Cyprus records decrease in blue flag awards for 2026

For the 2026 season, 56 beaches and two marinas in Cyprus received the blue flag certification, down from 64 beaches in 2025. The awards ceremony was held on Thursday at Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa, attended by Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment Maria Panayiotou. The decline is largely attributed to the decision by the municipalities of Limassol and Amathounta not to submit applications following pollution reports last year. Despite this, other beaches in the Limassol district were included, and both the Limassol and Ayia Napa marinas retained their status. The municipality of Paralimni-Deryneia received the most awards with 18 beaches, followed by a strong showing from Ayia Napa. The Minister highlighted that Cyprus remains a leader in Europe for bathing water quality, based on recent European Commission assessments. The blue flag criteria evaluate water quality, safety, cleanliness, and environmental management.