Grand Bend Beach, Grand Bend Marina, and the Port Franks Marina have all earned the prestigious Blue Flag Canada designation for an 18th consecutive year.
Lambton Shores Deputy Mayor Dan Sageman is thrilled.
"We're happy to say were Blue Flag again this year," Sageman said. "The flag's flying right now on Grand Bend Main Beach and we're always proud to say that we're part of that program."
In 2026, Blue Flags were only awarded to 13 beaches and 10 marinas in Canada.
Canatara Park Beach in Sarnia retained its Blue Flag status as well.
"[Blue Flag] has it's own set of qualifications and I think that people are looking for that, in terms of a combination of cleanliness of the beach but also retention of some natural features and the service level. So, I think it's important and that's why we participate every year in that program."
The Blue Flag designation is an international award given to beaches and marinas that meet high environmental, safety, and cleanliness standards.
It tells visitors the beach or marina is managed sustainably, is accessible, and has high-quality services and safety procedures.
Blue Flag beaches also actively monitor water quality.
An organization called Swim Drink Fish operates Blue Flag Canada on behalf of Blue Flag International and the Foundation for Environmental Education.
