European beaches impose strict rules and fines as overtourism rises
Across dozens of European coastal destinations, authorities are tightening regulations to curb overtourism and protect fragile ecosystems. Restrictions include bans on beach umbrellas, tents and portable shelters in places such as Punta Molentis and La Pelosa in Sardinia, with fines of up to €100 for violations. Greece now prohibits any construction on 251 beaches, while Spain, France, Italy and Portugal have introduced smoke‑free zones covering more than 600 beaches, imposing fines of €135‑€12,000.
Cities adjacent to the shore are also targeting public dress codes. In Sorrento (Italy) a bikini in town can cost up to €500, while similar penalties of €150‑€300 apply in Croatian resorts, French Nice, Spanish Barcelona and Portuguese Albufeira. Additional offences such as urinating in the sea (Vigo, Spain) and playing loud music on the sand (Portugal) carry fines ranging from €750 to several thousand euros. Some popular sites, notably several Sardinian beaches, now require online reservations and entry fees during the high season to limit visitor numbers.
These measures aim to preserve coastal environments, reduce nuisance to residents, and manage the growing pressure of mass tourism throughout Europe.