Fines And Penalties On Spanish Beaches

Spain’s coastline is one of the country’s greatest treasures, attracting locals and tourists alike year-round. But whether you live in Spain full-time or are simply here on holiday, it's important to know that Spanish beaches are not free-for-all zones — and failing to follow local regulations can cost you dearly.

In 2025, beach laws across Spain remain under the jurisdiction of local councils, with each municipality enforcing its own bylaws in line with the national Ley de Costas 22/1988. That means the rules — and the fines — can vary significantly from one town to the next.

From smoking and sleeping to barbecuing and bathing, there are dozens of seemingly innocent activities that could land you a fine of up to €3,000. Here’s what you need to know before heading down to the sand.

Can you shower with soap at the beach?

No — washing with soap, shampoo, or any personal hygiene products at beach showers is prohibited nationwide. These products damage marine ecosystems and violate public hygiene standards. In places like Malaga, Valencia, and Benidorm, you can even be fined for using soap in the sea itself. The fine? Up to €750.

Can you sleep or camp on the beach?

No, unless in a designated camping zone. In popular regions like Valencia, beach sleeping and wild camping can result in fines up to €1,500. It’s a public order issue — authorities cite safety, litter, and overcrowding as key concerns. Read more about beach camping rules here.

Is nudism allowed on all beaches?

No. Nudism is only legal on officially designated nudist beaches. Stripping off on a regular public beach can get you fined up to €750.

Can you smoke or vape on the beach?

It depends. Over 600 smoke-free beaches exist in Spain as of 2025 — and the number is growing. Regions enforcing bans include Galicia, Andalusia, the Balearic Islands, Murcia, Asturias, and the Canary Islands. In these areas, smoking or vaping outside of designated zones could cost you €30–€2,000, depending on local rules and repeat offences.

Are beach barbecues allowed?

Only with a permit. Lighting up a barbecue without authorisation can lead to massive fines. In Salobreña (Granada), fines can reach €3,000. Always check with the local town hall before grilling.

Can you play music or use speakers?

Yes, but only within limits. In areas like Chipiona (Cádiz), using loudspeakers or musical instruments can incur fines of up to €300. Disturbing beachgoers or breaching noise ordinances during rest hours (usually siesta or nighttime) may result in larger penalties — up to €900.

Can you play sports on the beach?

Sometimes. Games like paddleball, football, or volleyball are usually only allowed in designated zones. In Malaga, these activities must take place at least six metres from other beachgoers. Violations can result in fines between €100–€600.

Are pets allowed on the beach?

Only on pet-friendly beaches. Dogs are banned from many beaches during high season (typically June to September). Some allow access early in the morning or late at night. Bringing a dog to a restricted beach can lead to a fine of up to €1,500. Guide dogs are always permitted.

Can you urinate in the sea?

Believe it or not — no. The city of Vigo (Galicia) made headlines with a 2022 bylaw banning urination in the sea. The rule still stands in 2025, with fines of up to €750 for anyone caught violating public hygiene regulations.

Can you drink alcohol on the beach?

In most places, no. Many councils prohibit public drinking on beaches — especially in tourist-heavy areas like Barcelona, Valencia, and Malaga. If caught, fines may range from €100 to over €1,000.

Is sex on the beach illegal?

Yes. Public sex — on beaches or elsewhere — violates public decency laws. In areas like Benidorm, it's explicitly prohibited and enforced. Expect fines between €300 and €1,500.

Is there a curfew for beach use?

Sometimes. Some municipalities enforce nighttime bans for safety and cleaning purposes. In Benidorm, for instance, beach access is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Are inflatables, tents, or sunbeds regulated?

Yes. Inflatables, large umbrellas, tents, and personal sunbeds may be banned or restricted depending on the municipality. In Barcelona and the Balearics, unauthorised sunbed rentals or large personal setups in crowded areas can be fined up to €1,500.

Can you film or fly drones on the beach?

Only with permits. In 2025, many coastal towns require authorisation for filming (including influencer content) or flying drones. Unauthorized commercial content or drone flights near people can result in fines starting from €601 under Spain’s drone laws.

So how can you stay safe from fines?

• Look for posted signs when you arrive at the beach.
• Check with the local town hall (ayuntamiento) or tourist office if in doubt.
• Use official apps or maps listing pet-friendly and smoke-free beaches.
• Don’t assume rules are the same across municipalities — they often aren’t.

While beach fines might seem harsh, they’re ultimately designed to protect the coastline, public health, and the experience for everyone. So enjoy the sun, respect local rules — and keep your holiday free of unwanted surprises.

Want to explore some of Spain’s most spectacular shores? Check out: Are These The 12 Best Beaches In Spain?

This article was brought to you by HealthPlan — the health insurance in Spain specialists.