What is the Blue Flag?
Blue Flag is a label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), a non-profit organisation based in Denmark. This certification is considered the highest level of award given to the cleanest beaches in the world. At the moment, there are ten Blue Flag beaches in India. Running on an eco-tourism model, the organisation works towards encouraging beaches to maintain a safe, healthy and sustainable public space.
The cleanest beach in India is assessed by an eminent International panel consisting of jury members from the UN Environment Programme, UN World Tourism Organisation, Foundation for Environmental Education and IUCN. India Blue Flag beaches need to meet standard FEE criteria before earning the eco title.
What is the criteria to earn a Blue Flag?
To earn a Blue Flag certification, beaches must meet the below criteria:
- Provide adequate environmental information on the beach site
- Meet water quality parameters at the beach
- Invest in environmental management in and around the beach
- Practice adherence to safety and security measures
There were 8 Blue Flag certification beaches in India until recently when Eden Beach in Puducherry and Kovalam Beach in Tamil Nadu also bagged the Blue Flag.
Here is a list of 8 breathtakingly beautiful Blue Flag certified sea beaches in India that you must visit
1. Ghoghla, Diu
Located about 5 kilometres from Diu, Ghoghla Beach is the largest in the area and is a popular tourist spot. One of the few beaches in India with blue water and golden sandy shores, Ghoghla has an open gymnasium, parks for children, a bio-toilet block, changing rooms and a variety of recreational activities for visitors to indulge in. Ghoghla is among the cleanest beaches in India and has rightfully earned the Blue Flag certificate.
2. Shivrajpur, Gujarat
Shivrajpur, near Dwarka, Gujarat, is one of the most beautiful beaches in India. An ideal spot for a weekend getaway with friends, family and children, Shivrajpur beach has something for every kind of traveller. Indulge in wildlife and bird spotting activities, adventure sports, dolphin sighting and natural trails along the crystal clear shores of this Blue Flag beach.
If you have time on your hands, cover these Beaches In Mumbai after Gujarat to experience the best of serenity amidst a bustling city vibe.
3. Kasarkod, Karnataka
Kasarkod in Karnataka is among the top ten Blue Flag beaches in India that boasts mesmerising natural beauty. One of the less frequented sea beaches in India, Kasarkod was developed by the state’s forest and tourism department to promote sustainable tourism and help generate revenue. Five kilometres of sparkling white sand and turquoise waters will welcome you at Kasarkod, as you immerse yourself in the tranquillity of nature.
Along with Kasarkod, there are plenty of Beaches To Visit In Mangalore too.
4. Padubidri, Karnataka
Hidden in the Udupi district of Karnataka is one of the cleanest beaches in the world, Padubidri. A quiet seaside ambiance flanked with silver frothy waves makes Padubidri the ideal spot to indulge in water sports and adventure rides of the open ocean. If you are a nature lover, take a stroll along the shore as you watch a breathtaking sunset turn the clear sky a shade of pinkish-red.
Travelling along the eastern coast? Check out the Best Beaches In Tamil Nadu for a serene holiday with your family.
5. Kappad, Kerala
Known as one of the world’s most beautiful Blue Flag certified beaches, Kappad in Kozhikode, Kerala, has more feathers in its hat than you know. Steeped in historical significance, Kappad beach was used by Vasco da Gama as an entryway to India. Located about 16 kilometres from the city, Kappad is a refreshing day getaway spot to revel in a plethora of activities the area has to offer. From giving you a peek into history dating back over 500 years to boating in the backwaters and touring nearby shacks, this west coast beauty is an undiscovered gem of India.
If you love exploring India’s vibrant coastal treasure trove, these Beaches On The Konkan are a must-visit.
6. Rushikonda, Andhra Pradesh
If you want to visit one of the Blue Flag beaches in India, let it be Rushikonda. Just about 8 kilometres from the port city of Visakhapatnam, Rushikonda is every nature lover's heavenly abode. Encircled by lush greenery, the golden sandy beach and ebbing silver waves of the Bay of Bengal make the beach area enchantingly beautiful. Sit back and relax as you dip your feet in the cool waters that wash away your worries. Or get your adrenaline fix by taking a quick surf session or swimming along the gentle tides before grabbing a bite at nearby restaurants.
7. Radhanagar, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Radhanagar, one of the most picturesque sea beaches in India on Havelock Island, in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is a tropical paradise. Known for its laid-back vibe, Radhanagar won the Time magazine’s title of the best beach in Asia in 2004, and eighteen years later the beach is still as calming as it was. Plus, Andaman & Nicobar Islands are one of the best Beach Destinations In India to visit for a holiday.
Just like Radhanagar, these Beaches In Pondicherry are perfect to spend a lazy weekend sipping coconut water and watching the sunset.
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8. Golden Beach, Odisha
Looking for Blue Flag certification beaches in India? The Golden Beach of Puri, Odisha, is a very popular tourist spot. Pilgrims from across the world frequent its shores as they visit the sacred Jagannath temple nearby. Home to the annual Puri beach festival, Golden beach might not have the fancy water sports, but its glistening shores will wash you over with a warm aura of peace and contentment.
You can also plan a holiday to other Beaches in West Bengal and witness the rich culture of the state.
9. Kovalam Beach, Tamil Nadu
A scenic beach located in the quaint fishing village of Covelong, Kovalam Beach is Tamil Nadu’s shining gem. Located only 40 kilometres from the bustling city of Chennai in the Kanchipuram district, Kovalam, or Covelong Beach, has recently bagged the title of the cleanest beach in India. A popular spot among adventure lovers, visit this pristine beauty and surf along the silver shores of the eastern coast, sunbathe under the golden sun, or learn about the history of the Dutch Fort situated along the beach.
10. Eden Beach, Puducherry
The latest addition to the list of blue flag beaches in India is Eden Beach in Puducherry. Nuzzled between the town’s Arts and Crafts Village and Paradise beach, Eden is lined with verdant coconut plantations that sway against the turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal. Watch a surreal sunset straight out of an artist’s canvas, Eden Beach is a treasure trove of exotic experiences that range from scuba diving and swimming to birdwatching and yoga by the beach.
Our list of Blue Flag beaches in India will take you on a journey through different states, cultures and topographies across the country. Plan a holiday around these areas to witness a unique blend of sustainable and natural beauty. While you execute the perfect holiday, make sure you follow these Beach Fashion Dos And Don’ts and get the most stylish pictures for the ‘gram.