Maharashtra Gets 1st Blue Flag Beach Recognition; THESE 3 Konkan Beaches Earn Global Status

Maharashtra’s Konkan coastline has another reason to make it to your travel bucket list! Three beaches in the state have received the prestigious International Blue Flag certification for the 2026-27 season, marking the first time Maharashtra has earned a place on the global list. Here’s all you need to know about this.

3 Maharashtra Beaches Receive International Blue Flag Certification

According to The Hindu, the beaches include Ladghar and Guhagar in Ratnagiri district and Shrivardhan in Raigad district. The recognition highlights their efforts in maintaining cleanliness, water quality, environmental conservation, tourist safety and sustainable tourism. Here’s everything you need to know about these three beaches.

1. Ladghar Beach, Ratnagiri

Ladghar Beach is a popular coastal destination in Ratnagiri, known for its beautiful shoreline and relatively peaceful surroundings. Located along the Konkan coast, it attracts visitors looking for a relaxing beach getaway away from crowded tourist hubs. Its Blue Flag recognition is a significant milestone for the beach and puts it on the international tourism map.

Also Read: India’s Palolem Beach Beats Global Favourites To Become Asia’s Best In 2026

2. Guhagar Beach, Ratnagiri

Guhagar Beach is another scenic stretch of coastline in Ratnagiri district. Known for its long sandy shoreline, coconut and betel nut plantations, and laid-back atmosphere, Guhagar is a favourite among travellers exploring the Konkan region. The international recognition further highlights the importance of preserving its natural surroundings while encouraging responsible tourism.

3. Shrivardhan Beach, Raigad

This beach in Raigad district is known for its picturesque coastline and relatively tranquil setting. The destination is also popular among visitors exploring the Konkan region for its coastal views and nearby heritage attractions. Its inclusion in the Blue Flag list marks an important achievement for tourism in Maharashtra’s Raigad.

What Is The International Blue Flag Certification?

The Blue Flag is an internationally recognised eco-label awarded to beaches that meet stringent environmental and tourism standards. The certification assesses several parameters, including beach cleanliness, bathing water quality, biodiversity protection, tourist safety, basic infrastructure and sustainable tourism management.

For the 2026-27 season, a total of 22 beaches across India have received Blue Flag recognition. This includes 13 beaches whose certifications have been renewed and nine newly recognised beaches, three of which are in Maharashtra.

According to the Maharashtra government, the Blue Flag season at Ladghar, Guhagar and Shrivardhan will begin on November 15, 2026. The state also plans to develop more eligible beaches along its coastline to meet international standards.

Also Read: Anand Mahindra Is All Praise For A Beach In Vizag; Calls Its Rugged Beauty “Compelling”

The recognition is expected to give Konkan tourism a boost, attract more visitors and create opportunities for local businesses and communities.

Cover Image Courtesy: X/@rushikesh_agre_

Tashika Tyagi | Sub-Editor

Tashika Tyagi is a Sub-Editor at Curly Tales with 8 years of experience covering food, travel, lifestyle, fashion, entertainment, and pop culture. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from IMS, Noida. When she’s not scouting new places to eat or explore, you’ll find her experimenting with Instagram recipes in the kitchen or happily binge-watching a K-drama.