As more travellers opt to holiday closer to home this summer, UK staycations are set to be one of the biggest summer travel trends of 2025. New research from Visit Britain reveals that over 1 in 3 (35%) UK adults plan to choose a domestic holiday trip, compared to just 28% choosing an overseas trip this summer*.
Recent RNLI figures show lifeguards responded to over 17,000 people last year on UK beaches*, which could have been fewer if beachgoers understood the flag system used to mark safe and unsafe zones.
Therefore, as families, beachgoers, and water-sport enthusiasts head to the coast, caravan holiday provider Parkdean Resorts has revealed the meanings behind the different flag colours and the best blue flag beaches in 2025, so everyone can have a safe and memorable trip.
TRAVEL EXPERT REVEALS THE MEANING BEHIND UK BEACH FLAG COLOURS 🚩
With searches for ‘red flag at beach’ surging by 300% over the past month, travel experts at Parkdean Resorts have revealed what the different coloured safety flags mean, so holidaymakers can safely take a dip.
- One red flag 🟥
The presence of a red flag on the beach signifies that the conditions are not safe for swimming. Do not enter the water as it’s too dangerous to swim, surf or even paddle.
- Two red flags 🟥🟥
This means that the beach can’t be used for any water use, so stay clear of the sea.
- Orange flag 🟧
The presence of an orange windsock signifies strong wind conditions, so beachgoers should be cautious when swimming. Avoid using any inflatables as they could be blown out to sea.
- Red and yellow flag 🟥🟨
A red and yellow flag at the beach signifies that lifeguards are patrolling the area. The area between the flags is the safest area to swim, paddle and use water inflatables.
- Black and white flag ⬛⬜
A black and white chequered flag signifies that the area is designated for water sports, surfing, kayaking and paddle boarding. Swimmers should avoid this area and look for red and yellow flags instead.
- Blue flag 🟦
Blue flags aren’t a safety flag colour but instead they signify excellent beach quality, including water cleanliness, safety provisions and environmental management.
THE UK’S BEST BLUE FLAG BEACHES TO EXPLORE IN 2025 🏄
This year, England boasts 76 Blue Flag beaches, and Wales has 21. While Scotland doesn’t take part in the Blue Flag scheme, many of its beaches hold the independently verified Scottish Beach Award, with 52 beaches receiving this accolade.
Here are Parkdean Resorts’ favourite Blue Flag beaches:
- Trevone Bay, Cornwall
Located on the rugged North Cornwall coast, Trevone Bay is a picturesque sandy cove near Padstow. This Blue Flag winner is a hit with families and surfers alike. Its soft golden sand, rockpools and nearby headland walks offer plenty to explore, and it benefits from lifeguard cover during the summer season.
- Whitley Bay, North Tyneside
Just a stone’s throw from our Whitley Bay Holiday Park, this beach has once again earned Blue Flag status. Stretching along the North East coast, it offers stunning views of St Mary’s Lighthouse and features a wide promenade, clean waters, and family-friendly facilities.
- Sea Palling Beach, Norfolk
This family-favourite beach is known for its calm, protected waters thanks to offshore reefs. Located near Great Yarmouth, it’s perfect for paddling, sunbathing and beachcombing. It also features amusements, cafes, and convenient parking – ideal for a classic seaside day out.
- Trecco Bay, Wales
Right on the doorstep of Trecco Bay Holiday Park, this long sandy beach in Porthcawl is ideal for families. With safe, clean waters and seasonal lifeguards, it’s a haven for sandcastle builders and beachgoers looking for peace of mind.
- Westward Ho!, Devon
Close to Bideford Bay Holiday Park, Westward Ho! is famous for its expansive sands and excellent surfing conditions. The beach is backed by a natural pebble ridge and has superb accessibility, making it a hit with families and watersports fans alike.
EXPLORE THE BEST UK BEACHES SAFELY THIS SUMMER
Ready to make the most of your summer? Book a family getaway to the UK coastline from just £249 in July and £269 in August.
View Parkdean Resorts’ full range of summer caravan holidays.
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*Prices subject to change and availability