The top 10 Blue Flag beaches nearest Surrey renowned for cleanliness

Southbourne Beach
People walking along Southbourne Beach near Bournemouth -Credit:Andrew Matthews/PA Wire


While Surrey might not have any coastline itself, it isn’t that far away from several stunning beaches. As the weather warms up, why not take a trip to one of these 10 award winning locations on our borders, which have just been announced.

74 beaches have been awarded Blue Flag status this year, an international award presented to well-managed beaches with excellent water quality. The flag shows visitors that they are at a clean and safe beach.

The award winners nearest Surrey are split between West Wittering, Havant, Poole and Brighton and Hove.

With Hayling Island less than an hour's drive from Guildford, these seaside resorts are easily accessible for a weekend away.

The beaches Blue Flag nearest Surrey this year are:

  • West Wittering Beach - West Wittering Estate plc

  • Hayling Island Beachlands Central - Havant Borough Council

  • Saltdean Beach - Brighton and Hove Council

  • Hove Lawns - Brighton and Hove Council

  • Highcliffe Beach - BCP Council

  • Southbourne - BCP Council

  • Poole, Shore Road - BCP Council

  • Poole, Sandbanks Peninsular - BCP Council

  • Poole, Canford Cliffs - BCP Council

  • Poole, Branksome Chine - BCP Council

What are Blue Flag Beaches?

Blue Flag Beaches are coastal areas that have attained a distinguished designation by the Blue Flag program. Essentially, this signifies that the beach upholds stringent standards regarding cleanliness, safety, and suitability for tourism. The award criteria are rigorous, ensuring that beaches receiving this recognition are of superior quality.

For visitors, a Blue Flag Beach guarantees an enjoyable beach experience. These beaches are remarkably free from issues like litter and pollution, while also maintaining high safety measures. Consequently, Blue Flag Beaches are excellent choices for families, especially those with young children.

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