Back to newsGreece has announced plans to place 251 beaches under stricter environmental protection, including several on Crete. The initiative aims to limit commercial activity and tourist density at designated coastal sites to preserve fragile ecosystems and water quality. Affected beaches may see restrictions on sunbed rentals, beach bars, and access during peak hours or nesting seasons. Visitors planning beach days on Crete should check in advance whether their destination beach has new access rules in place, particularly during summer 2026. Some protected beaches may require timed entry or have reduced facilities compared to previous years. The measure is part of a broader Greek government effort to balance tourism growth with long-term coastal conservation across the country's most visited islands.
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Greece Restricts Tourism at 251 Beaches to Protect Ecosystems
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