Deceptive beach signs deter foreigners on Spanish shores

Fake warning signs have emerged on the beaches of the Spanish island of Mallorca, targeting English-speaking tourists, Euronews has reported. 

Some of these signs warn about "dangerous jellyfish," "falling rocks," or polluted seawater. Others claim that the beach is closed, accompanied by a "no swimming" sign, or indicate that the road to the beach takes several hours despite its close proximity.

However, small text in Catalan below these warnings reveals to locals that these alerts are not accurate. They explain that the "problem is not falling rocks but excessive tourism" or that the beach is open, but only for locals.

Unofficial warning signs have appeared on the beaches of Cala Morlanda, Es Calo, Cala Petit, Porto Cristo, Cala Murta, Cala Magraner, and Cala Bota.

The fake signs have been placed by the anti-capitalist group Caterva, based in the town of Manacor. Its members criticize the overcrowded beaches of the island and draw attention to the issue of excessive tourism in Mallorca.

In a message on the social network X, formerly known as Twitter, the group stated that their campaign is "charged with humor."

In a statement sent to the local press, Caterva points the finger at "hoteliers and Rafael Nadal," blaming them as much as the government of the Balearic Islands. The Spanish tennis player was criticized for his past ownership of a restaurant and tourist business on the island, which "contributed" to the influx of foreigners.

Despite claims that tourism provides jobs and income to local residents, the group asserts that only the wealthy see the economic benefits.

During COVID-19, discussions about excessive tourism quieted down as the number of visitors decreased. However, as tourism started to recover to pre-pandemic levels and beyond, the Balearic Islands are once again experiencing negative consequences.

Caterva offered to share their signs for free with anyone who wants to use them.

In 2022, more than 16 million people visited the Balearic Islands of Spain. Just on Mallorca alone, over a million tourists visited in August of last year – more than the island's entire population. According to local statistical institutions, the number of vacationers this year could reach an even higher peak.

Resort overcrowding is particularly severe during the summer season, with battles over sun loungers and long queues forming on the most popular beaches.

Drunk parties and rowdy tourists have been a specific issue for the islands for several years. Local councils and the government of the Balearic Islands have been trying to control the situation by tightening rules and regulations, but with limited success.

Among these rules are bans on smoking on 28 island beaches, restrictions on the number of alcoholic beverages that can be purchased under the "all-inclusive" system, dress codes for restaurants and resorts, as well as fines for missing a reserved dinner.