In Greece, no sunbeds or umbrellas are allowed on 251 protected beaches.

While in Italy, politicians remain kneeling before the excessive power of beach concessionaires who have seized practically every beach, in Greece they are tightening their grip on this sector's speculation. And the measures put in place are very strict and effective.

First of all there is a list of 251 beaches, Located in Natura 2000 areas, the ecological network defined by the European Union for areas of high biodiversity interest: sunbeds, umbrellas, tourist infrastructure, bars and restaurants are prohibited here.

• Crete: includes some of the most famous destinations such as the Lagoon of Balos, Elafonisi (note for the pink sand), Falassarna and the area of Gramvousa.
• Small Cyclades: beaches on islands such as Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonisia (including Pori and Italida Beach) and the uninhabited island of Keros.
• Ionian Islands: Among the areas involved are lefkada (with Kastro beach) and Corfu (with Chalikounas Beach).
• Other Islands: beaches are included Samos, Limnos, folegandros, Sikinos, Skopelos (like Paralia Velanio) and the islet of Kira near Alonissos.
• Mainland Greece: The restrictions also affect areas near Athens (such as Kalamaki) and natural areas such as the National Park of Messolonghi Lagoon

As for all other beaches, the new rules impose a very important limit: at least 70 percent of the surface area (which rises to 85 percent in protected areas) must remain free of sunbeds and umbrellas and available free of charge to bathers.

Finally Beach concession licenses are not, as in Italy, granted for life, but are awarded through electronic auctions, with concessionaires required to clean and maintain the area.

The measures were presented in Greece as measures to contain and manage overtourism, but in reality they primarily serve to protect the most vulnerable segments of the population, those who cannot afford the high prices of beach umbrellas, and also to contain pressure from the beach concession holders' lobby.

Read also:

• How to save on sunbeds, deckchairs and umbrellas
• Beach concessions: a gift to the seaside lobby