Spain has once again affirmed its position as the global leader in Blue Flag awards, with a total of 749 distinctions for the summer of 2025. This includes 642 for beaches, 101 for marinas, and six for tourist boats, marking an increase of two from the previous year. The accolades, awarded by the Association for Environmental and Consumer Education (ADEAC), underscore Spain's unwavering commitment to environmental quality, safety, and accessibility across its coastal destinations.
The Principality of Asturias is set to display 14 Blue Flags across its beaches, distributed over eight municipalities. Despite a slight decrease from the previous year, the region continues to be a testament to Spain's diverse and high-quality coastal offerings. Notably, the Gijón sports marina is the sole recipient in the marinas category within Asturias, highlighting the region's focus on maintaining pristine beach conditions over marina expansions.
Globally, Spain and Portugal collectively account for 23% of all Blue Flag awards, with Spain leading in beach distinctions and ranking third for marinas. The Secretary of State for Tourism, Rosario Sánchez Grau, emphasized the role of sustainable destination plans in enhancing and preserving these accolades. Investments in water quality, facilities, and accessibility are pivotal in sustaining Spain's Blue Flag legacy and encouraging first-time achievers.
The Blue Flag program, present in 52 countries across five continents, serves as a benchmark for environmental and quality standards in tourism. Spain's dominance since 1994, with 15% of the world's Blue Flag beaches, reflects a concerted effort by local communities to meet and exceed international criteria. The awards not only celebrate environmental excellence but also bolster Spain's appeal as a top-tier tourist destination committed to sustainability and quality.
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