Spain has been named the country with the most Blue Flag status beaches in the world for 2026, following the latest international coastline awards. The Foundation for Environmental Education’s (FEE) Blue Flag programme, a globally recognised symbol of beach quality, awarded a record 794 flags to Spanish beaches, marinas, and tourist boats this year.
What is the Blue Flag Programme?
The Blue Flag is an international certification that recognises beaches, marinas, and tourism boats meeting stringent environmental and safety standards. Coastal areas are evaluated based on accessibility, education and information, environmental performance, responsible behaviour, safety, services, and water quality. The initiative began in France in 1985 and is now audited by international juries and controllers.
Spain's Record-Breaking Achievement
Spain holds 15 per cent of the world’s Blue Flag beaches. Seven Spanish beaches, including Alicante’s Sant Joan beach and La Fossa in Calpe, have maintained the award since the programme expanded internationally in 1987. Dr José Palacios Aguilar, president of the FEE’s Spanish branch, stated: “Spain has never before achieved such excellent results in the Blue Flag programme. This success is the fruit of collaboration among municipal, regional, and national entities demonstrating responsible work to meet the demanding criteria.”
Global Rankings for 2026
Greece secured second place with 624 awarded shorelines, including 154 flags in Crete, 17 marinas, and 17 tourist boats. Italy followed with 525 beaches from Sardinia to Puglia meeting the criteria. France recognised 485 sites, while Portugal earned 438 Blue Flags—396 for beaches, 21 for marinas, and 21 for ecotourism vessels.
United Kingdom Results
In Ireland, 95 Blue Flags were awarded for the 2026 bathing season (1 June to 15 September). Managed by Keep Britain Tidy in England, 63 sites met the standards. The south west region boasts 24 Blue Flag beaches, including Porthminster, Summerleaze, and Widemouth Bay in Cornwall. In Wales, 20 shores were recognised by the FEE, such as Rest Bay, Trecco Bay, and Porthcawl Marina. However, Tenby’s North Beach lost its former Blue Flag status due to declining water quality in 2026.
Owen Derbyshire, chief executive of Keep Wales Tidy, commented: “All of these places are beautiful, but seeing that flag flying means visitors can be assured that they are clean, safe, and well-managed with excellent facilities too.”
