Blue flag beaches

The Costa Brava is once again set to be one of Spain’s leading coastal destinations in 2026. This year, almost 30 beaches have retained their Blue Flag status – the international award recognising water quality, safety, services and environmental management.

When summer arrives, many people assume they need to travel to the coast to enjoy a day at the beach. However, despite having no coastline, the Community of Madrid is home to several inland bathing areas where visitors can cool off without leaving the region.

Spain consistently ranks among the top choices in Europe for a relaxed seaside break with children, and it’s easy to see why.

Spain’s Blue Flag results for 2026 are quietly impressive.

The Blue Flag remains one of the most recognised quality marks for beaches in Europe, awarded for water quality, safety standards, environmental management and accessibility.

Spain’s coastline continues to lead the way in 2026, with 677 Blue Flag beaches in total, four more than last year and the highest number of any country worldwide.The recognition goes beyond the sand.

Out in the Atlantic, just off the coast of Galicia in north-west Spain, Ons Island feels quietly removed from the modern world.

Spain has secured two spots in TripAdvisor’s 2026 ranking of the world’s best beaches.

The best beaches in Fuerteventura run over pale Atlantic sands shaped by the trade winds, mixing dune‑backed strands with glassy tidal lagoons. Up north, you’ve got dunes and gentle coves. Down south, it opens into big horizons and the long sweep of Sotavento.

Andalucia's coastline is a remarkable meeting of two seas, encompassing the wild, windswept shores of the Atlantic's Costa de la Luz and the sunny coves of the Mediterranean.

You don’t need to be a sun-chasing expat or a part-time beach bum to spot the little blue flag flapping by the shore these days.

While Barceloneta is the most popular beach in Barcelona's city centre, known for its lively atmosphere and urban backdrop, there are many more tranquil and beautiful beaches just a short journey away.

The famous Blue Flag has been identifying the best beaches in the world for over 30 years.

Spain is known all over the world for its spectacular beaches, and as summer draws nearer, there’s nothing more appealing than just lying back on the soft sand, sunbathing and taking a swim in the sea. If you’re planning your next holiday and you’re looking for somewhere to unwind in the sun, try o

The prestigious Blue Flag rewards the best beaches based on environmental education and training, water quality, environmental management, services and safety. The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), founded in 1981, ensures that coastal sites meet the stringent requirements to display th