Overview

• Barcelona and Costa Blanca resorts now impose a €250 fine for placing towels on sunbeds before opening hours or leaving them unattended for extended periods.
• Calpe’s municipal council has empowered local police to clear towels and remove sunbeds before 9:30 am, forcing rule-breakers to collect items from a depot and pay the penalty.
• Hotels across the Balearic Islands and mainland Spain have adopted warning-ticket systems or strict time limits on unoccupied loungers to manage growing demand.
• Previous sunbed rushes sparked 'stampedes', heated arguments, and physical fights among holidaymakers competing for limited poolside seating.
• Italy has banned wearing swimwear outside designated bathing areas with penalties up to €500 as part of broader efforts to regulate tourist conduct.