Regular inspections and Blue Flag awards ensure swimming safety, but experts warn that pollution risks remain for parts of the coastline despite recent improvements

Goats roaming freely on Greek beaches are a familiar sight, but each encounter offers its own surprising story—like this recent incident in Syvota

The beaches were removed from both the Greek Blue Flag chapter and the international organization.

The results were based on the first microbiological water quality findings for 2025, released by the Panhellenic Center for Ecological Research.

However, swimmers are cautioned to avoid touching their face after close contact, as the jellyfish can release mucus that may cause mild swelling.

The eastern Mediterranean island of Cyprus takes top honors, with 99.2% of its waters considered as of “excellent” quality

Further east, the aptly named Seychelles Beach on Ikaria, in the northern Aegean, dazzles with its blond sand and turquoise waters reminiscent of the Indian Ocean.

A popular U.S. travel agency, Florida Panhandle, conducted a vast online survey of traveler reviews for beaches worldwide

The beaches failed to meet the set standards, including lacking facilities and environmental protection, the report said.

Adjustments were also made to ensure existing citizen rights, such as those of adjacent businesses, were not affected

In efforts to clamp down on beach and shoreline use violations, the Greek government is now also engaging the public through the ‘MyCoast’ app

Galissas Beach (5) and Myrtos Beach (8) were also included in the top 10 of a new subcategory launched this year called “The World’s Best Sustainable Beaches”.

The decision was made public by a joint ministerial decision on Wednesday

Both Greek beaches were on the list of the best beaches in Europe too

Greek authorities hope the newly-launched, free ‘MyCoast’ app will help clamp down on public beach violations

The top beach is in Albania

These beaches, numbering 198 across the country, fall within the Natura 2000 network and will be off-limits for concession and, by extension, for the placement of umbrellas, sunbeds, etc.

Greek authorities have launched inspections ahead of the summer season aiming to crack down on beach access violations with fines reaching up to 60,000 euros.

Ranked 11th is Andros, a Cycladic island, featuring the captivating "Tis Grias to Pidima Beach," renowned for its mesmerizing hues and distinctive rocky formations submerged in the sea.

With this app, citizens can access the beach area diagram and report any violations, such as unauthorized occupation or exceeding of the lease, directly.