Gran Canaria Sets Strict New Beach Rules for Tourists – What to Watch Out For

Every summer, thousands of tourists head to the beaches of Gran Canaria looking for sun, sea, and a good time.

But now, one popular area on the island is pushing back. The local government in Agaete has introduced a series of strict new beach rules, reports Digi24.

The goal is to reduce the pressure of overtourism and better protect the environment.

These Are the New Rules

Starting this season, tourists will have to follow several new rules if they want to visit the beaches in this area.

Smoking is no longer allowed, not even e-cigarettes. If you need to smoke, you’ll have to do it in specially marked areas along the seafront.

Bringing your own umbrella is also not allowed unless it’s one approved by the beach authorities.

This is mainly for safety, especially when the winds pick up. Cooking on the beach is banned too.

Whether it’s a full barbecue or just preparing snacks, it’s not allowed. The same goes for camping, setting up tents, or any kind of shelter for shade during the day.

Music and beach parties are now off-limits. Tourists who break the rules and disturb others with loud gatherings or music can be fined up to 3,000 euros.

That’s not a small price to pay for a party on the sand.

Visitors are also being asked to stop collecting shells or moving rocks around.

It might seem harmless, but these small actions can damage fragile ecosystems. Another rule focuses on saving water.

People are no longer allowed to use beach showers for more than a rinse. Using soap, shower gel, or shampoo is now illegal. Filling large water containers or buckets is also banned.

Gran Canaria is not the first to act. Other Spanish islands, like Mallorca, have introduced similar restrictions to keep tourism sustainable.

Officials say these new rules are necessary. They want to make sure locals and visitors alike can enjoy the island’s beaches for years to come.