All you need to know about India’s 12 Blue Flag beaches; two are in Lakshadweep

Do you know what Blue Flag beaches are? There are beaches around the world that are recognised for their exceptional water quality, environmental management, safety standards, and overall commitment to sustainable tourism. These beaches are given the prestigious Blue Flag designation.

There are over 4000 Blue Flag certified beaches across the world, with Spain leading with a total of 729 blue flag sites. In India we have 12 such beaches. Let’s take a look at these 12 gems.

Also known as Puri Beach, the Golden Beach is Asia’s first ever blue flag certified beach. This iconic beach is a favourite among those travellers that are looking for a quiet beach holiday. Golden Beach is plastic-free, has an excellent waste management system, and has solar-powered facilities. These are just some of the reasons why this beach is deserving of this distinction.

Rushikonda Beach is well-known for its vast clean golden sand, clear blue waters and lush nature all around. This year, you might want to give Goan beaches a break and give Rushikonda a chance. The beach is praised for its facilities like good and clean bathing area and beach safety.

Located in Honavar in Uttara Kannada district, Kasarkod Beach is one of the best beaches in Karnataka. Kasarkod, with its excellent waste management, leads by example. Here at the beach, you will find impressive greywater treatment plants, solid waste management plants, clean drinking water facilities, clean washrooms and changing rooms.

This one is one of the most popular beaches in Gujarat. But being popular does not mean this beach is sloppy. It is anything but that. The waters surrounding Shivrajpur Beach are quiet and perfect for a swim. But make sure you don’t stray away from the demarcated area.

Located in Kozhikode district, Kappad Beach is one of the best beaches in Kerala. Visitors get the best of both worlds – beach and backwaters. Kappad Beach is clean, pristine, tranquil and very beautiful to look at too. There is no dearth of interesting experiences for visitors. Beach management is worthy of praise.

This beach is known around the world as one of the best. In fact, in 2004, Radhanagar Beach was the 7th best beach in the world. The beach is known for its eco-friendly accommodations, clean white sands and unbelievably blue waters. No wonder, Radhanagar Beach is also one of the most loved romantic destinations in India.

Ghoghla Beach in Diu may be one of the most offbeat destinations in India, but its beach and watersport facilities are impressive to say the least. The beach is not crowded, so for those who are looking for a quiet getaway, this is one of the best options.

Padubidri Beach is located in Udupi district, and is one of the prettiest beaches in India. The beach management cares a lot for visitors, which is why there are proper footpaths that visitors can use to walk around the beach area. This is also a litter-free beach.

Kovalam Beach is a tropical paradise that is much loved for its golden sands and azure waters. This popular tourist destination is renowned for its three crescent-shaped beaches—Lighthouse Beach, Hawa Beach, and Samudra Beach. The beachside shacks serve fresh seafood, and Ayurvedic spas.

Eden Beach, known for its tranquillity and natural beauty, is an ideal spot for those seeking solitude. The turquoise waters of the Bay of Bengal and the clean sandy shores provide visitors with a soothing beach getaway.

Minicoy Thundi Beach is a great offbeat getaway with its pristine white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The coral reefs surrounding the beach are great for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The laid-back atmosphere of Minicoy can be best experienced here.

Kadmat Beach in Lakshadweep is a postcard-perfect destination. The powdery white sands, swaying coconut palms, and clear turquoise waters are some of the best features of Kadmat Beach. The beach is renowned for its tranquillity, and makes for an ideal escape for those seeking solitude and relaxation.