Follow the Blue Flag: The Cleanest and Most Beautiful Beaches

Not all beaches are created equal; some are noticeably better than others. And the best of the best are beaches marked with a «Blue Flag». What kind of flag is this, who awards it, for what, and to whom – let's find out.

What does the «Blue Flag» mean?

If yellow, red, and black flags indicate danger for swimming, then the «Blue Flag» is their complete opposite. However, it is not awarded based on situational indicators, but by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). This international organization is dedicated to raising the level of environmental education and public awareness about sustainable development issues. To receive the «Blue Flag», beaches are assessed according to the following five parameters:

1. Bathing water quality must meet high standards of cleanliness and safety to ensure that both people and wildlife are protected from hazardous chemicals or other sources of pollution. The coastline should be free of industrial wastewater, sewage, and even algae, so that the water remains clear and beautiful.
2. Accessibility: Blue Flag beaches must be easily accessible to all visitors, including children, adults, and people with disabilities. This requires ramps, toilets, changing tables for families with young children, and a clear navigation system.
3. Safety: Beaches must be equipped with lifeguard towers and first aid stations. A sufficient number of on-duty lifeguards is also required, depending on the size and popularity of the area.
4. Environmental management: It is necessary to regularly monitor the condition of beaches and pollution levels to ensure an adequate level of environmental safety. This concept includes the maintenance of erected facilities, waste collection, and recycling containers.
5. Environmental education: At least five different environmental education activities must be organized. These can include informational signs about local species and ecosystems, as well as active events dedicated to nature conservation and restoration.

Blue Flag Beaches in Russia

Central Beach, Yantarny settlement

Not in the warm Black Sea regions, but on the Baltic. A wooden promenade runs along the coastline, so if lounging on a sunbed and sipping juice isn't your priority, you can simply stroll along the beach and park. And yes, a green area is also nearby – M. Becker Park. 700 meters of clean, light sand and all the necessary infrastructure for relaxation – simply wonderful!

«Shahta Anna», Yantarny settlement

Free, wide, long, gently sloping, natural, and the first to receive the «Blue Flag» in Russia. One of the best beaches on the Baltic coast. It's definitely worth visiting if you've booked tickets to Kaliningrad. It got its name in honor of the amber mine of the same name, which was located here many years ago.

«Chaika», Adler

Pebble, well-maintained, and clean, otherwise it wouldn't have received the «Blue Flag». We deservedly included it among the best beaches in Adler and the Krasnodar Krai in general. It's great for families with children thanks to its gentle slope. Length – about 700 meters, width – about 25, there's enough space for everyone!

Blue Flag Beaches Abroad

Belcekiz, Oludeniz

A blue lagoon surrounded by pine trees, 15 km from Fethiye. Its postcard-perfect view is especially stunning from the air. It's no surprise that a large paragliding center has settled nearby. However, the sea depths here are also attractive, so there's a diving school on the western part of the shore. Belcekiz has received the «Blue Flag» annually since 2013, so book tickets to Dalaman and choose a nearby hotel!

Mermerli (Marble), Antalya

Miniature and paid, but right in the city center. It's located near the old port, right behind the restaurant of the same name. You can buy an entrance ticket there. It's truly a very beautiful natural corner, where all the necessary infrastructure is neatly integrated. The descent to the water is gradual, so you can safely come here to swim with children.

Jumeirah, Dubai

This is one of Dubai's most famous and visited beaches, so it's no surprise that the city also wanted to add «Blue Flag certified» to it. Jumeirah Beach is primarily known for offering views of the Burj Al Arab, one of the resort's main attractions. The sand here is white, the atmosphere is calm, and beach access is free, making the best luxury of this opulent city accessible to virtually everyone.

Tip: On a windless day, rent a SUP or kayak to take unique photos against the backdrop of the «Sail».

Corniche, Abu Dhabi

The main advantage of this beach is that it is separated from the bay by two islands, so there are never large waves here. The water remains clean, clear, turquoise, and the sand is white. Its length is quite impressive – a full 8 km! This large space has been divided into three parts for greater convenience. The free Al Sahil is suitable for groups and solo tourists, while zones 2 and 3 are paid, secluded from prying eyes, and therefore more appealing to families with children.

Elafonisi, Greece

To reach this fabulously beautiful beach, you'll have to travel several tens of kilometers. Elafonisi is located on the island of Crete, 76 km from Chania and 43 km from Kastelli. In Greek, its name means «deer island», but you're unlikely to find deer here. People come here to see the exotic pink sand, formed by the inclusion of tiny shells. Combined with the gentle blue water, it creates a delightful landscape and leaves an unforgettable impression.

Zlatni Rat, Croatia

Here, the name is quite obvious: «Golden Horn» and it indeed resembles a golden horn. It is located on the Croatian island of Brač. The narrow sandy strip stretches for 634 meters and constantly changes its shape due to currents. The Mistral wind constantly blows here, which is why windsurfers love to visit the beach, and the air on the coast is filled with the scent of pine resin, bark, and needles. The easiest way to get to the island and the «Golden Cape» is from Split, Croatia.

San Vito Lo Capo, Italy

Sicily's best beach is located 37 km from Trapani and 95 km from Palermo. So, upon arriving in Sicily, you'll need to rent a car to get to this place. The water near the shore has a magnificent azure hue, and the sandy strip stretches for a full three kilometers. Of course, there are sun loungers, cafes, umbrellas, and other amenities here. An undeniable plus is the gently increasing depth without underwater currents.

By the way, there are about 4800 beaches from 50 countries in the ranking!