Greece has once again cemented its reputation as one of the world's premier coastal destinations, securing 624 Blue Flag awards for its beaches in 2026 and retaining second place globally among 51 participating countries.
The results were announced by the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN), the national operator of the internationally recognised Blue Flag Programme, during a special ceremony held at the Ploes Floating Venue in Palaio Faliro. In total, Greece received 658 awards this year, including 624 beaches, 17 marinas and 17 tourist boats.
The achievement means that approximately 14% of all Blue Flag-awarded beaches worldwide are located in Greece, highlighting the country's continued commitment to high environmental standards, safety and quality across its coastline.
What Is the Blue Flag Programme?
The Blue Flag is one of the world's most recognised environmental certifications for beaches, marinas and sustainable tourism vessels. Operated internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), the programme sets rigorous standards for water quality, environmental management, safety, accessibility and environmental education.
To earn a Blue Flag, beaches must meet and maintain strict criteria throughout the bathing season, ensuring excellent water quality, proper safety measures, responsible environmental management and facilities that support accessibility and sustainability.
For travellers, the Blue Flag serves as a trusted indicator of clean, safe and well-managed coastal destinations.
Crete & Halkidiki Lead the Rankings
Crete once again emerged as Greece's leading region, receiving 154 Blue Flag distinctions across the island. Halkidiki maintained its position as the country's top regional unit, with an impressive 93 awarded beaches.
Many of Greece's most popular destinations, including Rhodes, Corfu, Kos, the Peloponnese and Attica, also featured prominently in the rankings, reflecting a nationwide commitment to preserving the quality of the country's coastal environment.
Globally, the International Blue Flag Jury awarded 4,378 beaches, 747 marinas and 158 tourist boats. Spain retained first place worldwide, whilst Greece comfortably secured second position for another consecutive year.
More Than A Tourism Award
Whilst the Blue Flag is often associated with tourism and beach quality, its environmental impact extends far beyond visitor experience.
Among those attending the announcement ceremony was Panagiota Theodorou, Legal and Institutional Affairs Co-ordinator at ARCHELON – the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece. As a member of the National Judging Committee for the Blue Flag Programme in Greece, she highlighted the importance of the scheme in protecting critical nesting habitats for sea turtles.
According to
ARCHELON, the implementation of environmental criteria and appropriate management measures on awarded beaches contributes significantly to safeguarding sensitive coastal ecosystems and the breeding habitats of endangered sea turtles.
The organisation continues to work closely with local authorities, beach managers and environmental organisations to ensure that sea turtle conservation is integrated into the sustainable management of Greece's coastlines.
Top Regions for Blue Flag Beaches in Greece
Some of the country's leading Blue Flag destinations for 2026 include:
These destinations continue to attract visitors from around the world seeking pristine waters, well-managed beaches and exceptional natural beauty.
A Positive Sign For Sustainable Tourism
As travellers increasingly seek destinations that combine natural beauty with sustainability, Greece's continued success in the Blue Flag Programme highlights not only the quality of its coastline but also the country's ongoing commitment to responsible tourism and environmental stewardship.
Whether you're planning an island escape, a family holiday or a seaside retreat, the 2026 Blue Flag awards offer an excellent guide to some of Greece's cleanest, safest and most environmentally responsible beaches.
For the full list of awarded beaches, marinas and tourist boats, visit the official Blue Flag Programme website.
