Greeks Struggle to Save Beaches from Sun Loungers

Demonstrators Push to Halt Unauthorized Sunbeds and Demand Open Beach Access

Amidst the sweltering August heat, the Archilochos cultural center on Paros, typically serene, buzzes with activity. Yet, rather than drawing crowds to its discussions, the island’s attention turns to bars and beaches, attracting an elite crowd.

Amid Greece’s peak summer exodus, the Archilochos resonated with debates about beaches monopolized by expensive sunbeds and profit-driven entrepreneurs.

Christos Georgousis, a founding member of the Save Paros Beaches movement, emphasizes their fight against the unlawful takeover of public shores.

At 78, Georgousis, a former headmaster and revered figure, leads the battle to maintain beach access for all.

The movement’s primary goal is reclaiming beaches from private rental businesses, charging exorbitant prices for sun loungers, seen as unconstitutional in a country where protecting the environment is a legal duty.

The campaign’s central argument revolves around restricted space due to commercial equipment, impacting locals’ access to the beach.

Nicholas Stephanou, a long-term resident, shares frustration over the shrinking public space due to rented sunbeds and umbrellas.

Driven by this movement, concerns about the nation’s direction as a prime tourist destination have sparked protests in other regions, showcasing Greece’s struggles with over-tourism and unchecked development.

Social media has amplified the “beach towel movement,” expanding from Paros to other areas, resonating with Greeks’ deep connection to the sea and exposing lawlessness in tourism development.

The government has responded to this uproar with inspections and arrests for violations, planning legislative reforms for fairer coastal business allocations.

Despite governmental action, there’s skepticism due to past instances of removed sun loungers reappearing once inspectors leave.

Georgousis underlines their peaceful resistance and vows to continue fighting to safeguard public beaches, indicating ongoing protests at the Archilochos cultural center.