When choosing a beach vacation destination, more and more travelers are focusing on environmental friendliness. Find out more about the ranking of the cleanest beaches with the Blue Flag award in 2024

The choice of a vacation destination is largely determined by its sustainability and contribution to helping the environment. Travelers are advised to visit beaches that meet the concept of sustainable development and are suitable for a relaxing family vacation. On such beaches, you can expect clean water, perfect sand, and active environmental initiatives.

Every year, Tripadvisor publishes a rating of the world's best beaches, and this year European destinations prevail. For the first time, the ranking includes a category of the most environmentally friendly beaches, which demonstrates the growing popularity of eco-tourism and environmental protection.

The BeCause travel company presented data on beaches awarded the prestigious Blue Flag from May 2023 to April 2024. This distinction guarantees their cleanliness and safety. When evaluating the beaches for the rating, positive reviews and mentions of "environmental cleanliness", "ecotourism" and "clean water" over the past 12 months were taken into account, which confirms the popularity and demand for environmentally friendly vacation destinations.

Tulum, Mexico

Tulum is located on the Caribbean coast in Mexico. This place is known for its pristine beaches lapped by clear turquoise water, as well as its commitment to sustainable development. This city has become popular among environmentally conscious tourists due to the presence of eco-friendly resorts and beach clubs that use solar energy, collect rainwater, and implement other environmentally friendly practices.

Tulum's beaches are close to the Siang Kaen Biosphere Reserve, where tourists can participate in eco-tourism and explore the region's rich biodiversity. This reserve offers fascinating nature trails and opportunities to observe wild flora and fauna.

In addition, Tulum is famous for its ancient Mayan ruins, which add a historical flavor to the city's natural beauty. These archaeological sites, such as temples and pyramids, testify to the rich history of this region and attract many tourists.

Tulum combines a clean natural environment with exotic beaches, historic ruins and innovative environmental initiatives, making it an attractive destination for those who value nature and sustainability.

When to go: November through March, when the weather is at its best.

Getting there: Arrive at Cancun International Airport and drive or take a shuttle to Tulum.

Nosara, Costa Rica

Nosara, a small beach town in Costa Rica, is an ideal destination for those who value the environment and sustainable development. Famous for its beautiful beaches, Nosara is part of the Ostional Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a key nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles. Here, the community is committed to sustainable living and many hotels and businesses adhere to strict environmental standards.

Nosara offers calm beaches with white sand and warm turquoise water, ideal surfing conditions for beginners and experienced riders. There is also a wide range of yoga studios and wellness centers where you can enjoy meditation and yoga classes to the sounds of nature.

The city offers unique eco-tourism programs that allow tourists to explore the natural wealth of the region with great enthusiasm and respect for the environment. Every visitor can feel a deep connection with nature and experience the energy of this special place where sustainable development becomes a lifestyle.

When to go: From December to April, when it is the dry season.

Getting there: Arrive at Daniel Oduber Kiros International Airport in Liberia and drive to Nosara.

Seychelles

Seychelles, located in the Indian Ocean, stands out in the world of tourism as a leader in sustainable development. This archipelago offers picturesque beaches with crystal clear waters and also demonstrates a great desire to preserve its natural environment. Many resorts in the Seychelles strive to be environmentally friendly, providing luxurious accommodation for tourists with minimal impact on nature.

This archipelago is a true center of biodiversity with unique flora and fauna, as well as several marine protected areas that are preserved and protected. Here you can enjoy a variety of activities such as snorkeling and diving to explore the fascinating underwater world, as well as explore the lush landscapes of the islands.

When to go: April-May and October-November, when the sea is calm and the temperature is comfortable.

Getting there: Fly to Seychelles International Airport on the island of Mahé.

Palawan, Philippines

Palawan, an island province in the Philippines, impresses with its unsurpassed landscapes and great attention to environmental preservation. The province includes such natural wonders as El Nido and Coron, known for their impressive limestone cliffs, clear lagoons and diverse marine life. Palawan is a leader in implementing sustainable tourism initiatives aimed at preserving its natural beauty and supporting local communities.

On the island, you can experience the spirit of eco-friendly vacation through a variety of eco-friendly activities such as diving, kayaking and exploring the Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The province of Palawan not only attracts tourists with its enchanting landscapes, but also serves as an example of environmentally responsible tourism, where nature conservation and support for the local environment are essential. Here you can enjoy the beauty of nature, learn more about the local culture and relax, knowing that your trip will not leave a negative impact on this beautiful place.

When to go: December to March during the dry season.

Getting there: Fly to Puerto Princesa or El Nido.

Kangaroo Island, Australia

Kangaroo Island, located off the coast of South Australia, serves as a wildlife sanctuary and an indicator of sustainable tourism. This island is famous for its unique wildlife, kangaroos, koalas, and various species of birds. On Kangaroo Island, environmentally friendly practices are a priority and many hotels, restaurants and tour operators actively support environmental responsibility.

The island impresses with its pristine beaches, where you can enjoy a quiet vacation on the shore, listening to the sound of the waves and breathing the fresh sea air. In addition, the local cuisine on Kangaroo Island is known for its freshness and flavor. Here you can enjoy dishes from the local nature, such as freshly caught seafood and local wine.

