Tuesday, May 27, 2025
The province of Málaga continues to cement its reputation as a premier destination for quality coastal tourism by increasing its number of Blue Flag beaches to 45 in the summer season of 2025. This represents a growth from 41 beaches awarded the prestigious Blue Flag in 2024, with five new beaches earning the distinction this year: Carvajal (Benalmádena), Los Monteros (Marbella), Calahonda (Mijas), La Carihuela (Torremolinos), and Las Dunas (Torrox).
The Blue Flag certification, managed internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and supported by local and regional governments including Spain’s Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge (MITECO), is recognized globally as a mark of excellence in environmental management, water quality, safety, and services on beaches and marinas. It promotes sustainable tourism and safeguards coastal ecosystems.
Andalusia’s Rising Coastal Excellence
The growth of Málaga’s Blue Flag beaches is part of a broader positive trend in Andalusia, which now boasts a total of 138 Blue Flags in 2025, up eight from 130 in 2024. This surge places Andalusia just five flags shy of the top-ranking Valencian Community, which leads with a combined total across Alicante, Valencia, and Castellón.
Andalusia’s achievement highlights the region’s commitment to sustainable tourism, environmental protection, and enhanced visitor experiences. The increase in Blue Flags reflects ongoing investments in infrastructure, water quality monitoring, safety measures, and services that meet stringent Blue Flag criteria.
New Blue Flag Beaches in Málaga: Detailed Overview
1. Carvajal Beach (Benalmádena)
Situated on the boundary with Fuengirola, Carvajal Beach is known for its dark sand and tranquil waters, ideal for family visits. It offers comprehensive amenities including lifeguard services, accessible pathways, and environmental education efforts. Visitors can enjoy nearby acclaimed seafood restaurants such as Los Marinos José and beach bars like La Cubana, enhancing the visitor experience.
2. Los Monteros Beach (Marbella)
Located east of Marbella within a prestigious residential area, Los Monteros is a relatively quiet beach spanning approximately 450 meters with fine golden sand. Its calm and shallow waters make it particularly suitable for children and swimmers seeking a peaceful environment.
3. Calahonda Beach (Mijas)
This semi-urban beach lies on the western edge of Mijas municipality and extends 4.4 kilometers in length with an average width of 20 meters. Characterized by golden sand and clear waters, Calahonda offers moderate waves and ample amenities, making it a favorite for families and visitors seeking a pleasant beach day without the bustle of more commercialized promenades.
4. La Carihuela Beach (Torremolinos)
At 2,100 meters long and averaging 40 meters wide, La Carihuela is the longest beach in Torremolinos. It boasts volcanic-origin dark sand and generally calm tides. Despite its urban surroundings, it retains the charm of a traditional Andalusian fishing village, enriching the cultural experience for tourists. La Carihuela’s name commemorates its historical fishing district roots.
5. Las Dunas Beach (Torrox)
This coastal stretch is well-known for its natural sand dunes and serene environment. The beach adheres to the Blue Flag criteria for cleanliness, safety, and accessibility, promoting conservation of its dune ecosystems.
Beaches Losing and Gaining the Blue Flag in Málaga
While Málaga gains five new Blue Flag beaches, Torrebermeja-Santa Ana beach in Benalmádena loses the designation this year. The loss underscores the rigorous standards maintained by the Blue Flag program, emphasizing the ongoing need for sustainable management.
Andalusia’s Other Blue Flag Additions in 2025
Besides Málaga’s additions, Andalusia’s total Blue Flag count benefits from new designations in Cádiz and Almería provinces:
- Cádiz: Puerto de Sotogrande beach in San Roque was awarded the Blue Flag for 2025, reflecting improvements in environmental and service standards.
- Almería: Three beaches—Pozo del Esparto and Quitapellejos in Cuevas del Almanzora, and El Descargador in Mojácar—have also received the distinction, highlighting regional efforts to elevate coastal quality.
Comprehensive Blue Flag Beaches List by Municipality in Málaga
Below is the detailed inventory of Blue Flag beaches in Málaga by municipality, as published by the Andalusian Regional Government and FEE:
- Algarrobo Costa: Carob tree
- Benalmádena: Carvajal, Fountain of Health
- Casares: Wide
- Fuengirola: Bowling-Seagulls, Carvajal, Castillo-Ejido
- Málaga City: Cove, The Finger, The Stick, Malagueta, Mercy, Pedregalejo, Saint Andrew
- Manilva: Sabinillas
- Marbella: Cabopino, Casablanca, The Cable, The Lighthouse, The Fontanilla, Nagüeles, Puerto Banús-Levante, Los Monteros (Oleander), Saint Peter of Alcántara (Guadalmina), Venus-Bajadilla
- Mijas: Calahonda (Royal Beach – La Luna), Calahonda (Riviera), The Bass Drum, The Chaparral, The Cove
- Nerja: Burriana, Maro, Playazo – Chucho, Turret
- Torremolinos: Bajondillo, La Carihuela-Montemar, Los Alamos, Playamar
- Torrox: Ashtray-The Dunes, The Morche, Ferrara
- Vélez-Málaga: Benajrate, The Cove (Promenade), Sea Tower (Promenade)
Significance of Blue Flag Certification
The Blue Flag program is internationally recognized for encouraging sustainable tourism practices that protect marine and coastal ecosystems while promoting safe, accessible, and high-quality recreational areas. Beaches awarded the Blue Flag undergo annual evaluations based on water quality, environmental management, safety, and educational activities.
For local governments and tourism operators, maintaining Blue Flag status fosters international recognition and attracts environmentally conscious travelers. For visitors, it guarantees clean, safe, and well-managed beach environments, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Málaga and Andalusia’s Commitment to Sustainable Coastal Tourism
The regional government of Andalusia, alongside local municipalities and environmental organizations, actively supports Blue Flag initiatives as part of its wider commitment to sustainable tourism development. Investments in beach maintenance, water quality monitoring, accessibility improvements, and environmental education underpin the region’s successes.
According to the Andalusian Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Blue Flag beaches significantly contribute to the region’s attractiveness as a tourism destination by balancing environmental stewardship with economic development.
Future Outlook
With climate change and environmental pressures increasing globally, the Blue Flag program remains a vital framework for coastal areas seeking to protect natural assets while supporting tourism economies. Málaga’s growth in Blue Flag beaches illustrates the province’s proactive approach to sustainable development, setting a benchmark for other Mediterranean destinations.
Looking ahead, continuous monitoring, stakeholder collaboration, and community involvement will be key to preserving the quality and reputation of Málaga’s coastline. Visitors can expect enhanced facilities, cleaner beaches, and safer environments that align with international standards.
References
- Andalusian Regional Government Official Website
- Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) Blue Flag Program
- Ministry for Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge, Spain
- Málaga Provincial Council Tourism Department
- Local Municipal Websites for Benalmádena, Marbella, Mijas, Torremolinos, and Torrox
