Beaches free of sunbeds: list of 238 objects

Another 40 have been added to the list of “pristine beaches”, which now totals 238.

The expansion of this list was made following a review of requests from citizens, municipalities, and the Organization for the Environment and Climate Change (O.FY.PE.KA), which spoke about both exclusion and addition of objects to the approved list. Some corrections were also made to ensure that existing rights (such as those of neighbouring businesses) were not violated.

So what are “pristine beaches”? This is an area where there are no umbrellas, sun loungers, music or soft drinks. Let us recall that the concept was first legalized by regulation 5092/2024 (“Conditions for the use of state property in coastal areas”). In this regard, strict restrictions were introduced on the use of the embankment and beach. In addition, any business activity in order to protect the environment is prohibited here..

Furthermore, thanks to an amendment to the joint ministerial decision signed by the Minister of National Economy and Finance, Mr. Kostis Hatzidakis, and Mr. Thodoros Skylakakis, Minister of Environment and Energy, the installation of umbrellas, sun loungers, etc. will be prohibited on the “pristine beaches” (“Απάτητες Παραλίες”) located throughout the country (within the Natura 2000 network).

One of the criteria for “Απάτητες Παραλίες” is the presence of rare endemic species of flora and fauna in the area. Locations are defined as “key biodiversity areas containing important ecosystems in need of protection, conservation or restoration.”

On the “pristine beaches” the granting of the right to use the sea coast is prohibited, as well as any other actions that may compromise their morphology and integrity in terms of ecological functions. In addition, the following is prohibited:

• availability of vehicles,
• organizing events with more than ten people,
• loud music or other sounds played using an electrical playback device/tape recorder,
• placement of mobile elements such as tables with chairs, umbrellas, sun loungers, etc.
• carrying out activities that provide services to bathers or recreation for the population,
• carrying out activities for the rental of marine recreational vehicles,
• operation of a self-propelled or trailed food stall.

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