Despite the significant damage caused by the DANA storm on October 29, 2024, the city of Valencia has successfully retained its seven Blue Flags, a prestigious European distinction that ensures the environmental quality and safety of its beaches. This remarkable achievement is the result of a comprehensive cleaning effort spearheaded by the municipal government.
The beaches of Valencia, including the urban beaches of Cabanyal and Malva-rosa, as well as those located in the southern region—El Saler, La Devesa, La Garrofera, Recatí-Perellonet, and l’Arbre del Gos—have once again been recognized for their excellence in 2024. The beach of l’Arbre del Gos even regained its Blue Flag this year after undergoing regeneration work carried out by the Coastal Directorate.
“This label recognizes not only the quality of the beaches but also the efforts we have made to restore them after the storm’s damage,” stated Mónica Gil, the municipal councilor responsible for beaches. The international jury assesses various criteria, including water cleanliness, safety, biodiversity protection, accessibility, and service quality.
Established in 1985, the Blue Flag is an international label awarded annually by the Association for Environmental Education and Consumer (ADEAC). It honors beaches and marinas that meet stringent criteria regarding water quality, safety, environmental management, services, and accessibility. This symbol of sustainable tourism is recognized by travelers as a guarantee of cleanliness and reliability.
In response to the aftermath of the DANA, which brought over 40,000 tonnes of debris into the sea—including trunks, plastic waste, furniture, vehicles, and even human and animal corpses—the municipality mobilized 19 machines and 25 agents for a month-long cleaning operation. The total cost of this extensive cleaning effort amounted to €917,816. Special attention was given to the beaches located within the natural park, including El Saler, La Garrofera, and l’Arbre del Gos.
“Today, we can once again offer residents and visitors safe, clean, and high-quality beaches,” Gil emphasized, noting that the Blue Flag has become a recognized symbol, ensuring a welcoming coastline suitable for relaxation, water sports, strolls, and nature exploration.
As the summer approaches, Valencia is set to welcome both locals and tourists to its pristine beaches, which are not only beautiful but also well-managed and environmentally friendly. The renewal of the Blue Flags for the summer of 2025 underscores the city’s commitment to maintaining high standards for its coastal areas.
The recognition encompasses two urban beaches and five from the Albufera Natural Park. The beaches of Valencia will proudly display their seven Blue Flags this summer, certifying their excellence in quality, safety, sustainability, and services.
Despite the challenges posed by the recent DANA storm that impacted a portion of the Valencian coastline last autumn, the cleaning and recovery efforts have proven effective, ensuring that the beaches are fully prepared to welcome residents and tourists alike.
The distinctions awarded by ADEAC recognize both the environmental conditions and the sustainable management of coastal areas. In Valencia, the Blue Flags have been granted to the urban beaches of Cabanyal and Malva-rosa, as well as to five others located in the south: El Saler, La Devesa, La Garrofera, Recatí-Perellonet, and l'Arbre del Gos.
These beaches combine proximity and accessibility with unique landscapes, many of which are situated in the heart of the Albufera Natural Park, such as El Saler and La Devesa. In addition to offering comprehensive services, lifeguard stations, showers, and accessible facilities, many of these beaches provide ideal spaces for walking, exercising, observing nature, or simply enjoying the Mediterranean in peace.
The acquisition and maintenance of these distinctions reflect the city’s commitment to its coastline and guarantee visitors to Valencia clean, safe beaches ready to be enjoyed. With the summer beginning under the best conditions—awarded beaches, well-maintained natural environments, and a Mediterranean that invites relaxation—the city is poised to offer an exceptional experience for all.
As the warm months approach, the city of Valencia stands ready to showcase its commitment to environmental sustainability and quality tourism. The Blue Flags serve not only as a badge of honor but as a testament to the hard work and dedication of the local government and community in maintaining the beauty and safety of its coastal treasures.