Only three U.S. beaches earned the prestigious Blue Flag designation for the 2026–27 season, including Spanish River Park in Boca Raton and Delray Beach. The international certification recognizes excellence in water quality, safety and environmental management.
Boca Raton officially raised the Blue Flag on May 7, marking the second consecutive year the beach has received the certification. The designation covers the shoreline from Tower 18 to the park’s southern boundary and reflects continued compliance with strict standards throughout the season.
“Receiving the Blue Flag designation for a second consecutive year reflects Boca Raton’s commitment to protecting our coastline and providing an exceptional beach experience,” Mayor Andy Thomson says.
Awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education in partnership with the American Shore & Beach Preservation Association, the Blue Flag program is one of the world’s most recognized eco-labels for beaches and marinas. To maintain the designation, beaches must meet rigorous benchmarks for water testing, safety services, accessibility and environmental education, with compliance monitored year-round.
Spanish River Park’s water quality is tested weekly by the Florida Department of Health in Palm Beach County, with results posted publicly. Beaches that fall short of Blue Flag requirements must remove the flag until standards are restored.
Delray Beach also earned Blue Flag status for the second year in a row, adding to its growing list of accolades. The city was recently named USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Best Beach in Florida for the third consecutive year, following major shoreline improvements that enhanced resilience and public access.
For more information, visit blueflag.global.
