Twelve Greek beaches were stripped of their “Blue Flag” status after they failed to meet the strict standards set by the world’s most recognized voluntary awards organization.
The beaches were removed from both the Greek Blue Flag chapter and the international organization after a series of unannounced inspections by local and foreign assessors of the organization found the beaches lacked proper amenities for beachgoers and visitors, including safety requirements and correct information posts.
The deadline for hoisting the Blue Flag in Greece was July 1, and following scheduled assessments, the National Jury Committee and the Coordinating Committee of the Blue Flag Program have decided to withdraw the award from 12 beaches to safeguard the program’s credibility and standards.
According to the official announcement, the withdrawals were made due to inadequate beach management, although the water quality at these locations remains excellent, in line with program criteria.
Surprise inspections are continuing across all Blue Flag beaches in Greece. Should further violations of the criteria be identified, additional withdrawals will follow and be publicly announced.
The 12 beaches which have been removed 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
- Lichnos 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
- Ampelakia/Elivi Beach, Municipality of Skiathos, Sporades
- Fanari/Camping Beach, Municipality of Komotini, Rhodope
The Blue Flag is an internationally recognized symbol of high environmental and quality standards for beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators.
