Tenerife’s Los Cristianos Beach Loses Blue Flag Status as Canary Islands Reach 62 Awards
Los Cristianos beach in Tenerife has lost its Blue Flag status for 2026, even as the Canary Islands overall increased their total number of awards to 62.
Los Cristianos beach in Arona, Tenerife, has lost its Blue Flag status for 2026. As one of the busiest tourist spots in the south of the island, it is the only beach in the Canary Islands to lose this international award, which recognizes high standards for water quality, safety, and accessibility.
Despite this local setback, the Canary Islands overall have seen a positive trend. The region now holds a total of 62 awards—52 for beaches and 10 for marinas—an increase of 11 from last year. Las Palmas leads the region with 40 distinctions, while Santa Cruz de Tenerife holds 22.
The Blue Flag program, now in its 40th year, uses a rigorous annual evaluation process. To qualify, locations must meet strict criteria regarding water quality, lifeguard staffing, clear environmental signage, and compliance with coastal laws. Losing a flag is typically due to issues with water health or the management of beach facilities. Even with the loss at Los Cristianos, Tenerife still has 11 recognized beaches, and the marina sector is growing, with new awards across Fuerteventura, La Graciosa, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Tenerife, including a first-time win for Garachico.
Nationally, Spain remains a global leader in the program, holding 794 flags—about 15% of all certified locations worldwide. Beyond physical infrastructure, the program also recognizes local efforts in environmental education. This year, the municipalities of Los Realejos and Arucas received special mentions for their work in raising public awareness about environmental preservation.