Summer vibes start early, and there’s nothing better than planning your next beach getaway. Sun, sand, and clear water make a beach perfect, but the world’s best beaches are about more than just looks. They focus on cleanliness, safety, and protecting the environment. This is where Blue Flag beaches come in.
Blue Flag beaches are part of a global program that awards beaches, marinas, and boats meeting strict standards. These standards include clean water, good safety measures, proper facilities, and care for the environment. Every year, beaches must maintain these standards to keep their Blue Flag beaches status, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
If you want a beach holiday that is both fun and sustainable, checking out Blue Flag beaches is a great idea. Here’s a look at the top countries with the most Blue Flag beaches in 2026.
Spain – 642 Blue Flag Beaches
Spain leads the world with the most Blue Flag beaches. Its coastline is full of beautiful, well-maintained beaches. One standout is Burriana Beach in Nerja. This beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and even diving. Families love it because it has kid-friendly facilities and fun extras like a beachside library. Spain’s beaches combine natural beauty with convenience, making them top choices for summer travelers.
Greece – 623 Blue Flag Beaches
Greece is another country famous for Blue Flag beaches. The clear blue water and soft sand make it a dream for beach lovers. Halkidiki’s Kampoudi Beach is perfect for families, offering shallow waters, accessible paths, and safe swimming areas. Many of Greece’s Blue Flag beaches are known for excellent facilities, including sunbeds, showers, and restaurants, giving visitors both comfort and peace of mind.
Türkiye – 577 Blue Flag Beaches
Türkiye’s coastline along the Mediterranean is dotted with stunning Blue Flag beaches. Antalya is home to 231 of them, and one of the most popular is Lara Beach. Stretching 8 kilometers, Lara Beach has turquoise waters, soft sand, and luxury resorts nearby. Whether you’re looking for water sports, sunbathing, or relaxing by the shore, Türkiye’s Blue Flag beaches offer an unforgettable holiday experience.
Italy – 487 Blue Flag Beaches
Italy is famous not only for its food and history but also for its beaches. Tropea Beach, one of Italy’s Blue Flag beaches, offers soft sand, clear waters, and water sports like snorkeling and kayaking. Many of Italy’s Blue Flag beaches are located near cliffs and nature trails, making them ideal for combining beach fun with sightseeing.
Portugal – 404 Blue Flag Beaches
Portugal’s coastline has some of Europe’s most scenic Blue Flag beaches. Praia da Falésia is known for its red cliffs, pine trees, and long stretches of clean sand. These beaches are perfect for nature lovers who want both relaxation and adventure. Portugal’s Blue Flag beaches are carefully maintained, with clean water, safety measures, and facilities for visitors.
France – 388 Blue Flag Beaches
France also has many Blue Flag beaches, including Plage de Trez Goarem in Brittany. This beach is surrounded by dunes, colorful birds, and pristine waters. France’s Blue Flag beaches prioritize protecting wildlife while offering excellent visitor services. Families and solo travelers alike enjoy these clean and peaceful beaches.
Denmark – 143 Blue Flag Beaches
Denmark may be smaller in numbers, but its Blue Flag beaches are high quality. Søndervig Beach stands out with soft sand, free WiFi, showers, and pet-friendly areas. There’s even a mini lifeguard school for kids. Danish Blue Flag beaches combine safety, cleanliness, and fun in ways that make them ideal for families and beach enthusiasts.
Ireland – 89 Blue Flag Beaches
Ireland’s Blue Flag beaches are perfect for those who love a mix of adventure and relaxation. Old Head Beach in Mayo is surrounded by cliffs, offering activities like swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and fishing. Ireland’s Blue Flag beaches are known for their natural beauty, clean waters, and well-maintained surroundings.
Mexico – 80 Blue Flag Beaches
Mexico has beautiful Blue Flag beaches, especially in tourist areas like Los Cabos and Riviera Maya. Playa Santa Maria and Akumal Bay are popular for snorkeling and spotting marine life. The warm water, clear visibility, and clean sands make Mexico’s Blue Flag beaches perfect for family holidays or romantic getaways.
England – 77 Blue Flag Beaches
England also has excellent Blue Flag beaches, with West Wittering Beach in Sussex being a favorite. Visitors enjoy camping, horse riding, and swimming. These beaches focus on accessibility, safety, and clean environments. England’s Blue Flag beaches are great for families, solo travelers, and anyone who loves well-maintained coastal spots.
Why Choose Blue Flag Beaches
Choosing Blue Flag beaches for your next vacation ensures a safe, clean, and enjoyable experience. These beaches are inspected regularly and must meet strict international standards. Visitors can relax knowing the water is clean, lifeguards are on duty, and facilities are reliable. Plus, many of these beaches support sustainability efforts, helping protect marine life and coastal ecosystems.
Whether you are planning a family trip, a romantic getaway, or an adventure with friends, Blue Flag beaches are the perfect choice. From the sun-drenched coasts of Spain to the cliffs of Ireland and the tropical waters of Mexico, there is a Blue Flag beach for everyone.