Once again the prestigious Blue Flag awards have been assigned to beaches, marinas, and tourism boats in 47 countries worldwide. Spain continues to lead the way with its beaches, once again boasting the highest number of Blue Flag awards. These prestigious flags are a testament to the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism and beach quality. In this article, we list our top five blue flag beaches in Spain. We also answer the question, what is a blue flag? Let’s take a closer look.

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What is a Blue Flag?

The Blue Flag is an international award the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) gives annually to beaches and marinas that meet strict criteria for water quality, safety, environmental education, and management. In 2024, Spain set a new record with 638 Blue Flag beaches, surpassing last year’s count. This achievement highlights the dedication of Spanish towns to maintaining top-tier beach environments.

Top Five Blue Flag Beaches in Spain

Playa Torre Derribada, San Pedro del Pinatar

Torre Derribada Beach in San Pedro del Pinatar often gets overlooked, it is located in the natural park of Arenales and Salinas. This beach is often less crowded, providing a peaceful escape. What makes it truly special is the journey to the beach itself, which takes you through a natural park flanked by pink salt lakes and flamingos. It’s an experience that combines nature with serenity, making it a standout Blue Flag beach here at The International Reporter.

Playa Sable de Merón, San Vicente de la Barquera

Located between the areas of Comillas and San Vicente de la Barquera and adjacent to the Oyambre Natural Park, Sable de Merón is one of Cantabria’s finest beaches. This two-kilometer stretch of white sand and beautiful dune landscape offers breathtaking marine views. In winter, it transforms into a premier surfing destination thanks to its impressive waves, making it a versatile and stunning Blue Flag beach.

Playa As Catedrais/Playa de las Catedrales, Ribadeo

The Playa de las Catedrales near Ribadeo in Galicia is a spectacular natural wonder. Known for its majestic rock arches that reach up to 30 meters high, this beach is best explored at low tide when you can walk through its caves and beneath its natural buttresses. During the summer months, a reservation is required to visit, ensuring the protection of its pristine environment. Playa As Catedrais is undoubtedly one of Galicia’s top attractions and a worthy Blue Flag beach and a mention in our list.

Playa Burriana, Nerja

Playa Burriana in Nerja is easily accessible from the beautiful white-washed town center. This popular beach in the Axarquia region in the Province of Malaga offers plenty of activities and is unique for being accessible directly via the Parador de Turismo de Nerja’s elevator. Its 800-meter length and 40-meter width of dark sand make it one of Nerja’s busiest beaches, drawing visitors with its excellent amenities and vibrant atmosphere.

Playa de Zahara, Zahara de los Atunes

Located in the charming fishing village of Zahara de los Atunes, Playa de Zahara stretches for six kilometers along the coast of Cádiz. This beach boasts idyllic white sands and a picturesque seaside backdrop. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to relax in a tranquil setting while enjoying the soothing sound of the waves. Playa de Zahara’s combination of natural beauty and traditional charm secures its place as one of Spain‘s top Blue Flag beaches.

Spain’s record number of Blue Flag beaches in 2024 highlights the country’s ongoing dedication to environmental sustainability and tourism quality. Whether you seek serene natural settings, vibrant local culture, or thrilling surf, Spain’s Blue Flag beaches offer something for everyone. These top five beaches are our top pick from the mainland. Let us know which blue flag beach would make your list