Bad beach behaviour which could land €3,000 fine

We are in the peak of holiday season, and millions of beachgoers have flocked to Spain’s Costa del Sol. However, local authorities in popular destinations like Malaga, Marbella, Fuengirola, Torrox, and Rincón de la Victoria have rolled out updated beach regulations, some carrying fines of up to €3,000, aimed at curbing unsocial behaviour and ensuring a peaceful coexistence for all.

New rules in Marbella that were implemented in 2024 sparked heated debate. One controversial rule bans urinating in the sea, with violators facing fines of €750. This rule was introduced with some confusion, as beachgoers wondered how the police would prove this crime.

Malaga council has taken a particularly strict stance against beach games, such as paddleball. These can be disruptive to beachgoers on non-designated beaches. Playing in these zones could lead to fines of up to €3,000, with a minimum penalty of €300 for such “uncivil conduct”. Malaga also prohibits unauthorised selling of food and drinks and has long enforced fines of €300 for urinating in the sea or on the sand.

Other behaviors are also being scrutinized. Marbella and Torrox banned the practice of reserving parasols on beaches. This has caused controversy, especially in Marbella.

Smoking, and discarding butts on beach could cost €3,000

The local police will keep an eye out for any littering such as cigarette stubs or food scraps not being disposed of in the designated bins. If found, fines can be issued to maintain the cleanliness along the coastline. The local police and council must approve any unauthorised beach parties. In fact, smoking on most beaches in the Costa del Sol is a no-no in 2025, with fines reaching to as much as €3,000 in some areas.

Torrox has taken the lead in introducing pet-friendly zones on its beaches. Fuengirola, meanwhile, is preparing to introduce a canine lifeguarding service by summer 2025. Torrox, which was among the first places to ban the use of parasols and towels to reserve beach spots, has updated its bylaws in order to prohibit camping along the coast. This is in accordance with the national regulations, which restrict sleeping on the beach to improve order and cleanliness.

As the new measures are implemented, local councils are increasing their surveillance and cleaning efforts in order to ensure greater compliance. Although the new rules aim to improve beach experiences for all, there have been lively discussions in social media about their practicality. Others welcome the push for more courtesy. Beachgoers should familiarise themselves on the local rules to avoid any unexpected fines.

It is illegal to walk through the streets in Malaga or Marbella, even if you are just taking a short break or stopping for a snack, without a shirt, or in your swimsuit. This does not apply to the promenade, or to the surrounding areas. The municipal bylaws of Malaga and Marbella punish these behaviours with fines ranging between €300 and €750. This measure is intended to maintain an appropriate level of decorum within urban areas, away from beaches.