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Date Published: 04/08/2026

Five surprising ways you can be fined on Spain's beaches this summer

Many Spanish resorts have strict beach bylaws that catch visitors out every summer

A trip to the beach is one of the highlights of summer in Spain, but before you pack your towel and head for the coast, it's worth brushing up on the local rules.

While most people know littering is a bad idea, there are plenty of lesser-known regulations that can also land you with a fine, and one of the biggest surprises involves something as simple as using the beach shower.

1. Using soap in beach showers

Beach showers are there to rinse off salt and sand, not for a full wash. That's because shampoo, shower gel and soap contain chemicals that can end up in the sea, where they contribute to pollution and encourage algae growth.

Although Spain's Coastal Law doesn't specifically mention soap, many municipalities have introduced their own bylaws. In places including Alicante, Tarifa and El Puerto de Santa María, using soap in beach showers can lead to fines of up to €750.

2. Smoking on the beach

Lighting up on the sand isn't banned everywhere, but the list of smoke-free beaches grows every year.

Beaches in places such as San Sebastián, Barcelona, Altea, L'Alfàs del Pi, La Vila Joiosa and Finestrat have introduced smoking bans, with fines varying depending on the local council. In San Sebastián, penalties can reach €750.

3. Reserving your spot before everyone else

If you're the type to place an umbrella on the beach at 7am before disappearing for breakfast, think again.

Many popular resorts have rules against leaving umbrellas, chairs and sunbeds unattended to reserve space. Council workers can remove the equipment and, depending on the municipality, you could also face a fine.

The rule is common in busy tourist destinations including Benidorm, Fuengirola and parts of the Costa Blanca, where the infamous “umbrella wars” make the headlines each and every summer.

4. Playing football or noisy ball games

A kickabout on the beach might seem harmless, but it's not always allowed.

Many councils restrict football, volleyball and other ball games to designated areas during the summer, particularly on busy beaches where stray balls can disturb or injure other beachgoers.

Resorts including Marbella, Benidorm and Alicante have bylaws limiting these activities during peak season.

5. Bringing your dog

Your four-legged friend might love the beach, but not every beach welcomes dogs.

Many municipalities ban dogs from their main beaches during the summer months, allowing them only outside the high season or on designated dog-friendly beaches.

Popular tourist areas including Torrevieja, Alicante, Benidorm and Málaga all have beaches where restrictions apply, although each council sets its own rules and dates.

Image: Freepik

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