As summer peaks across Europe, coastal authorities are cracking down on behaviors that threaten fragile ecosystems and local quality of life. From the Mediterranean to the Atlantic, a patchwork of new rules—some surprising—now governs what you can do on the sand and in the surf.
Beach Equipment Restrictions
In Sardinia, the fight against overcrowding has led to novel measures. At Punta Molentis in Villasimius, umbrellas, tents, and gazebos are now limited to one per family or group, and must be placed where attendants direct. Initially, only those over 65 or with children under 10 were allowed such equipment, but a public backlash softened the rule. On Pelosa Beach, also in Sardinia, visitors must place mats under their towels to trap less sand; violators risk €100 on-the-spot fines.
Greece has gone further, designating 251 beaches where no structures—including sunbeds, umbrellas, or temporary wooden installations—are permitted at all.
Smoking Bans Spread Across Coasts
Spain now counts over 600 beaches where smoking and vaping are prohibited, including in Barcelona, San Sebastián, and many in the Canary Islands and Balearics. France introduced a nationwide ban last year on lighting up near bathing waters, with fines of €135. Italy has followed suit in regions like Veneto, Emilia-Romagna, Sardinia, and Puglia.
Swimwear Stays on the Beach
Urban centers near beaches are increasingly fining those who wander in swimwear. In Sorrento, Italy, a bikini or swimming trunks in town can cost up to €500. Portugal's Albufeira imposes fines of €300 to €1,500 for wearing only swimwear outside designated beach, hotel, or pool areas. In Barcelona and Majorca, toplessness or swimwear in shops and restaurants can lead to €300 fines.
Malaga's city hall has posted signs in English reminding visitors that local decency rules apply to everyone. In Croatia, Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar have passed 'disturbances to public order' laws against bare-chested or swimsuit-clad strolling, with fines up to €150. Nice, France, fines toplessness in town at €35 on the spot, or €38 where bathing topless is prohibited. Even Lake Como's Varenna has joined in, fining bare chests and swimwear up to €200.
Peeing in the Sea? Not Anymore
Vigo, in Spain's Galicia, has since 2022 fined 'physiological evacuation on the beach or in the sea'—peeing—€750. Marbella followed in 2024, banning underwater urination at 25 beaches in the Malaga municipality.
Loud Music Brings Hefty Fines
Portugal's National Maritime Authority banned portable speakers at high volumes in 2023. Individuals face fines between €200 and €4,000; groups can be charged up to €36,000. The offending speaker may also be confiscated.
Animals: Dogs, Horses, and Even Elephants
Dogs are banned from many beaches in Italy, Spain, France, and Croatia during high season, especially Blue Flag areas, or allowed only at specific times. Horses face similar summer restrictions. And in Granville, Normandy, elephants have been prohibited since 2009, after a traveling circus let its elephants bathe in the sea, leaving droppings in the water.
As Europe's beaches face mounting pressure from tourism and climate change, these rules reflect a growing determination to preserve coastal environments. Travelers are advised to check local regulations before packing their bags—and their speakers.
