‘Blue Flag’ status is among the most coveted by coastal havens, signifying that a beach meets high standards for water quality, hygiene and facilities.
This year, Spain has hit a new record, with 794 beaches awarded the title – 151 of which can be found across the popular Costa Blanca region.
Spain also received 111 Blue Flags for marinas and six tourist boats in the 2026 awards.
From peaceful havens in Menorca to buzzing alternatives in Barcelona, there’s something for all tastes.
Here, the Daily Mail has compiled a rundown of some of Spain’s best Blue Flag beaches for you to peruse…
Cala Lanuza, El Campello
Cala Lanuza in El Campello on the Costa Blanca is hailed for its clear waters
For the first time this year, Cala Lanuza has been handed a Blue Flag award.
The sandy beach is surrounded by palm trees, and the nearby rocks make it ideal for snorkelling and looking for crabs.
It may be lively during the peak season in the summer, but for the rest of the year it offers a serene ambience.
In the evenings, however, it really shines, with live music and a beach bar.
Cala Galdana, Menorca
Next up is Cala Galdana in Menorca, where you can enjoy the scenery and luxurious boats
Impressive white-sand beach Cala Galdana in Menorca has a cove-like structure, making it a picture-perfect backdrop for a summer holiday.
Its water quality and safety features – such as lifeguards during the peak season – contribute to its ranking among Spain’s Blue Flag beaches.
‘One of the best beaches in Menorca,’ one rave Tripadvisor review reads, with another adding: ‘This beach is amazing, crystal water and golden sand. Lots of amazing restaurants nearby too. Fantastic scenery, great for a romantic couples holiday and busy enough for family holidays too.’
Son Bou, Menorca
Son Bou is the second beach in Menorca to make the list
The longest beach in Menorca, at 2.5km, Son Bou has everything you might want during a summer holiday: blue waters, sandy shores, imposing cliffs framing the scenery.
It’s perfect for families, as a result of its shallow waters making it easy to paddle.
‘Definitely one of the most beautiful beaches in Menorca, one of the largest with a crystal-clear sea. It feels like swimming in a pool with wonderful colours. Really worth seeing,’ one visitor explained.
Praia das Catedrais, Galicia
Praia das Catedrais – Beach of the Cathedrals – is a must-visit spot in the region
One of the region’s most spectacular stretches of coast is As Catedrais, or ‘the cathedrals’.
The 1.5km-long beach earned its name from the Gothic-looking rock towers and arches on its sands. It’s all natural – despite the fact it looks like a movie set.
Be aware – you may need to book in advance from July to September, as you can only access the beach during low tide.
Burriana, Nerja
Playa Burriana at Nerja on the Costa del Sol is very popular with tourists
Loyal holidaymakers and locals flock back to Burriana in Nerja time and time again – citing the abundance of amenities and vibrant atmosphere as key draws.
It’s often considered one of the best beaches on the Costa Del Sol – and is budget-friendly, too.
One visitor wrote: ‘Beautifully located beach with everything your heart desires. Chiringuitos (small beach bars common in Spain), bars, restaurants, shops. Like everything in Nerja: lively, busy, great atmosphere.’
Es Figueral, Ibiza
Ibiza is set to see hordes of tourists descend on its shores – and Es Figueral is likely to be popular
Laid-back is hardly the way most would describe Ibiza, with many heading to the region for a party holiday – but in truth, parts of the coast are exactly that.
Es Figueral is perfect for those seeking a taste of peace and quiet, with golden sands, lifeguards operating and cliff backdrops.
One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: ‘This is a lovely flat clean beach. There are loads of beds and umbrellas. Loads of water sport activities at reasonable prices.’
Playa del Reducto, Lanzarote
Playa del Reducto in Lanzarote is next up on the list
Lanzarote is a British favourite – and if you’re visiting, be sure to stop at Playa del Reducto.
It is the main urban beach in Arrecife – and with that comes a whole host of cafes, bars and restaurants to peruse.
Plus, it’s one of the cleanest beaches in the Canary Islands, and has had Blue Flag status since 2018.
Cala Cortina, Murcia
Cala Cortina in Murcia is tranquil, a far cry from some of Spain’s busier beaches
Cala Cortina brings a taste of calm to the Spanish coastline, often described as a ‘hidden gem’ by those who have soaked up some rays here.
It’s great for those who enjoy cliff walks, and the nearby historic city of Cartagena is great for anyone seeking a taste of history, with many Roman ruins to explore.
‘A charming and intimate beach,’ one visitor wrote, with another adding: ‘Gorgeous spot with great views, historic sites and a lovely cove beach.’
Playa de la Malagueta, Malaga
Playa la Malagueta is a social hub in Malaga, ideal for beach days and picnics
Playa la Malagueta is Malaga’s urban beach and has an impressive 4.4 stars out of 5 rating on Google Reviews.
A visitor wrote on the platform: ‘Playa la Malagueta is the perfect beach to unwind while visiting Malaga. This sandy stretch offers gorgeous views of the Mediterranean and plenty of space to relax.’
Playa De La Malagueta is busy, but you can find a nice picnic spot near the lighthouse.
Sant Miquel Beach, Barcelona
Sant Miquel Beach in Barcelona rounds out the list of top Blue Flag beaches
Sant Miquel Beach in Barcelona, Spain, is one of the best sandy beaches in the area.
It’s known for having an especially lively ambience, with families flocking to its shores during the warmer months.
One visitor wrote: ‘After the elegance of the Platja de Sant Sebastià, here is the Platja de Sant Miquel: a long strip of sand between beach bars, chiringuiti and crowded walks. From here you can fully breathe the tourist soul of Barceloneta: lively, lively, true.’
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