For some, hiring a sun-lounger and umbrella is all part of their perfect day at the beach. However, those heading on holiday to Greece and its islands this year may have to make other plans. New rules mean 251 beaches across the country now don’t offer sun-loungers and umbrellas for hire. Other new rules on these beaches include no jet skis to rent, no wooden structures, a ban on events with more than 10 people and no cars driving on the sand. This is all part of the Natura 2000 programme, which aims to protect beach animals and their habitats, including monk seals and loggerhead turtles. However, some people are worried that the new rules could affect local tourism businesses. What do you think? Should sun-loungers be banned from beaches?
Yes – they’re bad for the environment
According to The Wildlife Trusts, beaches are a great place to see wildlife in its natural habitat. However, having rows of sun-loungers and people trampling over beaches to get to them could damage that. The Greek Ministry of the Environment and Energy says the new rules will protect specific beaches which are noted for wildlife. Besides, beaches should be free for everyone to enjoy, not just those who can afford to hire a sun-lounger. In 2023 a group called Save Paros Beaches started a campaign against private companies covering the coast of Paros island with expensive sun-loungers. They said the loungers left no room for locals. After all, people can sit on towels and use their own umbrellas if they need them.
No – people need places to sit at the beach
Banning sun-loungers could be bad for tourists who want to spend a day by the sea. Elderly people and those with disabilities might struggle to sit or lie on the sand for long periods. A 2025 study found that wheelchair users in Greece already face “significant barriers” to spending time on the beach. Loungers often come with umbrellas, which provide protection from the Sun. According to the British Skin Foundation, we should all be in the shade between 11am and 3pm. The ban could also affect local people who rent out sun-loungers and umbrellas to make money. In 2024, when Greece started restrictions, businesses that rented out too many sun-loungers had to pay almost £1 million in fines.