Blue Flag Ireland

Blue Flag Ireland The Blue Flag recognizes sustainable management of beaches, marinas and boating tourism operations worldwide.

The Blue Flag is operated in Ireland by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education. The concept of the Blue Flag originated in France in 1985. The criteria for the Blue Flag award covered sewage treatment and bathing water quality. FEE presented this concept to the European Commission, and subsequently the Blue Flag Programme was launched

in 1987 as one of several “European Year of the Environment” activities in the European Community. In 1987, 244 beaches and 208 marinas from 10 countries were awarded the Blue Flag. Since 1987 the number of beaches and marinas participating in the programme has increased, despite ever-stricter criteria. In 2004, 2,333 beaches and 605 marinas were awarded the Blue Flag throughout the world. In 2016 more than 4000 sites were awarded Blue Flag status worldwide.

In Ireland, the Blue Flag award season coincides with the bathing season, which runs from 1 June to 15 September each ye...
31/05/2026

In Ireland, the Blue Flag award season coincides with the bathing season, which runs from 1 June to 15 September each year. To protect bather health, all Blue Flag beaches are required to have an excellent water quality classification. The rolling classification is based upon the most recent four years of microbiological
data (E. coli and Intestinal Enterococci).

As Blue Flags fly for the first time in 2026 this weekend make sure to check the Blue Flag noticeboard for the latest water quality. If you are planning on going for a dip make sure to check out the lifeguard times and follow the safety flags. An explanation of the both the water quality requirements and safety flags is posted at the common Blue Flag information board at awarded beaches.

Check out the full list of Blue Flag beaches in Ireland for 2026 at beachawards.ie/blue-flag

26/05/2026

Video Highlights: Blue Flag and Green Coast Awards 2026 (15-05-2026) hosted by at The Mall, Youghal, Co. Cork.

These awards bestow international recognition on our beaches, marinas and boats and follow the highest standards with regard to water quality, health and safety, environmental management, information provision and inclusion. A massive thanks to all the Local Authorities, marina and boat operators and local community groups for their hard work manging these sites. We continue to work with them to protect our shores.

The Blue Flag programme in Ireland is supported by the .localgov.heritage.The Green Coast Award is operated by with the support of the and

Today, on International Biodiversity Day, we are reminded that every coastline, habitat, species, and ecosystem plays a ...
22/05/2026

Today, on International Biodiversity Day, we are reminded that every coastline, habitat, species, and ecosystem plays a vital role in protecting our planet.

Through the Blue Flag programme, we continue working together to care for our beaches, waterways, and natural environments, preserving them for future generations.

As the National operators of the programme in Ireland, are proud to announce the Blue Flag Award recipients in Ireland...
15/05/2026

As the National operators of the programme in Ireland, are proud to announce the Blue Flag Award recipients in Ireland for the 2026 season.

Celebrating excellence along Irish shores, something exciting to look forward to!The Blue Flag Awards 2026 are coming so...
12/05/2026

Celebrating excellence along Irish shores, something exciting to look forward to!

The Blue Flag Awards 2026 are coming soon

What to expect from a beach...!!
24/04/2026

What to expect from a beach...!!

From application to international recognition 🌍💙 This is how awards are earned
21/04/2026

From application to international recognition 🌍💙

This is how awards are earned

At the heart of the Blue Flag programme is a strict commitment to excellent water quality.To earn and retain Blue Flag s...
13/04/2026

At the heart of the Blue Flag programme is a strict commitment to excellent water quality.

To earn and retain Blue Flag status, bathing waters must meet the highest international standards, regularly tested for cleanliness, safety, and environmental health

The Blue Flag International programme is built around criteria focused on six core pillars that ensure our beaches and m...
01/04/2026

The Blue Flag International programme is built around criteria focused on six core pillars that ensure our beaches and marinas meet the highest environmental and quality standards:

💧 Water Quality
📚 Environmental Education
♿ Accessibility
🌍 Climate Action
🌿 Biodiversity Management
🛟 Safety & Services

Through adhering with the award criteria, programme participants help protect our coastal environments while ensuring they remain safe, inclusive, and enjoyable for everyone.

Follow for more information.

🌊 Name the Beach! This stunning stretch of coastline is located in Cork!Golden sands, rolling dunes… and a story shaped ...
24/03/2026

🌊 Name the Beach!
This stunning stretch of coastline is located in Cork!

Golden sands, rolling dunes… and a story shaped by the sea 🌬️

👀 Hint: This beach was formed after 1755 Tsunami.

Think you know it? Drop your guess below ⬇️

Address

Blue Flag Ireland, An Taisce, 5 Foster Place, Dublin 2, D02 VOP9
Dublin
D08TN88

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9:15am - 5pm
Wednesday 9:15am - 5pm
Thursday 9:15am - 5pm
Friday 9:15am - 5pm

Telephone

+35314002229

Website

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