Blue Flag Canada

Blue Flag is an award program for environmentally-friendly beaches, boats, and marinas.

Swim Drink Fish proudly operates Blue Flag Canada on behalf of Blue Flag International and the Foundation for Environmental Education. Swim Drink Fish took over the program from Environmental Defence in early 2020.

With thousands of kilometres of shoreline, Canada is home to many world-class waterfront destinations. The Blue Flag program recognizes communities working hard to promote swimmable, drinkable, fishable water. A Blue Flag tells you a beach or marina is managed sustainably, is accessible, and has high-quality services and safety procedures. Blue Flag beaches also actively monitor water quality.

Blue Flag beaches and marinas

Swim Drink Fish works closely with Blue Flag International to make sure your local Blue Flag destination meets the same standards used across the world. In 2024, there were 25 Blue Flag beaches and marinas across Canada (16 beaches and 9 marinas).

Blue Flag beaches meet 33 criteria across four categories: Environmental Education and Information; Water Quality; Environmental Management; and, Safety and Services.

Blue Flag marinas meet 38 criteria across six categories: Environmental Education and Information; Environmental Management; Safety and Services; Water Quality; Corporate Social Responsibility; and Social and Community Involvement.

Swim Drink Fish advises new and existing Blue Flag applicants in Canada. Each year, we consult industry experts to review Blue Flag applications and award Blue Flags each spring before swimming season starts.

Want to submit a Blue Flag application for your beach or marina?
Click here for details on the application process for beaches and for marinas.