The Blue Flag eco-certification program is reaffirming Spain’s status as a prime beach destination with the release of its 2018 results. With almost 600 certified beaches, Spain is home to more Blue Flag beaches than any other country in the world (and has been for 31 years and counting).
Started by the Copenhagen-based organization Foundation for Environmental Education in 1987, the Blue Flag program recognizes high-quality beaches in over 47 countries across the globe. Their 2018 list features more than 4,000 beaches and marinas, which have been awarded Blue Flag certification in recognition of their water quality, accessibility, environmental management and amenities. Within Spain, Valencia takes the top spot this year, with 132 beaches and marinas earning Blue Flag status, including La Malvarrosa Beach.
If you won’t be heading to Spain anytime soon, you can still check out some of our local Blue Flag beaches. Twenty-seven Canadian beaches and marinas made the cut this year, with Port Burwell East Beach in Bayham, Ontario and Aboiteau Beach in New Brunswick among the new certifiees.
The full list is set to be released later this week on the Foundation for Environmental Education’s site.
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