Latest news and stories about blue flag in Portugal for expats and residents.
This year there are eight fewer Blue Flag beaches than in 2025, which is due to weather conditions that occurred during the bathing season and negatively impacted water quality. Praia de Mira is the only one to have maintained the distinction for 40 consecutive years.
Obtaining the award for the bathing season will not be affected due to 'justified reasons'. This mainly concerns beaches in the north and centre of the country.
Portugal records a total of 438 beaches awarded the Blue Flag status for the 2026 season, according to the latest news update.
The Blue Flag was awarded to six fewer beaches compared to 2025.
The number of awards granted fell to 438 this year, reflecting the impact of weather conditions on water quality, although the country remains among the most prominent internationally.
