In a significant recognition of environmental sustainability and safety, the Blue Flag award has been bestowed upon 202 locations across the Netherlands in 2025. This prestigious international accolade is given to beaches and marinas that meet stringent criteria concerning cleanliness, safety, and environmental management. Among the recipients are 145 marinas, 50 beaches, and 7 inland beaches, marking a strong commitment to maintaining high standards in recreational areas.
The awards were ceremoniously presented on May 9, 2025, at Aquacamping and Jachthaven De Rakken in Woudsend, where representatives from various certified locations proudly accepted their flags from Patrick Poelmann, the jury chairman, and Michel Rietman, a council member from the municipality of Súdwest-Fryslân. "The Blue Flag is a symbol of quality and care for the environment that has been recognized in the Netherlands since the 1980s," remarked Erik van Dijk, the national coordinator for the Blue Flag program in the country.
Notably, the harbor of Volendam is among the newly awarded locations, celebrating its commitment to providing clean and safe swimming conditions. The Blue Flag is not just a badge of honor; it signifies that the location adheres to critical standards, including excellent swimming water quality, which must meet the EU classification of 'excellent'. The jury expressed satisfaction that many more beaches can now fly the Blue Flag due to improved water quality.
In addition to the Blue Flag, 30 marinas have also received the Groene Wimpel, an additional distinction for those demonstrating exceptional dedication to sustainable practices and environmental management. This recognition reflects a growing trend among municipalities and businesses in the Netherlands to prioritize sustainability in their operations. "This increase in certified locations over the years shows that sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority," van Dijk added.
The beaches in the municipality of Bergen also received the Blue Flag and the Groene Wimpel in 2025. The locations including Bergen aan Zee, Egmond-Binnen, Egmond aan Zee, Hargen aan Zee, Schoorl aan Zee, and Camperduin have all been acknowledged for their cleanliness and safety. During a festive meeting on May 8, 2025, Alderman Marco Wiesehahn-Vrijman accepted the awards, emphasizing that the Blue Flag is a result of constant dedication from the community, local businesses, and the municipality itself. "We are creating a space where people can responsibly relax in a beautiful, natural environment," Wiesehahn-Vrijman stated.
In Schagen, the beaches of Callantsoog, Groote Keeten, Petten, and Sint Maartenszee were also recognized with the Blue Flag. Alderman Hans Heddes expressed pride in their achievement, highlighting the collaborative efforts of beach pavilion operators who have worked hard to maintain clean and safe conditions for visitors. Similarly, in Den Helder, the beaches of Julianadorp aan Zee, Zandloper, and Duinoord were awarded the Blue Flag, with representatives from the municipality accepting the honors during the ceremony.
The Blue Flag program, managed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), is a voluntary initiative where locations apply for the award. To qualify, they must meet various criteria, including providing clean swimming water, good sanitary facilities, and ensuring a high level of safety. The flag is valid for one year, and locations are re-evaluated annually to ensure they continue to meet the required standards.
As the number of awarded locations continues to grow, it sends a clear message about the importance of environmental stewardship and quality in recreational spaces. The Blue Flag serves as an international symbol for tourists and locals alike, representing not only clean beaches and marinas but also a commitment to preserving natural resources and promoting sustainable tourism.
In summary, the 2025 Blue Flag awards highlight the Netherlands' ongoing dedication to environmental quality and safety in its recreational areas. With more locations receiving this esteemed recognition than ever before, the initiative demonstrates a collective effort from municipalities, businesses, and communities to foster a healthier environment for both people and nature. As the country moves forward, the focus on sustainability and quality will likely continue to shape the landscape of its beautiful beaches and marinas.
