Donegal’s beaches get international seal of approval

Donegal has gained a Blue Flag for the 2025 bathing season, with An Taisce awarding 14 to the county following the return of Greencastle Marina to the scheme.

Greencastle, which was first recognised in 2017, has regained its Blue Flag following a two year hiatus when it withdrew from the programme due to construction works on the harbour’s new breakwater.

With 14 awards, Donegal is second only to Kerry (15) in terms of Blue Flags awarded by An Taisce, which oversees the programme here in Ireland. An Taisce says that the 99 awards made across the 26-Counties this year is a new record.

Donegal’s Blue Flag beaches are at Bundoran, Carrickfinn, Culdaff, Downings, Fintra, Killahoey, Marble Hill, Murvagh, Narin, Portsalon, Rossnowlagh and Shroove. Greencastle and Rathmullan are two of just ten marinas in the Republic, including Rathmullan, to achieve the coveted Blue Flag status.

To qualify for a Blue Flag, a beach much have excellent water quality underpinned by regular testing, have and maintain adequate parking and access for visitors, as well as providing toilets, bins and first aid equipment, and strictly limit and control access by dogs and other domestic animals.
Crucially, a Blue Flag beach must also maintain an adequate number of lifeguards and lifesaving equipment.

Donegal County Council says it will have lifeguards at all its Blue Flag beaches this summer, and at Rathmullan, and says that all are fully wheelchair accessible and beach wheelchairs are available to the public at each beach.

READ MORE: No lifeguards on Buncrana beaches

In addition, beaches at Ballyheirnan, Dooey, Drumnatinney, Magheroarty and Port Arthur have all received Green Coast awards for 2025, Port Arthur having regained its award for the first time since 2018 due in part to improved water quality over the past few years.
The Green Coast award recognises beaches for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty.

“Donegal County Council encourages the public to enjoy our award-winning beaches in a safe and sustainable manner,” the local authority said in a statement. “Beach users are also reminded to take care in, or on the water and take note of water safety precautions.

“The public are also asked to leave no trace on our beaches, other than footprints.
“If bins are provided dispose of your waste in a bin otherwise, please take your waste with you to dispose of it in a responsible manner.

It is extremely important for the county that it receives this international recognition for our beaches and the role that they play in the county’s economy.

“Also, we acknowledge and thank all the local communities, and the roles they play, working alongside Donegal County Council in ensuring that the county secured these awards.

“Donegal’s world class beaches along with its spectacular scenery and friendly welcome make it a great place to live, work and visit.”