Louth County Council is pleased to announce that the county has retained Blue Flag status for Clogherhead, Port, and Templetown beaches for 2026. Seapoint, Termonfeckin has again received a Green Coast Award.
The Blue Flag programme is now in its 41st year. It is recognised worldwide as a mark of high standards in water quality, environmental management, safety and education. The Green Coast Award, now in its 23rd year, recognises beaches with excellent water quality and outstanding natural beauty.
These awards reflect the strong partnership between Louth County Council, local communities and coastal groups. Volunteers play a vital role in helping to keep our beaches clean, safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Speaking at the Blue Flag raising ceremony at Port Beach, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Seán Kelly said:
“Our coastline and beaches are a key part of Louth’s identity and something we are all very proud of. Our Blue Flag beaches are important local amenities that people enjoy every day. These awards recognise the work of our communities, volunteers and council staff in protecting these special places for everyone to enjoy.”
Chief Executive, David Conway, added:
“We are very proud to retain these prestigious awards for our beaches, which reflect the ongoing commitment of Louth County Council, coastal groups and local communities.
“In particular, I would like to acknowledge the important role of volunteers, along with the council team, whose dedication helps to maintain the high standards that make our beaches such valued amenities.
“We remain committed to working in partnership to protect and enhance our coastline for the benefit of everyone.”
A total of 95 Blue Flag awards and 73 Green Coast Awards were presented across the country for the 2026 season.
Louth County Council also advises that its Beach Lifeguard Service returns this weekend from Saturday, 6th June, marking the start of the 2026 bathing season. Lifeguards will be on duty at the Blue Flag beaches of Port, Templetown, and Clogherhead on weekends throughout June, daily during July and August, and again on weekends in September until Sunday, 15th September, operating from 11:00am to 6:00pm. Visitors are reminded to always swim between the red and yellow flags, follow lifeguard instructions, never block emergency access routes, and take basic water safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
For more information on Ireland’s Blue Flag beaches visit beaches.ie.