Spain has long been a favorite holiday destination for British tourists, attracting thousands of beach-loving sunseekers each year.
However, planning a UK holiday that plans a beach break in Spain this year has been warned not to break important rules that could result in a fine of up to £1,679. Smoking in Spain has faced severe crackdowns in recent years, and the law now prohibits lighting in all indoor public spaces. The rules regarding smoking outdoors, such as the beach and outdoor terraces, are a little more relaxed, but there are some restrictions that tourists need to be aware of.
Smoking is banned on many beaches in Spain as part of an effort to improve people's health and create clean, unsolved spaces for beach fans without cigarette butts.
According to Euroweekly, a total of 28 beaches in the Balearic Islands are currently smokeless zones, with Playa de Talamanca among the smoke-free beaches of Playa de Santa Eulalia del Rio and Ibiza, and smoking in Menorca is prohibited in Vini Saffler and Plato Jagran. In Mallorca, non-smoking beaches include Santo Joan, Saplasita, Santa Ponsa, Cala Santia, Cala Santo Vicensia and Cala Demolo.
Andalusia also bans smoking on 53 beaches, 61 beaches ban smoking on the Canary Islands, 25% of beaches in Costa Blanca currently ban smoking, and the beaches at Costa del Sol 18 are declared smokeless.
Barcelona was the first major city in Spain to ban smoking on beaches, but more than 100 Spanish beaches have imposed a ban.
However, recent rules changes have banned vaping on 10 beaches in Barcelona and 28 beaches in the Balearic Islands. This includes Malaca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera. The Spanish government announced last October that it would ban single-use steam as part of its new “anti-tobacco program.”
Wickdopp, a rechargeable steam expert, warns that people caught vaping on Spanish beaches are fined up to 2,000 euros (about £1,680).
Mike Byers, director of the rechargeable Vapes Shop Wickdup, warns:
“Smoking is generally permitted on private air terraces in bars and restaurants, provided that the area is not surrounded or covered by two or more walls and roofs.
“So, if you are craving your steam, enjoy it for a while at your local bar or restaurant and take it as an opportunity to take all important rest directly from the sun. If in doubt, use gov.uk to seek advice whenever you are unsure and keep up to date with the laws and regulations of all countries. Many EU countries allow vaping in public spaces, so consider these countries whenever you run out of summer.”
