San Sebastián Plans Smoke-Free, Quieter Beaches by 2026

San Sebastián, Spain's top coastal destination, is implementing new beach regulations aimed at creating cleaner, quieter, and more environmentally friendly beaches by summer 2026. The city council plans to ban smoking on all municipal beaches to reduce cigarette butt pollution, which accounts for 30 to 50 percent of beach waste and contaminates large amounts of seawater. To ensure a peaceful atmosphere, the use of loudspeakers and music players will be regulated or potentially banned, addressing frequent noise complaints. For the first time, dogs will be allowed on beaches during summer evenings from 9 pm to midnight, aligning with local animal protection laws and beach cleaning schedules. These changes respond to public demand and are supported by Spanish environmental laws, with a public consultation process underway to finalize the ordinance. The city aims to balance environmental preservation with enhanced visitor experience and community well-being.