The local government of Spain’s Balearic Islands has implemented strict new alcohol bans in an effort to curb excessive tourism and irresponsible visitor behavior. Holidaymakers in popular resorts in Mallorca and Ibiza are now prohibited from purchasing alcohol in shops between the hours of 9.30pm and 8am. Additionally, party boats are no longer allowed to operate within one nautical mile of certain areas. Drinking in the streets is also banned in tourist hotspots, with fines ranging from €500 to €1,500 for violations, and increasing to €3,000 for particularly disruptive behavior. The new regulations will be in effect until 2027 and are accompanied by a €16 million funding package for security, inspections, and advertising promoting responsible tourism.
The measures are part of a broader initiative to shift towards more responsible tourism in the Balearic Islands, replacing the “sun, sex, and sangria” reputation with a focus on respectful and sustainable visitor behavior. While the rules have been strengthened, the wording of the 2020 decree has been adjusted to emphasize the importance of responsible tourism in the region, recognizing that tourism contributes significantly to the community’s GDP. The legislation was prompted by reports of disruptive behavior by tourists, particularly young visitors, leading to concerns within the local community, hospitality sector, and government agencies. Irresponsible behavior, often linked to excessive alcohol consumption, has resulted in serious injuries and deaths, prompting the need for enhanced regulations to protect residents and visitors alike.
The ban on overnight alcohol sales in select areas of Mallorca and Ibiza applies specifically to shops, allowing alcohol to still be purchased in bars, restaurants, and clubs. However, drinking in the streets in tourist hotspots is now prohibited, with exceptions for licensed terraces and designated areas. Fines for violating the alcohol bans range from €500 to €1,500, with steeper penalties for repeat offenders or disruptive behavior. The new legislation represents a proactive approach to addressing the negative impacts of excessive drinking and unruly behavior by tourists, aiming to create a more enjoyable and safe environment for all.
In addition to the alcohol bans, the Balearic government has allocated funding for increased security measures, inspections, and promotional campaigns to encourage responsible tourism practices. By addressing the root causes of irresponsible behavior among tourists, authorities hope to improve the overall visitor experience and protect the local community from the negative consequences of excessive tourism. The shift from “excess tourism” to “responsible tourism” signifies a commitment to fostering a more sustainable and respectful relationship between visitors and residents in the Balearic Islands. With a focus on education, enforcement, and collaboration, the government aims to create a harmonious environment where both tourists and locals can coexist peacefully and enjoy the beauty of the region.
The 2020 decree already restricted certain activities, such as happy hours, pub crawls, and promotional deals on alcohol, in an effort to control excessive drinking and deter disruptive behavior among tourists. The latest regulations build upon these existing measures and provide additional tools for law enforcement to address alcohol-related issues effectively. By targeting specific areas and times where alcohol consumption has been a problem, the new bans aim to reduce the negative impacts on the local community and promote a more positive and sustainable tourism industry in the Balearic Islands. With a combination of legislative changes, enforcement strategies, and public awareness campaigns, authorities are working towards a more responsible and respectful tourism culture that benefits both visitors and residents in the region.
