Calpe, Spain fines tourists €250 for reserving beach spots with towels

Calpe town council on Spain’s Costa Blanca has introduced a rule that forbids beachgoers from reserving a spot by leaving towels, parasols or chairs unattended before 9:30 a.m. Violators can be charged €250 (about £216) and must pay the fine to retrieve their belongings. The regulation also applies after the morning cutoff: any items left unattended for more than three hours may be removed under the same penalty.

The measure aims to ensure fair access to the sand, reduce clutter and improve safety and cleanliness during the busy summer season. Calpe is a popular destination for British holidaymakers, and the rule is part of a wider trend of Spanish municipalities adopting local beach by‑laws covering smoking, loud music and littering. Spain welcomed over 94 million international visitors in 2024, with coastal resorts remaining among the most frequented attractions.

Travel advisories from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office remind visitors to check local signage and avoid leaving personal items unattended to prevent unexpected fines.