Westward Beach at Zuma is first beach on U.S. West Coast to receive international Blue Flag eco-award

AMTV/LOS ANGELES, May 24 – The first-ever Blue Flag awarded to a beach on the West Coast of the United States will fly over Zuma in Malibu starting May 25. To commemorate this prestigious environmental and beach safety designation, a flag-raising ceremony will be held Thursday at 2 p.m.

The part of Zuma Beach popularly known as Westward Beach is one of only two recipients of the Blue Flag award in the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii during the first year of eligibility. Internationally, the Blue Flag has been awarded to more than 5,000 beaches, marinas and tourism boats from 50 countries.

Started in 1987, Blue Flag is an international awards program that promotes environmental education and information, environmental management, safety and services, social responsibility, and responsible tourism. Before applying for the honor, Westward Beach had to meet more than 30 criteria related to those categories.