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Spain may still top the world rankings for Blue Flag beaches in 2026, but not every stretch of coastline managed to keep hold of the prestigious award this year.

 

The Blue Flag programme, run by the Foundation for Environmental Education since 1987, recognises beaches and marinas that meet strict standards on water quality, safety, accessibility and environmental management. While Spain once again leads the global rankings with 677 awarded beaches, 12 coastal spots have lost their Blue Flag status compared to last year.

 

Some of the names on the list are particularly well known among tourists and holidaymakers, including La Barceloneta in Barcelona, Puerto Banús in Marbella and Cala Fustera in Alicante province.

 

 

1. In Marbella (Málaga): Puerto Banús-Levante

2. In Santa Eularia des Riu (Ibiza): Des Riu

3. In Felanitx (Mallorca): Cala Ferrera

4. In Arona (Tenerife): Los Cristianos

5. In Barcelona: La Barceloneta

6. In Sant Andreu de Llavaners (Barcelona): Barques-Estació

7. In El Vendrell (Tarragona): Coma-ruga Ponent

8. In L'Ametlla de Mar (Tarragona): Calafató

9. In Benissa (Alicante): Cala Fustera

10. In Valencia: Cabanyal

11. In Guesálaz (Navarra): Lerate Bay

12. In Melilla: Hipica Beach

 

There are several reasons why a beach can lose its Blue Flag status and one of the biggest is water quality. If bathing water no longer meets the required environmental standards, the award can quickly disappear.

 

Another common issue is failure to comply with Spain’s Coastal Law, often linked to overcrowding, illegal structures or unauthorised facilities on the beach itself.

 

Safety standards also play a major role. Beaches hoping to keep their Blue Flag must have properly trained lifeguards, first aid equipment and clear signage showing sea conditions and potential hazards. If those services are missing or not maintained properly, inspectors can remove the award.

 

Accessibility is another key factor. Beaches are expected to provide suitable access and facilities for people with reduced mobility and failure to meet those standards can also result in losing the distinction.

 

Environmental management is equally important. Beaches that struggle with litter, overflowing bins, poor waste management or damage to the surrounding natural environment risk falling short of the programme’s requirements.

 

Despite the losses, Spain remains comfortably ahead of other countries when it comes to Blue Flag beaches, once again cementing its reputation as one of Europe’s top summer destinations.

 

Image: Government of the Balearic Islands