In 2026, Abruzzo once again ranks among the Italian regions with the cleanest beaches and highest-quality services: 16 Blue Flags were awarded—the same number as the previous year—demonstrating a well-established commitment to environmental protection and sustainable land management.
This result spans the entire Adriatic coast, from the province of Teramo to the border with Molise, and also includes two precious inland destinations: Lakes Scanno and Villalago, symbols of a beach culture that also looks toward the mountains.
For those traveling along the A24 and A25 highways, Abruzzo’s Blue Flag beaches are easily accessible destinations, ideal for a summer getaway that combines the sea, nature, and charming villages.
Teramo Coast: Seven Blue Flags in a Row
The initial stretch of the Abruzzo coastline, easily accessible from the A24 via the exit toward the Adriatic coast, is the most highly awarded of all: no fewer than seven consecutive municipalities—a rare occurrence on the national scene.
From north to south:
- Martinsicuro, home to the renowned beaches of Villa Rosa and Martinsicuro.
- Alba Adriatica, the famous “Silver Beach.”
- Tortoreto, with wide sandy beaches and a lively nightlife.
- Giulianova, a historic town, with its marina and tree-lined waterfront.
- Roseto degli Abruzzi, with distinct characteristics in the north, center, and south.
- Pineto, one of the most iconic towns thanks to its pine forest and the Cerrano Tower.
- Silvi, the gateway to the Pescara area and a historic vacation destination.
From the A24 (Rome–Teramo), it takes just a few minutes to reach this stretch of coastline: it’s the ideal choice for families and anyone looking for comfort, well-equipped beach facilities, and shallow waters.
Pescara: The Urban Heart of the Coast
Traveling down the Adriatic coast, you’ll come to Pescara, the only municipality in the province to have been awarded the Blue Flag again in 2026.
The award-winning areas are:
- Northern/Central Riviera
- Southern Riviera
In addition to these, there is recognition for the Marina di Pescara tourist marina, a sign of the attention also given to port facilities and nautical services.
Take the A25 (Torano–Pescara) to reach the coast directly: Pescara is perfect for those who want to combine the beach, city life, and quick connections.
Trabocchi Coast: Six Gems Where Nature Meets Tradition
Continuing south, the province of Chieti boasts six Blue Flags along one of the most picturesque stretches of the Adriatic, the Costa dei Trabocchi, characterized by coves, cliffs, and ancient wooden fishing structures.
The award-winning destinations are:
- Francavilla al Mare , a historic seaside resort—quiet and well-equipped—is ideal for families.
- Ortona, which includes the villages of Foro, Lido Riccio, and Lido dei Saraceni, is characterized by a succession of inlets, bays, cliffs, and headlands overlooking the sea, with lush Mediterranean vegetation, as seen in the famous Ripari di Giobbe.
- Fossacesia nestles among the rolling hills of the province of Chieti and is crowned by the splendid Cistercian Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere, which overlooks the vast gulf below from the heights of the Promontory of Venere.
- Torino di Sangro has a coastline of about six kilometers, divided equally between the sandy beach at “Le Morge” and the pebble beach at “Costa Verde.”
- Vasto boasts several award-winning stretches, from Punta Aderci to San Tommaso, from the small coves to the north all the way to the large, well-equipped beach at Vasto Marina.
- San Salvo, where the long beach of Vasto Marina continues, enhanced by the “Le Marinelle” Marina.
From the A25-A14 interchange, you can easily access the entire coastline, but the route to the southern coast takes you to a wilder stretch of sea, perfect for those seeking authentic landscapes and leisurely journeys—including by bike along the Via Verde dei Trabocchi, a bike and pedestrian path stretching over 40 km that connects Ortona to San Salvo.
Blue Flag Lakes: Swimming in the Mountains
Right by the sea, Abruzzo boasts two outstanding freshwater destinations:
- Lake Scanno
- Villalago (small beach)
This is a rare occurrence in Italy: two mountain lake destinations, both over 1,000 meters in elevation, recognized for the quality of their waters and their natural surroundings.
Both locations are easily accessible from the A25 via the Cocullo exit toward the Sagittario Valley: perfect for those looking for an alternative to the beach, surrounded by nature, tranquility, and cooler temperatures.
Traveling along the A24 and A25: The Sea Just a Short Drive Away
The A24 Rome–Teramo and A25 Torano–Pescara highways provide a direct link between the Apennine hinterland and the Abruzzo coast, allowing travelers to quickly reach all the major Blue Flag resorts.
- A24: ideal for reaching the Teramo coast
- A25: Strategic Route to Pescara and the Teatina Coast
- Quick connections to inland areas and lakes
The confirmation of 16 Blue Flags for 2026 demonstrates the ongoing investment in wastewater treatment, public services, waste management, and environmental protection—elements that form the basis of the FEE’s international criteria. This system makes Abruzzo an easily accessible destination, where you can go from the mountains to the sea in less than an hour.
