GOB makes allegations: Overpriced premium sunbeds and distancing violations in Cala Major

Protest on the Beach: Why the loungers in Cala Major are causing trouble now

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In the early morning, while the seagulls circle over the Passeig Marítim and delivery vans supply the cafés, the colorful row of beach loungers in Cala Major catches the eye. Beautiful to look at, but not all beachgoers are in a good mood: The environmental organization GOB has filed an official complaint. Reason: allegedly inflated prices and a number of violations of the existing permits.

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According to the organization, the standard package — two loungers plus an umbrella — is officially priced at about €18 per day. On site, however, a premium variant is advertised, which according to GOB could cost up to €70. Those asking for a spot at 9 a.m. often get a shrug and the explanation: reserved, better place, shade included, and the bill is suddenly different.

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What exactly is being criticized

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The GOB cites around one hundred of these high-priced sets in Cala Major. It also notes that mobile kiosks and stalls do not comply with the mandated minimum distance of 100 meters. These distances are not merely formalities: They are intended to ensure accessibility to the beach and to protect the coastal zone from overuse.

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In its complaint, the organization urges the responsible coastal authority to assess the situation and, if necessary, to act decisively — up to revoking licenses or imposing fines. A GOB spokesperson said in a brief phone call that it cannot be that rules exist on paper and everyone along the promenade does whatever they want. The authorities have not publicly commented yet.

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Local reactions

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A local resident who walks the beach with his dog every other morning said that it used to be more relaxed. Now it feels like a marketplace — and not everyone wants to pay €70 for two loungers. Tourists surprised by the price report confusion and feeling of being ripped off.

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At the same time, many operators are under pressure: the season, staff, and operating costs are rising, and this is reflected in the offerings. Whether this crosses legal boundaries is now under review. A quick look at the administrative procedure shows: if violations are found, conditions can be tightened or licenses withdrawn — with consequences for businesses and guests alike.

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The mood at Cala Major remains ambivalent: sunshine, sea air, and loud conversations at the kiosk on the one hand, complaints and applications to authorities on the other. For this summer, the takeaway is: keep an eye out, compare prices, and calmly ask for the official tariff. Who knows, maybe some enforcement will bring a bit of order back to the beach promenade.

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