The Algarve
The Algarve remains one of the UK’s favourite family holiday destinations, offering families warm temperatures all year round and an exquisite coastline to explore. The Algarve also ranks top of the Blue Flag beaches scoreboard with an incredible 69 of its beaches awarded Blue Flag status. As the coastline also takes in the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, visitors are served with equal amounts of tranquillity, excitement and natural beauty.
Top Beach for families – Praia Dona Ana Beach on the western coast of the Algarve is just outside the family friendly resort of Lagos. The beach is a stunning mix of cliffs, golden sands and shallow waters that are perfect for safe play and stylish relaxation.
Number of Blue Flag Beaches – 69
Majorca
Nine million people visited Majorca in 2011, confirming that the Balearic Island’s popularity and universal appeal remains. Majorca gives families a lively and traditional summer holiday, but the island also has its fair share of beautiful beaches. The biggest of the Balearic Islands is home to 554km of coastline and three Blue Flag Beaches in total, families can choose from the environmentally friendly beach opposite the S’albufera Nature Park or explore rural coast of Port Cristo.
Top beach for families – Camp De Mar Beach offers a slice of Balearic tranquillity that both parents and younger children will enjoy. The shallow waters and soft sands are made for safe play, whilst the wide open bay is a picturesque sun trap. The beach is also home to a unique restaurant that is situated on a small island opposite the shore, just walk along the bridge for fresh food and chilled drinks!
Number of Blue Flag Beaches – 3
Tenerife
Tenerife remains a popular destination for families, with the year round sunshine and unique volcanic landscape making Tenerife a destination that is perfect for family exploration. The beaches here range from rocky outcrops, to long golden stretches and include of course, the famous volcanic black sandy coves.
Top beach for families – El Camsion beach is 120 metres of golden sands and is designed for family fun. The beach is picturesque but also has modern amenities with changing areas and places to eat, and with a line of stones acting as a breakwater, the sea is perfect for aqua babies and younger children.
Number of Blue Flag Beaches – 5
Explore the black and golden sand beaches on holidays to Tenerife.
Malta
In 2011, nearly 1.4 million tourists enjoyed a holiday to Malta, not bad considering the small island is only 17 miles long! Malta is so popular with visitors because of its warm Mediterranean weather, stunning coastline and rich heritage. Although the majority of Malta’s coast is rocky, you can find breath-taking sandy bays on the north coast and on the islands of Gozo and Comino.
Top beach for families – St George’s beach is in the vibrant resort of St Julian’s. The sandy cove is close to al fresco restaurants and bars, has excellent facilities and is perfect for swimming and snorkelling in the clear blue sea.
Number of Blue Flag Beaches – 2