"They think the beach belongs to them": Two tourists face fines of up to 3,000 euros

Two tourists in Spain were cited by local police for entering Playa de San Antonio in the coastal town of Cullera before 8 a.m. According to the Spanish newspaper " El Periódico ," they intended to set up their parasols in the front row. Both now face hefty fines.

The Cullera City Council has increased surveillance on its beaches this summer to ensure compliance with the municipal coastal ordinance. Access to San Antonio Beach is prohibited between 5 and 8 a.m. due to cleaning and maintenance work.

With this measure, the city also aims to curb certain habits, such as reserving beach spots with umbrellas or chairs, in order to avoid conflicts between tourists and residents.

Anyone who violates the regulations faces fines of up to 3,000 euros. Removing objects can result in fines of up to 750 euros.

Even in the face of the harsh penalties, according to "El Periódico," bathers still try to circumvent the regulations. "For over 30 years, we've been getting up early to get the best spot. Anyone who wants a cool spot in the front row by the sea does that. This regulation violates our rights," explained one bather.

A resident of Cullera sees things differently and criticizes the behavior of those visitors who set up parasols early in the morning only to then go somewhere else. "They think the beach belongs to them," he said.