These are the cleanest and safest beaches in Israel for 2026

The "Blue Flag" certification ceremony for 2026 was held at Beersheba Beach in Ashdod, where 62 beaches and three marinas from 13 local authorities nationwide were announced as winners of the international environmental certification. The ceremony took place in the presence of local authority representatives, program partners, and entities working to promote the preservation of the marine environment in Israel.

The "Blue Flag" certification is awarded to sites managed under high standards of coastal and marine environmental preservation. The program is operated in Israel by the EcoOcean association, on behalf of the international organization FEE. Winning the certification is determined after a comprehensive review of a series of criteria, including bathing water quality, environmental management, bather safety, public accessibility, as well as the implementation of environmental education activities.

The "Blue Flag" program operates in dozens of countries around the world, and is considered one of the most recognized and respected environmental quality certifications globally in the field of coastal and marina environmental management. Beyond international recognition, this is an ongoing process that requires authorities to meet strict standards throughout the entire bathing season.

The certification is awarded for one season only and is re-evaluated every year. In cases where a deviation from the criteria is detected during the season, there is an obligation to remove the flag until the deficiencies are corrected.

"The Blue Flag is not just a symbol, but an ongoing commitment to quality and responsible environmental management of the beach throughout the season," says Or Gerber, Director of the Blue Flag program. "It reflects high standards – from bathing water quality to the way the beach is managed, maintained, and operated daily. For the public, it is a simple way to identify beaches that meet high environmental and operational standards – and for the authorities, it is a professional work plan based on clear international criteria. Simply look for the Blue Flag flying at the beach."

The EcoOcean association works to protect the marine environment in Israel through research, education, community involvement, and the promotion of environmental policy, and continues to accompany local authorities in processes of improvement and responsible management of beaches and marinas.