Catalonia maintains its hegemony on the Mediterranean coast with a total of 101 beaches and 24 ports awarded the Blue Flag. This international distinction certifies the environmental quality and services of coastal areas in 47 countries on five continents.
The balance of this edition reflects stability in the beaches but growth in the marinas. The number of awarded beaches is equivalent to that registered in 2025, while the ports add a new badge compared to the previous year.
Sitges-Aiguadolç recovers the distinction
The port of Sitges-Aiguadolç once again flies the blue flag after completing a period of renovation works that kept the certification suspended during recent years. Its reincorporation reinforces Barcelona's presence on the list of sustainable nautical infrastructures.
The territorial distribution shows a notable balance between the four coastal demarcations. The regions of Girona lead the ranking with 27 distinguished beaches, followed very closely by Barcelona with 24 accreditations.
Penedès and Tarragona technically tie with 23 flags each, while the Ebro Lands contribute 8 spaces recognized for their impeccable management.
"The blue flags are an international recognition of constant and rigorous environmental management work" - Sílvia Paneque, counselor of Territory
In the port area, Girona concentrates 9 awarded facilities. Barcelona has 8 distinguished docks and Tarragona together with the Ebro Lands add up to 7 ports that meet the demanding criteria of safety and environmental education.
New badge for interpretation centers
The administration has introduced a significant novelty this year through the creation of the Blue Center seal. Fifteen Catalan interpretation centers have received this pilot accreditation that expands the scope of certification beyond the strictly beach environment.
This initiative seeks to integrate environmental education in museum and outreach spaces linked to the coast. The measure aims to foster a deeper ecological awareness among visitors and residents.
"Catalonia's leadership in blue ports endorses ports committed to sustainability" - Sílvia Paneque, Minister of Territory
Paneque underlines that these standards of excellence allow the tourism sector to maintain its competitiveness. The counselor directly links this commitment to the protection of the marine environment and the development of responsible nautical activity.
The preservation of the coastline now also depends on that blue economy which demands rigor in each season. The numbers confirm that the Catalan coast remains a European benchmark in public management of its natural resources.