Spain has long been a favourite go-to holiday destination for UK tourists, attracting thousands of beach-loving sunseekers every year.
But British holidaymakers planning a beach break in Spain this year are being warned not to break an important rule that could result in a fine of up to £1,679. Smoking in Spain has faced a strict crackdown in recent years, with laws now prohibiting lighting up in all indoor public spaces. While rules on smoking outdoors, such as on beaches and open-air terraces, are a bit more relaxed, there are some restrictions tourists need to be aware of.
Smoking is banned on many beaches across Spain as part of efforts to improve people’s health and to create a clean, unpolluted space for beachgoers, free from cigarette butts.
According to EuroWeekly, a total of 28 beaches in the Balearic Islands are now smoke-free zones, with Playa de Santa Eulalia del Río and Playa de Talamanca among the smoke-free beaches in Ibiza, while in Menorca smoking is banned at Binissafúller and Platja Gran. In Majorca, beaches with smoking bans include Sant Joan, Sa Platgeta, Santa Ponsa, Cala Estància, Cala Sant Vicenç and Caló des Moro.
Andalusia also prohibits smoking on 53 beaches, 61 beaches have banned smoking in the Canary Islands, in Costa Blanca 25% of beaches now ban smoking, and in the Costa del Sol 18 beaches have been declared smoke-free.
Barcelona was the first major city in Spain to ban smoking on beaches, but more than 100 Spanish beaches have since imposed bans.
But a recent rule change now also bans vaping on 10 beaches in Barcelona and 28 in the Balearic Islands, which includes Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. The Spanish government announced in October last year a ban on disposable vapes as part of a new ‘anti-tobacco plan’.
Rechargeable vapes experts WickdUp warn that those who are caught vaping on a beach in Spain face being fined up to €2,000 (around £1,680).
Mike Byers, director of rechargeable vapes shop WickdUp, warned: “Whilst it may be tempting to sneakily use your vape whilst relaxing on the beach, it is important to abide by local regulations and laws.
“Smoking is generally permitted in private, open-air terraces of bars and restaurants, provided that the area is not enclosed or covered by more than two walls and a roof.
“So if you’re craving your vape, take it as an opportunity to enjoy some time at a local bar or restaurant and get an all important rest from the direct sun. If in doubt, use Gov.uk to seek advice whenever unsure and stay up to date with laws and regulations in every country. Many EU countries allow vaping in public spaces, so consider these countries when planning your summer get away.”