Published on
August 1, 2025
UK holidaymakers heading to Spain in the next few months should be aware of sunbed rules or they could face a fine. Tourists are urged not to put towels on loungers if they have no intention of using them, and instead wait until it’s time for tanning. But when in doubt, it’s always best to inquire at the hotel or with resort staff for their sunbed guidelines.
British visitors, meanwhile, are encouraged to keep abreast of any other changes in local rules or tourist taxes that they can expect at their holiday hotspot. The tourism industry in Spain is rapidly changing, and many tourists may be unaware of new laws that they could find themselves unintentionally flouting.
A Crackdown on Reserved Sunbeds
The new rule is already being implemented in parts of the Spanish mainland, including tourist hotspots such as Barcelona and Costa Blanca both places which are visited by many Britons every year. Tourists who try to book sunbeds in the early hours but not use them could be forced to pay large fines. The rule has been introduced after countless grumbles from both tourists and locals about the shortage of sunbeds that were being laid on by other people, with authorities wanting to make sure every wanted a seat was able to have one.
The crackdown has particularly taken its toll on British tourists who are more likely to book a sunlounger at the start of the day. In a lot of European countries, we have all seen beachgoers reserving loungers by throwing towels or personal items over them in the morning and thereby claim said territory. But this behavior has also sparked complaints of overcrowding and unfairness, particularly at the height of tourist season.
In wake of these regulation concerns, the Spanish have decided to go with this hard line new policy that can prove costly for tourists if caught playing fast and loose. Tourists who failed to use their reserved sunbed could be fined around €250, or a hefty £216. The development has been greeted with concern by UK holidaymakers accustomed to this booking practice and now at risk of incurring a hefty fine.
Why the New Regulation Was Introduced
The new sunbed tax comes in response to “numerous” complaints regarding the practice of reserving sunbeds for hours on end without occupying them. According to government sources, this practice has become increasingly prevalent, especially in high-demand tourist areas such as Barcelona and Costa Blanca, where the influx of tourists often outnumbers the available sunbeds.
The fines are seen as a solution to ensure that everyone has equal access to sunbeds during their stay, as it prevents individuals from “hogging” sunbeds for hours at a time, leaving others unable to enjoy the beach or pool. Spanish authorities hope that by implementing this measure, they will encourage fairer behavior and make better use of the limited sunbed availability.
While some may view the new rule as an inconvenience, it is part of a broader effort to regulate tourism in Spain and ensure that everyone can enjoy the country’s beautiful beaches and resorts. In recent years, overcrowding in popular tourist destinations has become a growing concern, prompting local governments to adopt more stringent measures to manage the influx of visitors.
Tourist Reactions and the Impact on Holidaymakers
For many UK tourists, the new sunbed tax has come as a surprise. Despite the frustration, travel experts suggest that the new law may have a positive effect in the long run by reducing overcrowding and ensuring that sunbeds are available to all who need them. However, it may take time for tourists to adjust to the change, and many holidaymakers are likely to be caught off guard during their first encounter with the fines.
Experts have also noted that while the new regulation may be unpopular with some, it could lead to a more enjoyable experience for others, as it ensures a fairer distribution of sunbeds. For those looking to avoid fines, it is advisable to either use the sunbeds once they are reserved or refrain from placing towels on loungers until they are ready to use them.
What Tourists Need to Know
UK holidaymakers travelling to Spain over the next few months need to know about new sunbed laws or risk hefty fines. There is no need to reserve sunbeds and allow them unattended, simply go for the loungers when you are ready. When in doubt, it’s worth asking hotel staff or resort employees to learn their sunbed rules.
British holidaymakers should also be aware of any other local laws or tourist charges they will have to keep up on before traveling. Spain’s tourism scene is changing, and visitors who aren’t up to date on the latest rules are likely find themselves unwittingly running afoul with the law.
The Future of Sunbed Reservations in Spain
And as summer rolls around we can probably expect to see more Spanish resorts and beaches looking at similar sunbed rules in an attempt to beat overcrowding, improve inclusivity when it comes down catching a few rays on the beach. Despite the fact that sunbed tax is a contentious issue among tourists, it’s an indicator of increasing regulation and control in Spain when it comes to tourism.
With a rising demand for sustainable and responsible tourism, the plans could provide an example to other popular travel hotspots across Europe and beyond. Spain is paving the path for other countries to follow suit by introducing rules that guarantee better allocation of resources.
All in all then, UK holidaymakers heading to Spain this summer should know about the new sun bed tax and adhere to local laws or face being hit with fines. With a few precautions, holidaymakers can still enjoy Spain’s majestic beaches and resorts without fear of being fined.
