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The beaches of the Costa Blanca are gradually becoming smoke-free. Calpe has almost completely banned smoking on the main beaches of Arenal-Bol, La Fossa and Cantal Roig - smoking is only permitted in two small zones at Plaza Mediterraneo and Plaza Colón. Those who do not comply risk fines of up to 2,000 euros.
But Calpe is not the only town that is taking action. Smoking is also prohibited in many other towns along the coast.
The smoking ban on the Costa Blanca applies here:
▶ Calpe - Smoking ban with two small smoking areas
▶ Denia - Smoke-free since 2023
▶ Javea - Strict smoking ban on several beaches
▶ Benissa - No smoking areas on the coast
▶ Altea - Smoke-free on the main beaches since 2024
▶ Benidorm - Bans in planning, some already implemented
▶ Finestrat - Pioneer since 2020 with smoking ban on all beaches
▶ Villajoyosa - Majority of beaches smoke-free
While many coastal cities are introducing stricter rules, Alicante is taking the opposite approach and has relaxed existing smoking bans in 2024. Environmental organisations are calling for a uniform regulation for the whole of Spain.
Why a smoking ban makes sense
A single cigarette butt can pollute up to 500 litres of water. Filters are made of plastic, release microplastics and endanger marine animals that mistake them for food. Despite the tobacco industry's new „biodegradable“ filters, environmental experts speak of pure greenwashing.
What does this mean for beach visitors?
If you want to enjoy sunbathing on the beach on the Costa Blanca, you should find out about the rules in advance. Smoking on the beach can be expensive, especially in places like Benidorm, Calpe or Denia.
The era of unrestricted freedom from smoking is coming to an end - bit by bit, beach by beach.
