Greece Ranks Second in the World for Blue Flag Beaches
Greece has secured the second spot globally for Blue Flag beaches in 2026, with 624 certified beaches across the country earning the internationally recognized environmental award.
The Blue Flag is awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education and signals that a beach meets strict standards for water quality, environmental management, safety, and public access facilities. Landing second in the world puts Greece ahead of nearly every other coastal nation on earth.
Spain holds the top position globally, a ranking it has dominated for years. Greece's 624 certified beaches represent one of the densest concentrations of Blue Flag sites relative to coastline in the world, covering the mainland coast as well as dozens of islands across the Aegean and Ionian seas.
The certification matters beyond bragging rights. Blue Flag status is a direct signal to international visitors that Greek beaches are being managed to a measurable environmental standard, which carries real weight in a country whose economy depends heavily on tourism revenue. Greece's total climbed again this year, continuing a steady upward trend in certifications over the past decade.
The full list of certified beaches for 2026 has been made available through the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature, which administers the program in Greece.
