Relaxing on a beach has long been an essential part of our holidays. If you want a clean and eco-friendly beach, you can look for one flying the Blue Flag.
But what does the Blue Flag mean? In order to qualify, beaches must meet and maintain a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility requirements.
Here are 10 of the best Blue Flag-rated beaches around the world.
Cala Paura, Italy
This magnificent beach lies on the Adriatic coast of Italy. It’s a small, pebbled beach right in the heart of Cala Paura. Houses perched on the rocky cliffs above give a dramatic backdrop to your photos. There are also several nearby caves and caverns to explore by boat.
Zlatni rat beach, Croatia
Known as the Golden Cape cape, this breathtaking beach has a unique shape, which changes depending on the tides and winds. You can relax in the shade of a grove of pine trees and then take a dip in the azure waters.
Plage de l’Espiguette, France
An unspoiled hidden gem in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. This beach is nearly 18km of dunes undulating along the shore. As it is part of a nature reserve, there are no fewer amenities than you might usually expect. But if you want to return to nature and relax, this is a great place to do it.
Genoese Castle Beach, Turkey
This beach on the Black Sea Turkish coast has been awarded Blue Flag status several times since 1997. With soothing waves and plenty of nearby historic sites, Genoese Castle Beach offers a lot for those beach goers who like to explore the nearby area.
Cala Mondrago, Majorca
A spectacular beach on the Spanish island of Majorca, Cala Mondrago, is part of a national park. The clear shallow water is excellent for swimming and snorkelling. White sands and verdant trees make this beach feel like a Caribbean hideaway.
Caminha beach, Portugal
Northern Portugal is often overlooked when it comes to beach holidays. Caminha beach is a great choice to get away from it all. Once you’ve enjoyed the idyllic waters and warm sand, you can ride a bicycle along the eco-way on the seafront.
Playa Delfines, Mexico
The rolling turquoise waves of the Caribbean sea caress this top-rated beaches fine, white sand, making it a paradise. Playa Delfines also offers plenty of facilities and shallow waters, making it ideal for family trips. Dolphins are also a common sight in the area.
Praia Grande de Caravelas, Brazil
A wide strip of golden sand and calm, clear water make this spot an excellent place for a beach trip in Brazil. The area also enjoys great weather, which is always a bonus. Like most Blue Flag beaches, the beach is easily accessible for disabled visitors.
Kleinmond Beach, South Africa
This pristine beach is worth a visit, whichever time of the year you visit. In the summer, it’s an excellent locale for waking, tanning or participating in numerous water sports. Whales can be spotted from the beach during the winter, and boat tours are available locally.
Padubidri Beach, India
If you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed beach in India, Padabidri beach is an excellent choice. It’s not as crowded as some other beaches and offers a laid-back atmosphere. Enjoy the sunset after a day of gentle strolls and water sports.
Hopefully, this list has inspired you for your next beach holiday. Remember to arrange comprehensive Travel Insurance before you go.
We’re also in Plastic Free July, so you can do your part to help keep all beaches clear or plastic waste.
Author notes
Written by Russell Wallace, Content Creator at AllClear
Edited by Letitia Smith, M.Sc. Content Manager at AllClear
