Going to the beach isn’t just enjoyable; it’s good for your health, as many studies have found. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, your mind starts to relax, and stress melts away, naturally boosting your mood. The feel of soft sands beneath your toes and the sounds of the waves are incredibly soothing, while the saltwater can even promote healing and enhance the immune system.
Of course, you’ll want the beach and the saltwater to be clean. Some beaches are stunning, but their good looks hide the fact that raw sewage is flowing in (yikes!) or the water is polluted by plastic trash, ruining the quality. That means before you book that next beach vacation, it’s essential to check how clean and environmentally sound the destination you’re considering really is.
One good way to ensure a positive experience is to look for beaches that are Blue Flag certified. This designation is one of the world’s most recognized, awarded to stretches that meet and maintain 33 criteria across six categories, such as stringent water safety, environmental quality, and pollution management.
The Country with the Most Blue Flag Beaches
Even easier than poring through thousands of beaches is checking the latest Top 10 list. At No. 1? Spain. Of the nearly 5,300 beaches, tour boats, and marinas in 52 countries that have been certified as of June, Spain is home to the most Blue Flag beaches, with an impressive 676.
As Condé Nast Traveler notes, the country boasts 5,000 miles of coastline. That includes the Cantabrian Coast in the north, spanning from Galicia in the west through Asturias and Cantabria, ending at the edge of Basque Country. It’s perfect for those seeking a getaway without the thick crowds many of Spain’s other regions are known for, such as Costa Brava and the famous Balearic Islands. There’s plenty to love along the southern Mediterranean coast too, as the publication highlights.
While it may be busier, the Andalusia region is home to beautiful Playa Burriana. Located in the resort town of Nerja, it offers plenty of amenities, including lounger rentals and a library for borrowing books, while shops, souvenir stands, and restaurants are steps away.
Rounding Out the Top 10
While Spain has the most, there are nine other countries well worth considering with plenty of Blue Flag beaches to choose from, including Greece with 624, Turkey with 580, Italy with 525, Portugal with 396, France with 387, Denmark with 140, Mexico (the only nation in the Top 10 outside of Europe) with 103, Ireland with 85, and Croatia with 78.
Now that you have the data, it’s time to get booking and enjoy some of the cleanest beaches on Earth!
