BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2025 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — The City of Boca Raton won a major award for the beach at Spanish River Park. The “Blue Flag” Award is sought after by communities with beaches nationwide. We are pleased to publish the official announcement from Boca, as shared with BocaNewsNow.com:
>> The City of Boca Raton is proud to announce that the beach at Spanish River Park, from Tower 18 to the southern boundary of the park, has been awarded the coveted international Blue Flag Beach Award for the upcoming season, May 1, 2025 through April 30, 2026. This is the first time a Boca Raton beach has received the prestigious designation—marking a significant achievement in coastal management, sustainability, and environmental education. Boca Raton’s beach is one of just three beaches in the United States to be recognized.
The Blue Flag Beach Award is one of the most recognized tourism management awards in the world. It is administered internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) and managed in the continental U. S., Alaska, and Hawaii by the American Shore and Beach Preservation Association (ASBPA). The annual award celebrates high-quality beach destinations that meet and maintain over 30 rigorous criteria in environmental education, water quality, environmental management, and safety.
“We are proud to see U. S. communities recognized for exceeding national standards and providing additional ways to connect with their unique coastal habitats,” said Annie Mercer, Program Coordinator for the ASBPA. “Beaches are the top tourist attraction in the U. S., attracting 3.4 billion visitors annually. Local management works tirelessly to balance environmental management with leisure activities to ensure a high-quality experience for residents and visitors alike.”
As part of the Blue Flag season, the City will be installing new information boards at the beach at Spanish River Park’s central pavilion, which will share details about local conservation efforts, water quality, water safety, and eco-friendly practices. The official Blue Flag will be raised upon completion of this installation, marking the beginning of the recognized season.
“This international recognition is a testament to the City’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable coastal management,” said Mayor Scott Singer. “Our residents and visitors can take pride in knowing that Spanish River Park beach meets some of the highest standards in the world.”
The City’s free educational programs offered through Gumbo Limbo Nature Center played a vital role in earning the Blue Flag designation, setting Boca Raton apart from other municipalities by fostering environmental awareness and community engagement in protecting our coastal ecosystems. The award also highlights the City’s mature dune ecosystem and the dedicated efforts of City staff at all levels.
“This is not just an honor—it’s a reflection of the passion and hard work our team invests in maintaining our natural coastal resources,” said Tina Batoh-Jennings, the City’s Sustainability Manager. “Being awarded on our very first application is an extraordinary achievement for the City and our community as a whole.” <<
