Fifty-six beaches in Cyprus were awarded Blue Flags in 2026. This represents a noticeable decrease compared to the previous year, when 64 beaches on the island received the prestigious quality certification. Despite the decline, Cyprus remains one of the Mediterranean’s leading destinations in terms of beach infrastructure and water quality.
According to Michalis Ierides, Head of the national Blue Flag organization and Secretary General of the Cyprus Marine Environment Protection Association (Cymepa), the reduction in the number of awarded beaches is linked to the decision by the municipalities of Amathus and Limassol not to submit applications for the program following numerous reports of coastal water pollution during last summer’s tourist season.
What the Blue Flag Award Represents
The Blue Flag is considered one of the most prestigious international environmental certifications for beaches and marinas. The program has been operating for more than forty years and covers dozens of countries worldwide. To receive the award, a beach must meet strict criteria relating to water quality, visitor safety, environmental management, and the level of services provided.
Certified beaches must offer lifeguard services, recycling facilities, information boards, accessibility for people with disabilities, and emergency response plans. Particular emphasis is placed on the regular monitoring of water quality. Any failure to comply with environmental standards may result in the loss or non-renewal of certification.
Which Regions Received the Most Awards?
The municipality of Paralimni-Deryneia led the rankings in 2026, receiving 18 Blue Flag awards. Ayia Napa followed with 16 certified beaches. Amathus received 9 awards, Paphos 6, Geroskipou 3, Larnaca 3, and the Akamas region 2.
In addition, beaches in Oroklini, Zygi, Pentakomo, Parekklisia, Episkopi, Pissouri, and Lempa each received one Blue Flag award. Two Cypriot marinas also maintained the certification: Limassol Marina and Ayia Napa Marina.
Why the Number of Awards Declined
The reduction in the number of Blue Flags does not necessarily indicate a dramatic deterioration in beach quality across the island. The primary reason was the decision by certain municipalities to temporarily withdraw from the program amid increased public attention to incidents of marine pollution.
During last summer, concerns were repeatedly raised regarding the condition of coastal waters in several areas along Cyprus’s southern coastline. Environmental groups and local residents reported pollution incidents that may have been linked to increased pressure on sewage and wastewater treatment systems during the peak tourist season.
Authorities insist that efforts are ongoing to strengthen environmental monitoring and modernize infrastructure in order to restore lost certifications in the future.
Tourism and Environmental Protection Remain Priorities
Blue Flag beaches play an important role in Cyprus’s tourism industry. Many travelers rely on the certification when choosing a holiday destination. As visitor numbers continue to grow, the island’s authorities are placing increasing emphasis on sustainable development, marine ecosystem protection, and improvements to coastal infrastructure.
In recent years, Cyprus has implemented projects aimed at upgrading wastewater treatment facilities, reducing plastic waste, and protecting the marine environment. Experts note that maintaining high environmental standards is no longer solely an ecological issue but also an important factor in ensuring the competitiveness of Cyprus’s tourism sector on the international market.
The full list of beaches and marinas awarded Blue Flag certification for 2026 will be published following the completion of all certification procedures.
In the second paragraph of the article you refer to the decision Amathus and Limassol Municipalities not to submit applications for the programme, but further down you state that Amathus received 9 awards.
Has Amathus received the awards withouth applying ?