Spain records a record 677 Blue Flag beaches in 2026

Spain’s Blue Flag program reached a new high in 2026, awarding 677 beaches—the most ever—with the environmental and safety seal, an increase of 35 over the previous year. Including 111 ports and six tourist vessels, the country totals 794 Blue Flag distinctions, representing about 15% of the global count. The Valencian Community leads with 151 beaches, followed by Andalusia (143), Galicia (118) and Catalonia (101). Fourteen beaches earned the flag for the first time and 32 recovered it after previous losses.

Iberostar Selection Andalucía Playa, a five‑star resort on the La Barrosa ecoplaya in Cádiz, was named the Best Beach Resort in Spain at the Premios Turismo de La Razón. The resort highlights its beachfront location, spa, golf facilities and a cuisine that emphasizes local, sustainable products, aligning with the Blue Flag beach’s environmental standards.

Both developments underscore Spain’s strong position in coastal tourism and ongoing focus on sustainable, high‑quality beach experiences.