Choosing a beach wisely: this is how the touristic map of Lake Balaton is changing

Not just nostalgia: professional considerations in the background

The “Hungarian sea” continues to attract millions every year, not only from Hungary but also from abroad. In addition to the wide range of bathing, gastronomy, sports and cultural programs on offer, serious professional questions lie behind a holiday at Lake Balaton: what is the quality of the water like? How modern and clean is the infrastructure of each beach? And how is sustainability developing in the region?

A reliable compass: the Blue Wave Flag rating

These questions are answered by the Blue Wave Flag rating published annually by the Balaton Association, which evaluates the region’s beaches based on objective criteria. Among other things, they examine:

• water quality,
• the cleanliness of the shores,
• the condition of the water blocks and shade structures,
• waste management,
• and accessibility.

According to the 2025 evaluation, the Diási Játékstrand in Gyenesdiás took the palm as the best beach, while the Balatonberény village beach proved to be outstanding among the free bathing areas. The title of the most developing beach was given to the Central Beach in Balatonszárszó.

Experience-based competition between beaches

Beach ratings now go beyond water clarity. The experience factor is gaining more and more importance: family and child-friendly services, well-maintained green spaces, online reviews and amenity infrastructure all influence which beach section visitors choose. Competition between beaches is increasingly about overall service quality.

Climate change: new challenges for the future of the lake

While the experience factor is gaining strength, nature is also increasingly making its voice heard in the summer at Lake Balaton. Heat waves, droughts and less rainfall favor algae growth – especially in the shallower parts of the southern shore. Although the authorities currently report good water quality, long-term trends may be a cause for concern. In order to preserve the lake, it is necessary:

• continuous environmental monitoring,
• conscious water management,
• and strengthening sustainable tourism.

The future of the Balaton holiday home: environmentally conscious and informed

Choosing a beach at Balaton is no longer just a matter of sympathy or childhood memories – more and more people are consciously informing themselves about services, prices, infrastructure and environmental conditions. The Blue Wave Flag system and weather and water quality warnings can serve as a useful compass for planning. The future of Balaton also depends on how well visitors and service providers are able to adapt to the changed circumstances – in the name of quality, sustainability and shared responsibility.