Published on
15/05/2026 - 13:04 GMT+2
The international battle for the cleanest and safest beaches in the world remained a Mediterranean affair in 2026, with Spain retaining the world's top spot for Blue Flags and Greece steadily following in second place.
According to the latest results of the Foundation for Environmental Education's international Blue Flag programme, Spain set a new historic record with 794 total awards, of which 677 were for organised beaches. This number is an increase of 44 awards compared to 2025, when the country had accumulated 750 total awards.
Greece retained second place globally with 657 total awards, of which 624 were for beaches, essentially remaining at the same level as in 2025 and continuing to hold around 15% of the world's awarded beaches.
