Eight beaches in India spread across five states and two union territories have been awarded the 'Blue Flag' certification. The eight beaches that have received the international certification are Shivrajpur (Dwarka-Gujarat), Ghoghla (Diu), Kasarkod and Padubidri (Karnataka), Kappad (Kerala), Rushikonda (AP), Golden (Puri-Odisha) and Radhanagar (A&N Islands).
What has earned these beaches the international rating for environment conservation and management?
Shivrajpur, Gujarat
This beach is an ideal tourist destination for those wishing to enjoy time with family. Shivrajpur beach makes it a perfect place for long walks. The fact that this beach is far away from any industrial sites and cities helps it remain clean. It is also known for its excellent water quality as per the case study 'Coastal Monitoring in Shivrajpur, India' by water technology company Xylem.
Ghoghla, Diu
This can be a perfect destination for tourists who like to avoid crowds and prefer to have some quality 'Me' time. The beach isn't too crowded. You can house a tourist complex with all the necessary requirements. You can also enjoy some adventurous sports like parasailing and water scooters. The beach is well maintained and the best choice for a family holiday.
Kasarkod, KarnatakaThis beach was inaugurated in 2013 jointly by the Tourism and Forest Departments, and Kasarkod Village Forest Committee. The destination offers a great experience with a children's park, boating facility among other attractions.
Padubidri, Karnataka
This one is another preferable location for someone who wishes to avoid the crowd and enjoy a serene and peaceful holiday away from home. Located in the small town of Padubidri, the beach is approximately a kilometre away from the Padubidri Nagaraj Estate bus stop. It has been said, on certain days, one can experience both, sunset in the west and moonrise in the east simultaneously.
Kappad, Kerala
This beach is located near Koyilandy in Kozhikode. It is embellished with rocks and small hills. The beach was revamped last year with all possible facilities made for tourists.
Rushikonda, Andhra Pradesh
This beach is located on the coast of Bay of Bengal in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. It attracts tourists from all over the country every year. The beach is known for its "golden sands and tidy waves and "lush green plants. You can also go for outdoor adventures like swimming, water skiing, and windsurfing.
Golden Beach, OdishaThis beach is very popular among those who visit the nearby Jagannath temple. The Puri beach features a stretch of golden sand dotted with food stalls.
Radhanagar, Andaman & Nicobar islandsRadhanagar is located at Havelock Island, Andaman, and is known as one of the best beaches in the country. It was also given the title of the "seventh best beach in the world' and Asia's best by Time Magazine.