Mataró's Callao and Varador beaches, alongside the city's port, have successfully renewed their Blue Flag distinctions for 2026. This recognition, awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), highlights the quality of their environmental management, safety, and services.
This marks the second consecutive year that both Mataró beaches have received the international award, having first earned it in 2025. The Port of Mataró has held the Blue Flag for an impressive 29 years.
Catalonia now boasts 101 Blue Flag beaches across 40 municipalities and 23 Blue Flag ports for 2026. Eleven of these beaches are located in the Maresme region. The Blue Flag programme, managed in Spain by the Association for Environmental and Consumer Education (ADEAC), collaborates with public administrations responsible for bathing areas and water quality.
International Recognition for Quality
Coastal municipalities voluntarily apply for the Blue Flag award each year. This internationally recognised distinction, granted in 51 countries, assesses environmental management, safety of bathing areas and facilities, service provision, and environmental information and education. A critical requirement is that bathing water quality must achieve an 'Excellent' classification, as set out by Directive 2006/7/CE.
The high quality of bathing waters in Catalonia is a result of effective management measures, well-functioning sanitation systems in inhabited areas, and robust environmental control and inspection. According to ADEAC, 95% of the beaches that applied for the Blue Flag this year received the award, showing the high standard of applications.
The most common reasons for not receiving a Blue Flag are failing to meet the 'Excellent' bathing water quality standard or non-compliance with the Coastal Law, often due to excessive occupation or unauthorised installations on beaches.
Varador and Callao Beaches
Varador beach, one of Mataró's most iconic, is popular due to its proximity to the city centre. It offers recreational areas for children and facilities for volleyball, basketball, and football. The 750-metre-long beach includes an adapted bathing area and services for people with reduced mobility.
Callao beach, spanning 400 metres, provides a full range of services, including toilets, showers, lifeguards, bars, and adapted facilities for people with reduced mobility. It is located near an ideal area for walking, sports, and diverse dining options.
Port's Environmental Commitment
The Blue Flag programme for marinas promotes the rational use of resources in nautical facilities and activities. It also raises awareness among users about the need to protect the marine environment and encourages sustainable navigation. The Blue Flag, a blue flag with a white beach logo, is a strong international tourism symbol that increases user confidence in the services provided.
Mataró submitted its application in November 2025. The international jury ratified the national jury's proposal from February. Obtaining the Blue Flag for Mataró's beaches aligns with the city's 'Mar en Valor' (Sea in Value) strategy. This initiative aims to open the city to the sea, enhance the seafront and port, promote nautical culture, and boost the blue economy as an area for social, economic, and tourism development.
