Hundreds of Blue Flag beaches!

Published on 23rd July, 2019

The iconic Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised voluntary eco-labels awarded to beaches, marinas and sustainable boating tourism operators. In order to qualify for the prestigious Blue Flag, a series of stringent environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria must be met and maintained.

Portugal is very proud to have received the accolade for 352 Blue Flag beaches for 2019. Out of this total, 317 have been given to coastal beaches while 35 were granted to inland beaches.

An additional 20 beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag accreditation this year.

The Algarve region will again fly the most Blue Flags, it is at the top of the list with 88 in total. The region has thirteen municipalities with award-winning beaches, two Blue Centres - Loulé and Faro and 125 Environmental Education activities. 

Four of the Algarve’s marinas: Vilamoura, Albufeira, Lagos and Portimão also retained their award.

The Blue Flags are never taken for granted – the Algarve is quite simply spoilt for beaches. Its long coastline offers an amazing mix of soft golden sand and hidden coves, often scattered with limestone caves and grottoes. They are frequently regarded as Europe’s finest beaches - the climate and atmosphere is the Mediterranean, but the sea is the Atlantic so good waves and water sports can be enjoyed in addition to traditional bucket and spade activities for the children. Some beaches and islands off the Ria Formosa are only accessible by boat, further adding to the charm.

So come and see our clean, sandy beaches – and then you will understand why more than €672m worth of property was sold in the Algarve alone in the first quarter of this year!

Published in: Guide to Portugal / News and Updates / Portugal Property / Portuguese Life / Property for sale in Portugal / Site News / Travel