India had already amazed us with its beauty and culture, but little did we know the Journey is just about to begin. In a remarkable achievement, eight distinct Indian beaches were awarded the prestigious Blue Flag certification in July 2019, solidifying the country’s commitment to eco-tourism and beach conservation.
The decision was made by a panel of eminent international judges consisting of members from the United Nations Environment Programme, United Nations World Tourism Organisation, Foundation of Environmental Education, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
This recognition, a testament to India’s dedication to sustainability and environmental protection, propelled the nation onto the global stage as a leader in coastal management.
As mentioned before, not one but eight beaches in India have received this recognition in 2019, which was an amazing achievement for the country and as of January 2024, India boasts 12 prestigious Blue Flag beaches, recognized globally for their exceptional water quality, effective environmental management, stringent safety standards, and unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism.
Prakash Javadekar, the Union Minister of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, at that time had reported that this was a first for India. Even for the other blue flag countries, none have been awarded for eight beaches in a single attempt. It also signifies the steps India has been consistently taking towards sustainability and conservation of natural resources, especially with the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan initiated by the Prime Minister of the country, Narendra Modi.
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What is the Blue Flag Certification?
The Blue Flag certification is an eco-label that is presented to a beach, marina, or sustainable boating tourism operator. The certification was predominantly initiated by the Foundation for Environmental Education in Denmark.
The certification is awarded annually to the beaches and marinas in FEE member countries.
The main objective behind the Blue Flag program is to promote sustainability concerning the freshwater and marine areas across the world. It abides by four governing rules of water quality, environmental management, environmental education, and safety.
As per the historical data, around 43 countries take part in this program and over 4500 beaches have been certified under this program already.
8 must visit Indian Blue Flag certified Beaches
They are:
- Shivrajpur (Gujarat)
- Ghogla (Diu)
- Kasarkod (Karnataka)
- Padubidri (Karnataka)
- Kappad (Kerala)
- Rushikonda (Andhra Pradesh)
- Golden (Odisha)
- Radhanagar (Andaman)
Let us take a deeper look at these beaches further.
1. Shivrajpur
Located 11km away from Dwarka, and 15 minutes north of the famous Rukmani Temple, Shivrajpur beach is one of the first to receive the Blue Flag certification. The beauty of the blue water and the golden tranquilising sand along the coast of the Shivrajpur village is a sight for the sore eyes. It has a lighthouse and a rocky shoreline around it. If you are planning on visiting this spot, it is perfect for photography and to take a long walk, especially during the sunsets.
How to reach – Chakra Rickshaws are a very popular commute mode from Dwarka to the beach. Decide the cost before you avail the ride.
2. Ghogla
Located in the Ghogla village, the beach is at a distance of 15 minutes from the main city of Diu. The highlight of this beach is the cleanliness and the tourist complexes that look over the sea. It is equipped with the best accommodation and food facilities for the tourists to enjoy a relaxing retreat. If you are into adventure sports, the beach has parasailing and water scooters that you get to ride along. The place is quite underrated and hence, less populated with tourists. So, if you want to stay aloof for a few days, this is your safest spot.
How to reach – Hire a taxi, bike or scooter to commute through the Diu-Una road to reach the beach.
3. Kasarkod
Located precisely near Apsarakonda, Kasarkod is one of the two beaches in Karnataka that has received the Blue flag certification. The beach is located off the NH17 highway, so you can take your car and make a road trip out of it. The beach has a long coastline and reddish sand, which is unique. It is not overpopulated with tourists and makes for a perfect retreat away from the constant hustle and bustle of the city life.
How to reach – Hire a rental car to take you through NH17 highway to the Kasarkod district and to the beach.
4. Padubidri
Another beach from Karnataka that received the recognition is the Padubidri beach. Located in Udupi, the beach is perfect for anyone who wants a recluse from their tiring day to day lifestyle. From a 10-year-old stressed with their studies to a 40-year-old businessman not able to find peace in the city, this is likely for everyone. The long stretch of shoreline, peaceful waves, open sky, and the picturesque setting is worth a visit.
How to reach – Take a rental car or local commute vehicle from Udupi to reach the Padubidri bus stop from where the beach is nearby.
5. Kappad
Located near Kozhikode in Kerala, Kappad is a historic beach where the famous explorer, Vasco Da Gama, landed in 1498, almost 500 years ago. The beach also enhanced the spice exports back in the days. The coastline is perfect for a long walk of solitude, especially with the backdrop of the sunset. The local shacks on the beach are renowned for serving some of the favourite native delicacies.
How to reach – Once you reach Kozhikode railway station, you can hire a private taxi or rental vehicle to take you to the beach.
6. Rushikonda
Vizag is known for its beaches and Rushikonda is one of the most spectacular ones. It is located in Visakhapatnam and is under the management of the state government. The long stretch of the coastline with the turquoise green water and the shady coconut trees around make this one of the best tourist spots around.
How to reach – Taking a rental car from Vizag is the safest and the most accessible way to reach the beach.
7. Golden
Also popular as the Puri beach, it is one of the pride of Odisha. The stretch of the fine coastline with the golden sand and the long and mighty waves, make this a perfect spot to relive your childhood dreams in. More than the site of attraction, this beach serves as a glimpse into the Odisha culture. You can see fishermen with wide-brimmed cane hats and small shacks on the beach selling souvenirs made out of seashells.
How to reach – You will have to take a train till Puri railway station, from where you can hire auto rickshaws or jeeps to take you to the main beach.
8. Radhanagar
The last beach in India that received the Blue Flag certification is the Radhanagar beach, which is located in Havelock Island. It is alternatively known as Beach No. 7 and has received several accolades from International entities. The beach is scattered with the white sand and is covered by coconut trees from all sides. If you are looking for a spot to just sit and relax and ebb your worries away, this beach is at your service.
How to reach – Since the beach is located just 10kms from Havelock Jetty, you can hire a rickshaw or cab from there to take you to the beach.
It is a matter of pride for India to bag the prestigious recognition of the Blue Flag programmed for not one but eight beaches across the country. If you are planning a quick trip to relax, pick one of these beaches for a quick getaway.
