Maharashtra Joins India’s Blue Flag League With Five Newly Certified Beaches

Maharashtra’s stunning coastline has just earned a major global nod, with five of its beaches receiving the coveted Blue Flag certification—an international benchmark for eco-friendly, clean, and well-managed beaches. The newly certified stretches include Shrivardhan and Nagaon in Raigad district, Parnaka in Palghar, and Guhagar and Ladghar in Ratnagiri district.

Announced by Maharashtra’s Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare, the Blue Flag recognition comes from Denmark’s Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), which assesses beaches against 33 stringent criteria. These include water quality, safety measures, waste management, public facilities, and efforts in environmental education. This global tag not only boosts Maharashtra’s eco-tourism appeal but also highlights a growing commitment to sustainable coastal development.

A Coast Of Contrasts

Maharashtra's 720 km coastline offers a diverse range of beaches along the Konkan coast, from the bustling urban beaches of Mumbai like Juhu to quieter, picturesque spots in the districts of Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg. Popular options include Alibaug and Murud, known for water sports and scenery, while more secluded choices like Murud and Tarkarli are popular for their natural beauty, clear waters, and marine life. The coastline features a mix of vibrant city beaches, historical sites, and tranquil, less-developed shores.

About The Beaches

Though both located in Maharashtra’s Raigad district, Shrivardhan and Nagaon beaches offer distinctly different experiences for visitors. Shrivardhan is a serene and scenic coastal spot steeped in history—it’s known as the birthplace of the first Peshwa and offers calm, clean waters ideal for peaceful retreats, boating, and jet skiing. Nagaon, on the other hand, is a vibrant, activity-filled beach just a short distance from Akshi, popular for its extensive range of water sports and energetic atmosphere.

Parnaka Beach, located in the coastal town of Dahanu in Maharashtra’s Palghar district, stands out for its exceptional standards in cleanliness, environmental management, and safety. Dahanu itself is known for its peaceful atmosphere, lush chikoo orchards, and rich cultural heritage, including the traditional Warli art of the region.

Guhagar and Ladghar beaches, both located in Ratnagiri district, offer distinct coastal experiences. Guhagar Beach is a peaceful stretch of clean, white sand fringed with coconut palms, ideal for quiet walks and spiritual visits to nearby Durga Devi and Vyadeshwar temples. It’s perfect for those seeking calm and reflection. In contrast, Ladghar Beach—also known as Tamas Teertha near Dapoli—is livelier, drawing visitors with its stunning sunsets, dolphin sightings, water sports, and striking red or dark sand.

The Blue Flag Certification

The Blue Flag certification is a prestigious international eco-label awarded to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating operators that meet rigorous standards across environmental management, water quality, safety, education, and accessibility. Bestowed by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) based in Denmark, it serves as a global symbol of environmental excellence and sustainable tourism practices.

As of October 2025, India is home to 17 Blue Flag-certified beaches. While the earlier list included well-known names like Shivrajpur in Gujarat, Ghoghla in Diu, Padubidri and Kasarkod in Karnataka, Kappad in Kerala, Rushikonda in Andhra Pradesh, Golden Beach in Odisha, Kovalam in Tamil Nadu, Eden in Puducherry, Radhanagar in the Andaman Islands, and Thundi and Kadmat in Lakshadweep—five new beaches from Maharashtra have now joined this elite list. These are Shrivardhan and Nagaon in Raigad, Parnaka in Palghar, and Guhagar and Ladghar in Ratnagiri. Their inclusion reflects Maharashtra’s growing commitment to eco-friendly tourism, environmental awareness, and coastal conservation.

FAQs

What is Blue Flag certification?
Blue Flag is an international eco-label awarded to beaches and marinas that meet strict environmental, safety, and accessibility standards.

How many Blue Flag beaches does India have?
As of 2025, India has 17 Blue Flag-certified beaches, including five new additions from Maharashtra.

Which beaches in Maharashtra have received Blue Flag certification?
Shrivardhan, Nagaon, Parnaka, Guhagar, and Ladghar beaches in Maharashtra have earned the Blue Flag certification.

What criteria must beaches meet to earn Blue Flag status?
Beaches must meet high standards in environmental management, water quality, safety services, and environmental education.