Greece accounts for 15% of all awarded beaches globally, among 52 participating countries, with 623 beaches, 17 marinas, and 17 tourist boats receiving the Blue Flag certification, according to the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature (HSPN).
Chalkidiki region led the country with 93 Blue Flags, while the island of Crete maintained its top position among Greek regions with a total of 153 awards. Worldwide, 4,302 beaches, 736 marinas, and 158 tourist boats were honored.
The Blue Flag program is internationally recognized as the leading eco-label, awarded to beaches and marinas that meet ”excellent” water quality standards alongside strict criteria for cleanliness, safety, management, and environmental protection.
33 criteria for beaches (38 for marinas and 51 for boats) must be met. These criteria cover cleanliness, organization, information, safety of bathers and visitors, protection of the natural wealth of the beach and coastal area, and environmental awareness.
