Cyprus has awarded Blue Flag status to 56 beaches and two marinas for 2026, reflecting the island’s commitment to maintaining high standards of water quality and environmental management.
Photo: en.philenews.com
Significant Changes in Award Numbers
The latest announcement reveals a decrease from last year’s tally of 64 beaches and two marinas. This reduction is primarily due to the decision by the municipalities of Limassol and Amathus to refrain from submitting applications this year. Increased pollution incidents reported in 2025 contributed to this decision.
Continued Excellence in Protaras and Ayia Napa
The Paralimni-Deryneia municipality notably excelled, recording the highest number of awards with 18 beaches in the Protaras area receiving the Blue Flag for 2026. Ayia Napa also maintained a strong presence, with numerous recognised beaches, showcasing the area’s dedication to environmental standards.
Recognition at the Award Ceremony
The award ceremony took place on Thursday at Nisi beach in Ayia Napa, attended by Agriculture Minister Maria Panayiotou. During the event, she highlighted Cyprus’s impressive ranking as the top country in Europe for bathing water quality based on the three most recent assessments by the European Commission.
Criteria for Blue Flag Status
Minister Panayiotou explained that the Blue Flag status is not easily attained. It requires “excellent” bathing water quality under European standards, alongside compliance with 33 strict criteria for beaches and 38 for marinas. This rigorous process ensures that the awarded locations uphold high standards of cleanliness, safety, and environmental management.
Collaboration for Water Quality
The achievement of high water quality is attributed to the continuous monitoring and cooperation between various entities, including the Department of Environment, Health Services, the State General Laboratory, CYMEPA, and local authorities. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of joint responsibility in maintaining the island’s pristine beaches.
A Full List of Awarded Beaches and Marinas
The following beaches and marinas have been awarded the Blue Flag for 2026:
- Paphos: Kafizis, Laourou, Coral Bay, Kotsiatis (Sandy Beach), Palaiokastro (Venus Beach), Faros, Municipal Baths, Alikes, Vrysoudi B, Vrysoudi A, Pachyammos 1, Pachyammos 2, Polis Chrysochous Municipal Beach, Geroskipou Public Beach.
- Limassol: Pissouri, Kourion, Limassol Marina, Parekklisia Community Beach, Governor’s Beach.
- Larnaca: Mackenzie, Kastella, Finikoudes, Yiannades.
- Ayia Napa: Agia Thekla, Louma, Ayia Napa Marina, Ziatzi, Makronissos, Landa, Nissi Bay, Nisi, Vathia Gonia, Pernera, Katsarka, Loukkos tou Manti, Pantachou, Glyki Nero, Ammos tou Kampouri, Limnara (Kermia), Konnos.
- Protaras: Nissia Gardens, Nisia, Vyzakia, Lombardi, Protaras (Fig Tree Bay), Vrysi A, Vrysi B, Vrysi C, Pernera, Louma, Mina, Vrysoudi, Agia Triada, Skoutarospiloi, Kapparis, Armyropigado, Glyki Nero, Potami.
The Future of Blue Flag Beaches in Cyprus
With the reduction in awarded locations this year, the focus will be on improving water quality and addressing pollution incidents to encourage more municipalities to participate in the Blue Flag programme in the future. The ongoing commitment to maintaining Cyprus’s natural beauty and environmental standards is key to ensuring that the island remains an attractive destination for both locals and tourists alike.
