Nine beaches in Greece lose Blue Flag status after inspections

Authorities stated that the beaches failed to meet the mandatory criteria required by the Blue Flag program, which evaluates not only water quality but also environmental management, safety measures, accessibility and visitor services.

Inspections carried out by the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN) identified significant shortcomings in several areas, including environmental management, services provided to visitors, safety standards and public information practices.

Officials said the inspections were conducted without prior notice and will continue throughout the summer season at Blue Flag beaches across Greece.

According to inspection reports, some beaches were found to have inadequate lifeguard and safety services, insufficient cleanliness and hygiene standards, outdated or missing environmental information boards, and a lack of certain required visitor facilities.

Authorities emphasized that receiving a Blue Flag certification depends on fulfilling a wide range of criteria and is not based solely on the cleanliness of seawater.

The nine beaches removed from the Blue Flag list are:

Paros Island:
- Livadia
- Logaras
- Tsardakia
- Punta
- Chrisi Akti
- New Golden Beach

Chios Island:
- Agia Fotini
- Karfas
- Agios Isidoros

The beaches will remain excluded from national and international Blue Flag lists until the identified deficiencies are addressed.

Greek authorities announced that surprise inspections will continue throughout the summer, warning that additional beaches could lose their certification if similar violations are detected.

The Blue Flag program is recognized as one of the world’s leading coastal quality certifications, assessing environmental standards, safety, accessibility and the quality of services provided to visitors.