Summer vibes start early, and there’s nothing like planning your next beach getaway. Beyond beautiful sand and crystal-clear water, the world’s best beaches also focus on cleanliness, safety, and sustainability.
The Blue Flag is a global award for beaches, marinas, and boats that meet strict standards for water quality, safety, environmental care, and facilities. Every year, beaches must maintain these standards to keep their award.
Here are the top 10 countries with the most Blue Flag beaches:
-
Spain – 642 beaches
Spain tops the list with the most Blue Flag beaches in the world. Burriana Beach in Nerja is perfect for sunbathing, diving, and even has a beachside library! -
Greece – 623 beaches
Greece is famous for its sandy shores and clear waters. Kampoudi Beach in Halkidiki is kid-friendly and accessible, ideal for families. -
Türkiye – 577 beaches
Antalya’s coastline is stunning. Lara Beach stretches 8 km and is surrounded by luxury resorts and turquoise waters. -
Italy – 487 beaches
Italy’s beaches, like Tropea, offer soft sand, snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking along cliffs. -
Portugal – 404 beaches
Praia da Falésia is famous for red cliffs, pine trees, and clean, well-maintained sand—perfect for nature lovers. -
France – 388 beaches
France’s Plage de Trez Goarem has dunes, colorful birds, and clean waters in a protected environment. -
Denmark – 143 beaches
Søndervig Beach features soft sand, free WiFi, pet-friendly areas, showers, and even a lifeguard school for kids. -
Ireland – 89 beaches
Old Head Beach in Mayo is surrounded by cliffs, perfect for surfing, swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. -
Mexico – 80 beaches
From Playa Santa Maria to Akumal Bay, Mexico’s beaches are great for snorkeling with turtles and soaking up sun. -
England – 77 beaches
West Wittering Beach in Sussex is clean, has campsites, horse riding, and accessible facilities for everyone.