Else Beekman
Following months of water restrictions due to drought, beachgoers along the Costa del Sol can look forward to the return of full beach services this summer. From 15 June, beach showers will be reactivated across Málaga city and several other coastal municipalities, coinciding with the start of the high tourist season.
The easing of restrictions comes after significant rainfall in April boosted water reserves in the Guadalhorce-Limonero system, which supplies Málaga and surrounding areas. Reservoir levels have risen to nearly 62% capacity, up from just 170 hectometres cubed a year ago. This development prompted the Junta de Andalucía to lift measures imposed since November 2023.
As a result, activities such as filling private pools, watering gardens, cleaning streets, and washing cars outside authorised facilities are once again permitted. The reactivation of beach showers is part of this broader return to normality.
Municipalities restoring beach showers
Málaga city will resume shower services on all its urban beaches from mid-June. The city has also renewed its Blue Flag status for seven beaches: Pedregalejo, Caleta, El Palo, El Dedo, Malagueta, Misericordia, and San Andrés. These beaches will offer full amenities, including accessible showers, lifeguard services, and adapted bathing areas for people with reduced mobility.
Other municipalities along the Costa del Sol, including Mijas, Benalmádena, Torremolinos, Vélez-Málaga, and Fuengirola, have also announced the reactivation of beach showers and foot washes in time for the summer season.
Water usage limits adjusted
The Commission for Drought Management in the Mediterranean Basins has adjusted water usage limits in the province. In the Costa del Sol Occidental area, authorities have increased the maximum daily water consumption per person to 225 litres. Meanwhile, in Málaga city and the Axarquía region, the limit is now 200 litres per person per day. These changes reflect the improved water availability and aim to balance resource conservation with the needs of residents and tourists.
Sources: CadenaSer, La Opinion de Málaga