Strict rules on Gran Canaria: fines of up to 3000 euros!

Strict rules on Gran Canaria: fines of up to 3000 euros!

The holiday season has begun and many people are looking for a suitable destination for their summer vacation. Gran Canaria is recommended by experts as a quieter holiday destination for sun worshipers, especially compared to crowded Mallorca, which has been attracting large numbers of tourists since the end of April. In 2024, the island was visited by over 4.7 million tourists, which meant a record turnover of 6,000 million euros. Nevertheless, the Canary Islands are increasingly struggling with the challenges of mass tourism and the corresponding negative effects on the environment and the local population.

To address these challenges, stricter regulations for tourists have been introduced in the coastal region of Agaete on Gran Canaria from the 2025 season. These regulations aim to both promote environmental protection and improve the relationship between locals and holidaymakers. The island's population is currently around 850,000 people, comparable to cities such as Cologne or Frankfurt am Main. The high number of tourists leads to a tight housing market and a lack of water resources.

New fines and bans

From 2025, fines in Agaete for various violations of the new regulations can reach up to 3000 euros. Penalties for minor offenses start at 30 euros. Sexual acts in the water, in bathing areas and in coastal areas are particularly targeted because these are considered inappropriate. Nude bathing remains permitted in the region, but with certain exceptions.

In addition to the regulations governing tourist behavior, other bans have been introduced to protect the environment. Cooking and smoking on the beach are now prohibited to avoid garbage accumulation. Washing with shampoo and shower gel is also prohibited to prevent water pollution. Nudism is also not permitted outside of designated swimming areas, and loud music and barbecues in public places are also banned under the new regulations.

Reactions and future outlook

The implementation of these strict regulations comes in response to growing criticism from locals who complain about the negative impact of mass tourism. Overcrowded natural parks and environmental pollution from tourists are some of the central problems. In addition, local protests are demanding an upper limit for tourists, more environmental protection measures and affordable housing for the local population.

The Canary Islands regional government is currently considering further measures to regulate tourism in order to ensure the quality of life of the residents. This also includes planning to restructure the use of tourist properties in order to reduce pressure on the housing market. While the tourist tax will be collected in popular tourist regions, it remains to be seen how these new measures will affect Gran Canaria's attractiveness in the long term, without neglecting the needs of locals. The fight against overtourism on Gran Canaria is therefore becoming a central challenge.

For news on this topic refer to express.de on developments in this regard, during watson.de provides further background information on the new regulations and their effects.