Kangaroo Island is also known for its tranquil atmosphere and clean environment, making it an ideal destination for those looking for inspiration in nature and relaxation in an environmentally friendly environment. Here everyone can find something special for themselves and enjoy the unique natural beauty of the island.

When to go: December to February is the best time for a beach vacation, although wildlife watching on the island is great all year round.

Getting there: Getting there: Fly to Kingscote on Kangaroo Island or take a ferry from Cape Jervis.

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Big Sur, California, USA

Big Sur, on the edge of California's central coast, is famous for its incredible scenery and active support for environmental preservation. The area is known for its dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean, dense redwood forests, and tranquil, pristine coastline. Many hotels and businesses in Big Sur are taking steps to preserve the environment by offering tourists eco-friendly accommodations and outdoor activities.

Traveling to Big Sur is an unforgettable adventure that combines the beauty of the California coast with respect for nature. Here you can enjoy picturesque views while visiting wildlife refuges and national parks, where you will encounter the unique flora and fauna of the region. Guests can visit marine animal sanctuaries, observe wild animals in their natural environment, and enjoy outdoor activities on nature trails and beaches.

Traveling to Big Sur is not only a vacation, but also an opportunity to feel a deep connection with nature, where every step reminds you of the importance of preserving these unique places.

When to go: from April to October, when the weather is best and the roads are cleaner.

Getting there: Take Highway 1 from San Francisco: Take Highway 1 from San Francisco or Los Angeles.

Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, attracts tourists with its beautiful beaches, Mediterranean climate, and sustainable tourism practices. Various environmental initiatives aimed at preserving nature and water resources are actively developing here. The Algarve coast is famous for its combination of sandy beaches, hidden coves and picturesque cliffs, creating the perfect setting for a picturesque and environmentally conscious beach vacation.

This region is also known for its ancient towns, where every street has its own history and where you can enjoy the authentic Portuguese atmosphere. Fresh seafood here is a real delight for the palate, and the local cuisine with all its diversity always delights guests.

In the Algarve, you can enjoy outdoor activities: hiking in natural parks and reserves, as well as birdwatching in the region. Visiting the Algarve, you will feel peace and harmony with nature, illuminated by the Mediterranean sun and the pleasant atmosphere of this magical corner of Portugal.

When to go: May to September for the best beach weather.

Getting there: Fly to Faro airport.

Bonaire, Caribbean Netherlands

The island of Bonaire, part of the Caribbean Netherlands, is known for its leading position in the field of marine conservation and eco-tourism. The island is surrounded by a protected marine park, which is an ideal place for snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean, where you can find an incredible variety of marine life.

Bonaire has a special commitment to conservation through its sustainable practices. The island uses renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, and is actively engaged in water conservation. There is a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, making Bonaire an example for other regions.

The island's beaches are known for their tranquil atmosphere and pristine coasts, which creates ideal conditions for an eco-friendly beach vacation. Here you can enjoy pure nature, relax from the hustle and bustle of city life, and explore the unique seascapes and rich underwater life. When you visit Bonaire, you will get an unforgettable experience of the island's one-of-a-kind ecological atmosphere.

When to go: May through October for the best diving conditions and fewer crowds.

How to get there: Getting there: Fly to Flamingo International Airport in Kralendijk.

Gili Islands, Indonesia

The Gili Islands, consisting of three small islands near Lombok in Indonesia, are famous for their serene beaches, clear waters and eco-friendly approach to tourism. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the Gilis, which contributes to a peaceful and clean environment. This approach helps to preserve the nature of the islands in an unchanged state for future generations.

The Gili Islands offer ideal conditions for snorkeling and diving due to the rich underwater life and diverse coral reefs. Local conservation and reef restoration efforts play an important role in maintaining biodiversity and the health of the marine environment.

Accommodation on the islands is diverse: from eco-lodges to eco-friendly luxury resorts. Each hotel or resort adheres to environmental standards to meet the needs of environmentally conscious travelers. Here you can enjoy the beauty of nature without harming it and find peace and harmony in the cleanest environment.

When to go: from May to October, when it is dry season and the best underwater visibility.

Getting there: How to get there: Fly to Lombok and take a boat to the Gili Islands.

Vancouver Island, Canada

Vancouver Island in Canada is known for its natural beauty and environmental consciousness that impresses tourists from all over the world. It is a place where the rugged coastline meets lush rainforests, creating unparalleled landscapes. Vancouver's beaches in Tofino and Ucluelet are not only attractive for their beauty, but are also known for their support of sustainable tourism. Here, visitors can enjoy whale watching, practice surfing, and explore the unique Pacific Coast National Park and Reserve.

Vancouver Island prides itself on its environmental awareness, which is evident in all areas of life on the island. Eco-friendly living practices are practiced here, from stylish housing to local cuisine that uses local ingredients. Conservation efforts are evident in all aspects of island life, ensuring that tourists can enjoy the island's natural resources without harming the environment.

When to go: June to September to enjoy the best weather and outdoor activities.

Getting there: Fly to Victoria or Vancouver and take a ferry to Vancouver Island.

An eco-friendly beach vacation will allow you to enjoy some of the most beautiful coastal locations in the world while supporting sustainable and responsible tourism. From the crystal-clear waters of the Gili Islands to the rugged beauty of Big Sur, each of these places offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature. Enjoy the sun, sea and sustainability while knowing that your trip is part of a larger effort to protect our world's natural wonders.

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Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World

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