Overview

• Roughly 80% of the coastline is not freely accessible, with private clubs, villas and restaurants occupying most seafront areas, according to NGO Nahnoo.
• CNRS tests find heavy bacterial contamination at key public sites such as Beirut’s Ramlet al-Baida, and the institute advises against bathing there.
• Weekday entry at private beach clubs in the capital averages €17–€25, rising to about €51 on weekends, with venues like Sporting charging at least €30.
• The prolonged economic crisis since 2019 leaves many households unable to afford club fees or fuel to reach alternative beaches, and public transport remains limited.
• This summer’s severe drought has left water levels unusually low, while constrained rainwater storage and political blockages hinder needed infrastructure projects.