Holidaymakers in Greece are now prohibited from using sun loungers, beach umbrellas, and speakers on 251 beaches as part of a concerted effort to reduce overtourism. The initiative, which also aims to curb excessive development along coastlines, marks a significant expansion from the original 198 beaches designated in 2024.
New Restrictions on Greek Beaches
Under the updated regulations, hotels are no longer allowed to cordon off private areas on beaches, reopening them to the public. Additionally, developments such as concrete piers, sea walls, and paved paths are banned to maintain the natural state of the coastline. As of April 2026, these 251 areas are designated as Natura 2000 sites, prohibiting sun loungers, organised activities, beach bars, speakers, and umbrellas.
Ministry's Stance
The Greek Environment Ministry stated that the new rule “seeks to effectively protect beaches that have particular aesthetic, geomorphological or ecological value, as well as to preserve the types of habitats and the species of flora and fauna found on these beaches.” The ministry added that the number of shorelines within the Natura 2000 network is increasing, and any actions that endanger their morphology or ecological functions are now forbidden.
Affected Beaches
Beaches on the list include popular destinations such as Balos, Elafonisi, Falassarna, and Gramvousa, as well as coastal zones in Gavdos, Kissamos, and Kantanos-Selinos. Other affected areas span Folegandros, Sikinos, Syros (11 sites), Naxos (7 sites), Kimolos (6 sites), Tinos, and the Small Cyclades (Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonisia, Keros). Also included are Karpathos (13 sites), Tilos (9 sites), Astypalaia, Kalymnos (6 sites), Lefkada, Zakynthos (Laganas Bay/Marathonisi), Kythira (6 sites), Agios Efstratios, Samothrace, Lesvos, Limnos, Ikaria, Eastern Mani (17 sites), Zacharo, Pylos-Nestor, Evia, Acheloos Delta, Messolonghi Lagoon, and Schinias in Attica.
Enforcement Rules
To preserve these areas as “untrodden,” the Greek Ministry of Environment enforces the following rules:
- No Concessions: Rentals of sunbeds or umbrellas are prohibited.
- No Commercial Hubs: Canteens, beach bars, and organised water sports are not allowed.
- No Motorized Access: Vehicles are generally barred from sand and dunes.
- Event Restrictions: Organised events involving more than 10 people are forbidden.
- Acoustic Protection: Amplified music or loudspeakers are banned.
These measures aim to protect the ecological and aesthetic value of Greece's most treasured coastal landscapes.
