15 September.
In the UK, England had 63 Blue Flag sites, with 24 in the south west including Porthminster, Summerleaze and Widemouth Bay in Cornwall. Wales saw 20 awards, including Rest Bay, Trecco Bay and Porthcawl Marina. However, Tenby's North Beach lost its Blue Flag due to a decline in water quality. Owen Derbyshire, chief executive of Keep Wales Tidy, said: 'All of these places are beautiful, but seeing that flag flying means visitors can be assured they are clean, safe and well-managed.'
