Argomenti trattati
As summer approaches, families begin to dream about sun-soaked days by the sea, and what better way to kick off those plans than by checking out the latest list of Green Flag beaches? This annual recognition, awarded by pediatricians, is a beacon for families seeking the safest and most welcoming beach destinations for their little ones. It’s not just about the sunbeds and kid-friendly hotels—these beaches have undergone rigorous assessments to ensure they meet the highest standards for child safety and enjoyment.
What makes a beach family-friendly?
So, what exactly qualifies a beach for a Green Flag? Pediatricians have created a detailed checklist for the ideal beach experience for children. Key elements include fine, soft sand for building castles, shallow waters that are clean and clear, lifeguard services for peace of mind, accessible restrooms, diaper-changing areas, and well-spaced umbrellas to allow for ample room for kids to move around freely. All these features contribute to a stress-free environment for parents while ensuring children can explore safely.
This year, a panel of 3,075 pediatricians from both Italy and abroad evaluated coastal locations based on health, safety, and overall well-being for kids. The total number of Green Flag beaches for 2025 stands at an impressive 158—150 in Italy alone and 8 abroad. It’s a clear signal that the model of child-friendly beaches is gaining international recognition.
New entries and regional highlights
Among the exciting new additions this year are three beaches that have just earned their Green Flag status: two in Baia Domizia, located in the municipalities of Cellole and Sessa Aurunca in Caserta, and one in Paola, Cosenza. This marks a significant return for Campania, which had not seen new awards in nine years, bringing the total in the region to 12. This surge places Campania ahead of regions like Abruzzo, Emilia-Romagna, Lazio, and Tuscany.
When it comes to the regions with the most Green Flags, Calabria takes the crown with 21 awarded beaches, followed closely by Sicily with 18 and Sardinia with 16. Interestingly, for density, Abruzzo shines with one Green Flag for every 11.8 km of coastline, followed by Emilia-Romagna and the Marche region. Every coastal region in Italy boasts at least one award-winning location, from the northernmost Grado (Gorizia) to the southernmost Santa Maria del Focallo (Ragusa), solidifying Italy’s reputation as a family-friendly vacation destination.
Spotlighting Calabria and Sicily
Calabria, a perennial favorite for family tourism, showcases several remarkable beaches including Roccella Jonica, Soverato, Siderno, Bovalino, Isola di Capo Rizzuto, and the newcomer Paola. These beaches not only offer spectacular views but also commit to providing a safe and welcoming atmosphere for families. The wide sandy expanses, crystal-clear waters, and well-maintained facilities ensure that parents can relax while their children enjoy the sun and surf.
Sicily, with its stunning coastline, has also earned its share of accolades with 18 Green Flags. Notable beaches include Marina di Ragusa, Sampieri, Cefalù, Balestrate, and the southernmost award winner, Santa Maria del Focallo. These locations are celebrated not just for their beauty, but also for their commitment to family-friendly amenities.
Sardinia and the Adriatic coast
Sardinia doesn’t fall short either, offering iconic family-friendly beaches like San Teodoro, Tortolì, La Maddalena, and Poetto. There are also hidden gems like La Caletta on the Island of San Pietro, which is the westernmost Green Flag beach in Italy. The island truly caters to families, ensuring a mix of accessibility and breathtaking natural beauty.
The Adriatic coast shines with a strong presence of Green Flags in the Marche region, featuring popular spots such as San Benedetto del Tronto, Senigallia, and Gabicce Mare. Similarly, Puglia boasts destinations like Otranto, Gallipoli, and Vieste, which blend stunning landscapes with practical family-friendly offerings.
Conclusion and future outlook
Thanks to the recent additions in Caserta, Campania has made a comeback in the rankings, joining the ranks of well-known family-friendly beaches such as Positano and Marina di Camerota. The region’s new entries have been recognized for their tranquil waters and well-structured services. Meanwhile, in Abruzzo, the wide sandy beaches and shallow waters make it a perennial favorite for families, with old standbys like Alba Adriatica and Giulianova continuing to receive accolades.
Ultimately, the Green Flag initiative not only highlights the best family-friendly beaches but also encourages regions to continuously improve their offerings. As we look to the future, one can only hope that more areas will follow suit, creating safe, enjoyable environments for families around the world. After all, isn’t that what summer is all about?