Fewer sunbeds this summer on Mallorca’s busiest beaches

Palma council reduces loungers and parasols to ease crowding and protect shrinking coastline

Palma City Council has announced plans to reduce the number of sunbeds and parasols on several of its most popular beaches in Mallorca, following concerns from residents about a lack of space.

The decision follows complaints that the sheer volume of pay-per-use loungers and umbrellas left little room for locals and other beachgoers to simply lay down a towel. Officials say the changes are also being driven by environmental factors, with erosion and rising sea levels reducing the size of some beaches, including the six-kilometre stretch of Playa de Palma.

From 2025, the number of sunbeds at Playa de Palma will be cut from 6,000 to 4,436, while parasols will drop from 2,503 to 2,218. Further reductions are expected in 2026.

Other beaches across Palma will also see a drop in available loungers. Cala Major will see its sunbeds reduced from 300 to 250, while at Ciutat Jardí, 12 of the 300 loungers will be removed along with six parasols. At Cala Estància in Can Pastilla, just 132 sunbeds and 66 parasols will remain, down from 150 and 75 respectively.

Even on beaches not managed directly by the city council, such as Can Pere Antoni, a similar trend is being seen, with numbers reportedly being more than halved.

Although firm details have not been confirmed, there has also been talk of introducing a smaller number of more expensive, so-called ‘premium loungers’ at Playa de Palma and Cala Major. These would offer more comfort and space, but would come at a higher cost.

The move comes at a time when footage of tourists racing to claim the best beach spots has become a regular sight on social media. Authorities hope the changes will help ease tensions and improve access for all visitors.

The new measures reflect growing calls for a better balance between tourist facilities and public enjoyment of the island’s natural spaces, particularly among local residents who feel increasingly pushed out during peak season.

Photo by Lina Kivaka/Pexels