Western Thrace home to 12 Blue Flag Beaches as Greece ranks second worldwide in 2026
Greece has ranked second globally among countries with the cleanest beaches under the internationally recognized Blue Flag program for 2026, according to an announcement by the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature.
Authorities stated that a total of 624 beaches, marinas, and tourist boats across Greece received Blue Flag awards this year, reinforcing the country’s position as one of Europe’s leading sustainable tourism destinations.
In the Western Thrace region, 12 beaches were awarded Blue Flag status for meeting high environmental, safety, and service standards.
Blue Flag Beaches in Western Thrace
In the Evros regional unit, three beaches received the distinction:
In the Rhodope regional unit, four beaches earned Blue Flag certification:
The İskeçe regional unit recorded the highest number of Blue Flag beaches in Western Thrace. Award-winning beaches in İskeçe include:
Officials also noted that nine beaches in Kavala and five beaches on Thassos Island received Blue Flag awards in 2026.
Nationwide, Halkidiki topped the rankings with 93 Blue Flag beaches, while Crete maintained first place among regions with a total of 154 awarded beaches.
Globally, the International Blue Flag Jury awarded 4,378 beaches, 747 marinas, and 158 tourist boats this year.
What Are the Blue Flag Criteria?
The Blue Flag award is considered one of the world’s most prestigious eco-labels for beaches and marinas. Established in 1987, the program evaluates environmental quality, safety, accessibility, and sustainability standards.
Key Criteria Include:
- Excellent bathing water quality
- Regular water testing and pollution monitoring
- Cleanliness and recycling facilities
- Lifeguard and first-aid services
- Accessibility for people with disabilities
- Environmental education and awareness activities
- Protection of natural coastal ecosystems
Authorities emphasized that beaches must maintain “excellent” water quality — not merely “good” standards — in order to qualify for the award. The certification is renewed annually following inspections and laboratory testing conducted by accredited institutions.
Greece ranked 2nd worldwide in the 2026 Blue Flag awards, with 12 beaches in Western Thrace receiving the prestigious environmental distinction. The awards recognize excellence in water quality, safety, and sustainable coastal management.
