Greece has the second-highest number of Blue Flag beaches in the world, an accolade that guarantees beaches of dazzling beauty as well as a commitment to sustainability and excellent amenities.
The Blue Flag program, run by the Copenhagen-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), is one of the globe’s most recognized voluntary awards for beaches, marinas, and tourism boats. It is based on a series of strict water quality, environmental, educational, safety-related, and access-related requirements.
Municipalities of specific countries apply for a Blue Flag and send their requests to the national operator. The National Jury then examines applications for compliance and hands out an approval or rejection on the national level. Approved submissions and dispensation cases are forwarded from the National Jury to the International Jury.
The International Jury carries out an evaluation and determines which beaches and marinas should be awarded the Blue Flag for the season. The organization is made up of eminent members from the FEE Board, UNESCO, the European Network for Accessible Tourism (ENAT), the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the European Union for Coastal Conservation (EUCC), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
All Blue Flags are awarded for one sailing/bathing season, usually from June 1st to September 15th. By reallocating awards each season, the program ensures beaches are constantly living up to the criteria. To date, 5,038 beaches, marinas, and boats across 51 countries have been certified.
Greece’s Blue Flag Beach Accolades
Greece numbered second in the amount of Blue Flag beaches of countries around the world, boasting a staggering 596, 94 of which are in the Halkidiki region on the northern side of the country.
Kampoudi Beach, found near Ouranoupolis in this region, has been awarded three Blue Flags each year since 1951. It’s a long, sandy beach easily accessible by road. It features shallow waters, which is ideal for kids, and is well-equipped with disability-friendly facilities such as ramps in various areas. Guests can sail around the beach or rent a boat and explore the island.
Spain took the top spot, with over 600 pristine beaches, winning a Guinness World Record in 2022 for the most Blue Flag shores, and it has held that record for two consecutive years. One of the cleanest and most beautiful beaches in Spain is Burriana Beach in the southern Spanish resort town of Nerja.
This golden sand paradise has rental sun-loungers, well-looked-after restrooms, a scuba diving area, and even a library. It is flanked by a promenade full of souvenir stands, shops, and a variety of restaurants.
Cyprus placed tenth with 77 Blue Flag beaches, tying the Mediterranean country with England.
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