Pensioners at a holiday resort were surprised when fines were imposed on visitors reserving sunbeds at a specific time. Two elderly vacationers were cautioned by a local council near Valencia, Spain, for securing their spots on the beachfront before 8 am. The individuals, aged 75 and 80, were found in breach of regulations for accessing San Antonio beach at Cullera, which prohibits access between 5 am and 8 am for cleaning purposes.
The police discovered the pensioners marking their space by the shoreline, an act explicitly banned by local rules. It is prohibited to reserve beach spots during these months by placing umbrellas, towels, or other items, even if left unattended. Offenders can face fines ranging from 300 to 750 euros, aiming to ensure fair beach access, cleanliness, and order.
The council emphasized that the rules are not meant for punishment but to promote citizen harmony and the efficient operation of essential public beaches like San Antonio during the summer. Valencia had previously warned of strict enforcement on rule violations by tourists and locals alike. The “war of the umbrellas” in Spanish resorts has been a recurring issue, leading to campaigns and ordinances since 2017 to combat beach space reservations.
In the latest effort to enforce regulations, fines ranging from 300 to 750 euros for minor cases and up to 3,000 euros for severe violations can be imposed by the police. British holidaymakers might also face a new ‘sunbed tax’ in Spain, with penalties exceeding £200 for reserving sun loungers in certain destinations. This crackdown is implemented in popular areas like Barcelona and Costa Blanca to address complaints of sunbeds being held without use for extended periods.
There is a growing discontent among UK tourists towards perceived exploitation by the EU, with calls for a peaceful boycott to induce change. Some express support for the fines, stating it’s overdue to prevent selfish behavior on beaches. The debate continues as tourists contemplate alternative holiday destinations in response to the stricter regulations in Spain.
