Greece has been ranked 2nd in the world in the 2026 Blue Flag awards, with 657 certified beaches, marinas, and tourist boats recognized for environmental quality and safety standards. Crete leads all Greek regions with the highest number of Blue Flag sites on the island. The Blue Flag certification guarantees clean water, well-maintained facilities, lifeguard presence, and environmental management at each awarded location. For visitors planning a beach holiday in Crete this summer, Blue Flag beaches are a reliable indicator of water quality and amenities. Look for the blue flag displayed at the entrance of certified beaches. A full list of awarded Cretan beaches is available through the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature, which administers the program in Greece.
