Lake Maggiore is renowned in Italy and abroad for the numerous beach areas situated all along the shores of the lake. The Cannobio and Cannero Riviera's beaches received in 2010 the award ?Blue Flag? for strict water quality and safety standards.

In 2026, Lake Maggiore is considered very clean and safe for swimming, particularly in the mid-lake and northern sections near the Swiss border (Locarno and Ascona) and the Borromean Islands. The lake benefits from rigorous environmental regulations and advanced water treatment systems in both Italy and Switzerland. Most public beaches are regularly tested for bacteria, and many hold the "Blue Flag" status, an international mark of high environmental and quality standards. However, visibility can vary near the southern end (Sesto Calende) due to river runoff and higher boat traffic. Like any large alpine lake, the water is purest in the deeper, open sections. Travelers should always look for local signage at "Lidos" (beach clubs) which provide real-time water quality updates. The "clean" nature of the lake makes it a premier destination for sailing, diving, and open-water swimming, with the surrounding Alps acting as a natural filter for the snowmelt that feeds the basin.