What is Blue Flag?

The iconic Blue Flag is an internationally recognised voluntary sustainability programme for beaches, marinas, and tourism boats.

In order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a comprehensive set of environmental, educational, safety and accessibility must be met. Sites and operators must demonstrate compliance with applicable criteria and maintain compliance during the award period.

Central to the ideals of the Blue Flag programme is the aim of connecting the public with their surroundings and encouraging them to learn more about their environment. As such, environmental education activities must be offered and promoted in addition to a permanent display of information relevant to the site in terms of biodiversity, ecosystems and environmental phenomena.

Education, high bathing water quality, well-managed coasts, safety and accessibility

Operated by Foundation for Environmental Education

Discover Blue Flag around the world. Explore our interactive map to find awarded beaches, marinas, and tourism boats, and learn more about each Blue Flag site.

We encourage visitors to consult our national members’ webpages for more detailed information: National Offices — Blue Flag