Twelve Greek beaches have “lost” their “Blue Flag” status this year, as announced by program officials. This environmental award, which is based on the quality of services and coastal infrastructure, was revoked following inspections that identified deficiencies in both organization and implementation of the program’s strict criteria for this summer season.
Read: The two Attica beaches that lost their Blue Flag status – What the revocation means
It should be noted, however, that despite the award withdrawal, water quality remains excellent at all the beaches in question, as emphasized in official announcements: “The withdrawal is made exclusively due to inadequate organization and not because of water cleanliness degradation.”
Reasons for “Blue Flag” withdrawal
Evaluators from the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature and international program partners conducted surprise inspections, identifying deficiencies regarding:
- Service provision to bathers and visitors – including accessibility for people with disabilities.
- Safety issues for visitors.
- Adequate and proper public information regarding beach rules and facilities.
It should be noted that the deadline for displaying the “Blue Flag” was July 1st. According to protocol, members of the National Jury Committee, together with the program’s Coordinating Committee, proceeded with the official withdrawal of the awards to preserve the institution’s prestige and credibility in Greece and internationally.
Officials assure that inspections continue intensively at all award-winning beaches across the country, with emphasis on unannounced visits. If new deficiencies in compliance with criteria are identified, additional official “Blue Flag” withdrawals may follow, with updates in subsequent press releases.
The twelve beaches withdrawn from “Blue Flag” status
The following beaches, which lost their awards for 2025, are:
- Plaka Beach, Municipality of Nafplio, Argolis
- Kondyli Beach, Municipality of Nafplio, Argolis
- Karathona Beach, Municipality of Nafplio, Argolis
- Tolo Beach, Municipality of Nafplio, Argolis
- Lychnos Beach, Municipality of Parga, Preveza
- Georgioupoli/Fereniki Beach, Municipality of Apokoronas, Chania
- Vasilias Beach, Municipality of Skiathos, Sporades
- Kanapitsa Beach, Municipality of Skiathos, Sporades
- Aselinos Beach, Municipality of Skiathos, Sporades
- Gournes Elia Beach, Municipality of Skiathos, Sporades
- Ambelakia/Elivi Beach, Municipality of Skiathos, Sporades
- Fanari/Camping Beach, Municipality of Komotini, Rhodope
This issue highlights the importance of continuous monitoring and care of Greek beaches to maintain the high level of services and infrastructure required by the international character of the “Blue Flag,” the national and international catalog of award-winning beaches.
