Sardinia Beach Bars Sun Umbrellas for Most Visitors After Fire Safety Fears

Authorities at Punta Molentis, a popular beach on Sardinia’s southern coast, have imposed an unusual summer rule banning umbrellas for everyone aged 10 to 65. Under the new regulation, only families with children up to age 10 or people 65 and older may bring one umbrella. Everyone else is barred from setting up umbrellas, gazebos, tents, or any other shade structures.

The restrictions, which took effect on June 5 and will remain in place until the end of October, also include an entry fee of 10 euros, about $11.50. Visitors with disabilities and their companions are exempt from paying. Local officials say the measures are meant to improve safety and prevent blocked evacuation routes in an emergency.

The decision follows last year’s fire, when the beach’s dense rows of umbrellas reportedly obstructed land evacuation and rescue teams had to move dozens of bathers by boat. A city spokesman in Villasimius told CNN that the rules were necessary because the previous incident made it impossible to carry people out over land. He said the problem was worsened by the ban on private paid beach clubs in the area, which led people to place umbrellas very close together, blocking access and creating additional hazards.

The move has sparked anger and ridicule online. Commenters mocked the rule and complained that a day at the beach could end with sunburn and a hospital visit. The controversy comes amid Italy’s broader reputation for strict beach regulation, including expensive private beach clubs, seasonal access limits in some places, and fines of up to $3,500 for taking sand from Sardinian beaches.