Spain remains a top choice for British holidaymakers, but issues like excessive drinking and over-tourism have led popular destinations such as the Canary Islands and Balearic Islands to implement stricter rules for visitors.
Recent regulations cover various aspects, including preventing sunbed hogging, imposing vaping restrictions, and even a ‘bikini ban’ in certain places. Violating these rules could lead to significant fines, so travelers should stay informed before their next Spanish vacation.
One major update involves Spain’s crackdown on vaping, with penalties similar to those for smoking. An outdoor smoking ban introduced in 2025 covers public areas like restaurant terraces and beaches, with fines ranging from €30 to €2,000 for offenses like vaping in prohibited zones.
Travelers planning to rent a car in Spain should choose appropriate footwear as driving regulations require shoes that allow proper pedal control. Wearing flip-flops or high heels could result in fines ranging from €80 to €200 for lacking adequate vehicle control.
Additionally, some Spanish destinations have enforced dress codes beyond the beach or poolside, mandating visitors to cover up in public areas. Violating these rules could lead to fines of up to €500 in certain regions.
In response to issues with intoxicated tourists, certain areas in Spain, like the Balearic Islands, have banned happy hours, all-you-can-drink promotions, and party boat excursions to curb excessive drinking and disruptive behavior. Hotels in Majorca have also limited daily drinks to prevent binge drinking.
Moreover, resorts are cracking down on street drinking and illegal parties, while hotels may evict guests for dangerous balcony behavior. Some beaches are penalizing sunbed reservation with fines, aiming to deter tourists from monopolizing prime spots.
While not all rule violations result in fines, many Spanish hotels are taking action against sunbed monopolizers by confiscating belongings or issuing warnings for leaving sunbeds unattended. Travelers should stay aware of these regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to Spain.
