What is the Blue Flag??

The Blue Flag is an international certificate of excellence, offered to beaches, ports and pleasure boats that comply with the strictest standards in terms of water quality, safety, the services offered and environmental protection. It is recognized as one of the most prestigious ecological symbols globally..

This program was launched in 1987 by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and, at present, is implemented in 49 countries around the world.

Spain – world leader in Blue Flags

Spain ranks first in the world in terms of the number of Blue Flags every year.. In 2024, the country has obtained no less than 696 distinctions, of which 638 for beaches, 102 for tourist ports and 6 for boats.

Alicante Province received 86 flags in 2024, of which 69 for beaches and 17 for ports/pontoons, which makes the Costa Blanca one of the cleanest and best maintained coastal regions in Europe. This doesn't just attract tourists, but it is also a clear sign of long-term value for property investors.

Beaches awarded the Blue Flag in 2024 (Costa Blanca)

The list includes some of the most popular destinations:

- Denia: Les Bovetes, Les Deveses, Les Marines, Mills, Punta Raset, Marinetta Cassiana;

- Jávea/Xàbia: At the Grave, The Granadella;

- Teulada-Moraira: The Portet, Les Platgetes;

- Benissa: La Fustera, Cala Baladrar;

- The New Village of Benitatxell: Moraig Beach;

- Calpe: The Pit, El Arenal Bowl, Cantal Roig;

- Altea: Cape Blanc, La Roda, The Spigó;

- At Vila Joiosa: Varadero, Centro, At the Cove, Dels Torres, New Year's Eve, Paradise;

- El Campello: Sea Street, Muchavista;

- Alicante: San Juan, At Albufereta;

- Torrevieja: Cabo Cervera, Cala de las Piteras, He Cures, Los Locos, The Castaways, Torrelamata-Sur

Guide to flags on Spanish beaches

Next to the Blue Flag, visitors will encounter various other flags that convey essential information about safety and conditions on the beach. Here's what each one means:

Green - Bathing is allowed; excellent conditions

Yellow - Swimming is allowed with caution; there may be waves or currents

Red - Bathing is prohibited for safety reasons

Black - Beach is closed; contaminated sand or water, health risk

Jellyfish (on white background) - Presence of jellyfish; if it is red, there are over 20 stings/hour

Black and white checkered - Exclusive surfing area; swimming prohibited

Black dot on yellow bottom - Prohibition for boats, surfboards and other equipment

White with blue circle - Diving activity in progress

Triangular pennant - Strong winds; it is recommended not to use inflatable objects

Did you know that... Even if the sea seems calm, especially in eastern Spain, Underwater currents can be extremely dangerous and are not visible to the naked eye.. It is vital to respect the lifeguards' instructions and flag signals..

Why the Blue Flag is important for property buyers?

For those who want to invest in a home in Spain, the proximity to a Blue Flag beach is a real advantage. It is a guarantee of quality of life, but also an element of added value for any property – whether it is used for vacations, rental or as a permanent residence.