Sunbeds on Greek islands banned in 2024?
Sunbeds on Greek islands banned? Well not exactly. Bowing to some public pressure and attention brought by concerned locals in Paros and some of the other islands, Prime Minister of Greece Kyriakos Mitsotakis shared news of the new rules on TikTok. Essentially at least 70% of beach area must be kept clear of obstructions (ie sunbeds), there must be 4m clearance from the shoreline to any sunbeds and operators will need to be licensed as well as proving that they are caring for the beach environment.
What impact will this have in 2024?
It’s fair to say that no-one really knows. Will it be enforceable in 2024 and will/how will it be enforced? Sunbeds on greek islands are enjoyed by many visitors (even though the cost has increased substantially in recent years) and are a source of income for many of the operators. The sunbeds on Greek islands allow visitors who have not got their own shade (ie most) to enjoy the beach for longer
There has been a 50% limit in place for some years and indeed there have been some inspections and resulting court cases where operators have exceeded the allowable area. There has also been some evidence that once inspections have been completed, operators resume their set up of the beds exceeding the 50% level.
There is also the practicality of inspection and enforcement to be considered given the number of beaches to cover and the small size of the resources to enforce. Where they might get some help is from the local active groups such as the Parian Citizens Movement and the various branches of the ‘Towel Movement’ who will no doubt help to point out any exceptions.
