Every year, with the arrival of spring, anticipation grows for the announcement of the new Blue Flags—the prestigious international award given to coastal locations that stand out for the quality of their waters, services, and environmental care. The year 2025 has been particularly positive for Puglia, which confirms and strengthens its presence on the national scene, with several Salento locations in the spotlight.

But what exactly is the Blue Flag? What’s its history? And why is it so important—not only for sea lovers, but also for local communities and the regional economy?

The Origins of the Blue Flag

The Blue Flag was established in 1987 by the FEE (Foundation for Environmental Education), an independent international organization based in Denmark. Its goal—then and now—is to promote environmental sustainability in coastal municipalities by encouraging administrations to improve land management, water cleanliness, and the quality of services offered to residents and tourists.

Over the years, the award has gained increasing importance, becoming an international benchmark for those seeking environmentally responsible seaside destinations. Today, the Blue Flag is awarded in over 50 countries worldwide and represents a symbol of reliability, safety, and respect for nature.

Criteria for Earning a Blue Flag

Earning this recognition is no easy feat. Locations must meet numerous requirements that go far beyond scenic beauty or crystal-clear waters. Key criteria include:

  • Excellent bathing water quality, verified by constant and rigorous monitoring.

  • Sustainable land management, with a focus on recycling, wastewater treatment, and protection of local ecosystems.

  • Accessibility and safety, with equipped beaches, lifeguards, and facilities accessible to people with disabilities.

  • Environmental education, promoted through activities, information boards, and awareness campaigns for both residents and visitors.

Participation in the program is voluntary, but the selection process is strict: every application is thoroughly reviewed, and only those that meet all requirements are allowed to hoist the coveted flag.

Puglia Among the Sea Queens of 2025

With its long coastline bathed by both the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Puglia has long been one of Italy’s most awarded regions by the FEE. In 2025 as well, the region not only confirmed but increased the number of Blue Flag destinations, placing it among the top regions in Italy for certified beaches.

Twenty-two Puglian municipalities were awarded the distinction, covering the entire coastal area from north to south—a testament to a widespread commitment to environmental protection and quality tourism.

Salento in the Spotlight: All the Awarded Locations

Within this virtuous context, Salento plays a leading role. A land of olive trees, stone, and crystal-clear waters, Italy’s “heel” received multiple awards recognizing not only the beauty of its landscapes but also the increasing environmental awareness of local governments.

Among the Salento towns awarded the 2025 Blue Flag are:

  • Otranto, with its iconic beaches and constant efforts to enhance the coastline.

  • Melendugno, which retained the flag thanks to its seaside areas of Torre dell’Orso, Roca, and San Foca.

  • Salve, whose “Maldives of Salento” have long been a model for balanced tourism management.

  • Gallipoli, which, despite being a mass tourism hotspot, has managed to protect parts of its coastline.

  • Nardò, with its seaside areas of Santa Caterina and Santa Maria al Bagno, confirmed for their quality and services.

  • Santa Maria di Leuca, a 2025 new entry, receiving the Blue Flag for the first time—marking the results of recent work on environmental care, accessibility, and sustainable coastal use.

  • Tricase, also a first-time recipient, rewarded for its efforts in redeveloping its wilder, more authentic coastal spots like Marina Serra.

Beyond Tourism: The Blue Flag’s Impact on the Territory

The Blue Flag is more than just a symbolic honor—it brings real, often significant, benefits. For tourists, it’s a guarantee of quality and an added reason to choose a destination. But its impact reaches further.

Over time, the award has shown a direct effect on the real estate market: certified areas tend to experience increased demand—from both vacation home seekers and forward-looking investors. A well-maintained, clean, and valued territory naturally attracts both Italian and foreign capital.

Additionally, the Blue Flag encourages eco-conscious practices among tourism businesses, leading to greater adoption of renewable energy, plastic reduction, and landscape preservation initiatives.

A Commitment Looking Toward the Future

The success of 2025 confirms that the path taken by Puglia and Salento is the right one. The Blue Flag is not a finish line, but an ongoing commitment—a challenge renewed each year that requires collaboration, vision, and respect for a unique land.

Looking ahead, it will be essential to continue this journey by involving citizens, local governments, tourism operators, and investors in a shared vision of sustainable development. Because a cleaner sea, a more accessible coastline, and more mindful management are not just environmental goals—they are the beating heart of a new economy: fairer, healthier, and more beautiful to live in.