Costa Rica’s Blue Flag Beaches

Costa Rica’s most ecologically sound beaches will wave a Blue Flag.

In 1996 the program rated beaches and communities by the qualify of the ocean water, quality of drinking water in the community, waste disposal, availability of sanitary facilities, the presence signs with safety instructions, the involvement the community in keeping the beach clean and educating the local residents about the importance of maintaining the quality of  their beach. Back then, only 10 awards we’re presented.

At a recent ceremony held in the Presidential House in Zapote, the 50 beaches, as well as 15 inland communities were praised for their accomplishments and then officially given the “Blue Flag” Award. Unfortunately, Playas Penca and Tamarindo in Guanacaste, Santa Teresa in the Nicoya Peninsula and Puntarenas, Roble and Doña Ana – formely held the honor but did no qualify this year.

The awards come after a year-long evaluation of 84 beaches and 40 non-coastal communities. Only 50 beaches and 15 inland communities qualified for the award. These awards were categorized in a three-tier rating system.

A - Beaches with a Minimum score of 90% that include basic services such as potable water and waste facilities.
AA - Beaches with a score of 100% that include the presence of lifeguards during high season and rip-tide warning signs.
AAA - Beaches with a score of 100% that include the presence of lifeguards and first aid trained personnel, access for the disabled, tourist information, sanitary services and showers.

These are the winners of the Blue Flag Award for 2005 – 2006 in random order:

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