County Mayo continues to shine as one of Ireland’s top coastal destinations, with An Taisce confirming that Mayo has retained all eleven of its Blue Flag beaches and all nine of its Green Coast Awards for the 2026 bathing season.
The internationally recognised Blue Flag award acknowledges excellence in water quality, environmental management, biodiversity protection, safety, accessibility, education and sustainable coastal practices.
Speaking at the awards ceremony hosted by Cork County Council in Mall House, Youghal, Minister for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD praised the dedication of local authorities and communities across the country.
“The Blue Flag is one of the world’s most recognised environmental awards and I’m proud to see so many Irish beaches and marinas receive this status today. Those who receive this award have demonstrated high standards around water quality, biodiversity protection and strong collaboration with local tourism service providers to lead the way in sustainable coastal management,” he said.
Mayo’s 2026 Blue Flag Beaches
Mayo’s Blue Flag beaches for 2026 include: Keel, Keem, Dooega and Dugort on Achill Island, along with Bertra, Elly Bay, Clare Island, Mullaghroe, Mulranny, Old Head, Louisburgh and Ross Beach.
North Mayo’s Blue Flag recipients include Mullaghroe Beach in Belmullet, Elly Bay in Belmullet and Ross Beach in Killala.
Adding to the celebrations, neighbouring Enniscrone Beach in County Sligo — located just 15 minutes from Ballina — has won the Blue Flag status once again.
Mayo’s Green Coast Award Beaches
Nine Mayo beaches have also secured Green Coast status for 2026. The Green Coast Award recognises beaches with excellent water quality that are generally more natural, less developed and less heavily used than Blue Flag locations.
Mayo’s Green Coast beaches include Tranaun Beach on Inishturk, Cross Beach in Louisburgh, Carrowniskey Beach, Srah Beach, Termon Beach, Cross Beach on the Erris Peninsula, Portacloy Beach and Rinroe Beach in Kilgalligan.
A Major Boost for Sustainable Tourism
These prestigious awards are a testament to the incredible efforts of local communities, volunteers and coastal stakeholders across Mayo who work year-round to keep beaches clean, safe and welcoming.
Regular beach clean-ups, environmental initiatives and a strong commitment to Leave No Trace principles continue to play an important role in protecting these valuable natural assets.
As more visitors travel along the Wild Atlantic Way this summer, Mayo North Tourism hopes they will take the time to explore the spectacular coastline stretching from Ballina to Belmullet and discover the region’s hidden gems, Blue Flag beaches and Green Coast locations.
Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the beaches responsibly by following lifeguard guidance, respecting dog restrictions and local signage, practising Leave No Trace principles and leaving nothing behind except footprints.
These awards not only recognise environmental excellence but also support sustainable tourism and ecotourism throughout the region, ensuring Mayo’s stunning coastline can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.