Mallorca, Spain – A radical anti-tourism movement in Spain is gearing up to escalate its protests against mass tourism by occupying popular beaches in Mallorca this summer. The activist group, Menys Turisme Més Vida, has announced plans to disrupt tourist activity in response to what they describe as the “destructive effects” of overtourism on local communities.
The group gained international attention last year after staging protests in major tourist areas, demanding stricter regulations on short-term rentals, limiting cruise ship arrivals, and increasing taxes on visitors. This year, their campaign appears even more aggressive as they vow to physically take over beaches and public spaces to discourage foreign tourists from visiting.
One of the primary grievances of Menys Turisme Més Vida is the skyrocketing cost of living attributed to excessive tourism. Residents argue that the influx of short-term rental properties, particularly through platforms like Airbnb, has driven housing prices to unaffordable levels. Many locals have been forced to move away from city centers, as landlords prioritize tourists who are willing to pay higher rates.
Additionally, environmental concerns are at the forefront of the movement’s agenda. Activists claim that the unchecked growth of tourism has put immense pressure on local resources, leading to severe water shortages, pollution, and damage to natural landscapes. “We are not against tourists, but against the unsustainable model that prioritizes profits over people and the environment,” said a spokesperson for the group.
Local businesses that rely on tourism, however, argue that these protests could backfire. “Tourism is the backbone of our economy. Without it, thousands of jobs would disappear,” said Juan López, a restaurant owner in Palma. Many business owners worry that negative publicity and disruptive protests could drive tourists away to other Mediterranean destinations, causing financial harm to the island’s hospitality sector.
Despite these concerns, the movement has gained significant support among locals, particularly among younger generations who struggle with housing affordability and job stability. The regional government has acknowledged these growing frustrations and has introduced measures to regulate tourism, such as limiting hotel expansions and capping the number of daily visitors to certain hotspots.
As summer approaches, tensions between protesters, tourists, and business owners are expected to rise. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, with the possibility of increased law enforcement presence at key locations. While the government urges peaceful demonstrations, past protests have resulted in clashes between activists and police.
The outcome of this year’s anti-tourism campaign could have lasting implications for Spain’s approach to managing its tourism industry. Whether stricter regulations will be implemented or if protests will successfully deter visitors remains to be seen. For now, Mallorca is preparing for yet another heated summer season.