Else Beekman
What looks like a peaceful beach with fine sand and clear water may conceal a painful surprise. Hidden just beneath the surface, a small but venomous creature lies in wait—one that can ruin your holiday with a single sting.
Every summer, dozens of beachgoers across the Mediterranean, particularly in crowded spots such as Alicante, Torrevieja and Benidorm, end up in health centres after being stung by the weever fish. Many have no idea what hit them. They only feel an intense, electric-like pain that shoots from the foot upward, sometimes accompanied by dizziness, fever or even breathing difficulties in those allergic to the venom.
The hidden threat underfoot
What makes the weever fish especially dangerous is its stealth. It buries itself in the sand, exposing only its eyes and part of its dorsal fin. If stepped on, it defends itself by delivering a painful sting via venomous spines.
This small, sharp-faced fish with camouflaged skin might appear harmless, but its venom is among the most painful found in European waters. Unfortunately, it is commonly found along much of the Valencian coastline.
What to do if stung
According to regional health authority GVA Salut, anyone experiencing severe symptoms such as vomiting, fever, breathing difficulty or convulsions should go straight to A&E. Immediate medical care is vital in the case of serious allergic reactions, including anaphylactic shock.
For most cases, the key is knowing how to respond quickly. If you feel a sudden, stabbing pain in your foot after walking in shallow water, exit the sea immediately. Swelling and intense pain will follow within minutes. Avoid a common mistake: do not apply ice. Cold worsens the effects of the venom.
Instead, immerse the affected area in hot (but not scalding) water for 30 to 90 minutes. Heat helps break down the toxin. Then seek medical attention, as you may need pain relief or antibiotics if the wound becomes infected.
GVA Salut reminds visitors: “Seek medical help right away, especially if symptoms are severe or persist.”
Can it be avoided?
Yes—though there’s no foolproof method, experts recommend a few preventive measures:
- Wear water shoes or protective footwear
- Shuffle your feet when walking in the sea (this alerts the fish and avoids accidental contact)
- Stay in supervised, well-trodden beach areas
Meet the weever fish
The culprit is the weever fish (Trachinus draco), a common resident of both the Mediterranean Sea and nearby Atlantic waters. It typically measures 15 to 30 centimetres, with an elongated body and sandy colouring that blends easily into its surroundings.
Though unassuming in appearance, this fish delivers one of the most painful stings in the marine world—making awareness your best defence while enjoying Spain’s otherwise idyllic shores.
Other possible dangers along the coast
While the weever fish is a common culprit, it is not the only marine hazard to watch out for on Spanish beaches. Jellyfish, including the Portuguese man o’ war and barrel jellyfish, regularly appear along the Mediterranean coast and can cause painful stings. At times, beaches have had to close due to jellyfish swarms. Another recent arrival is the blue button (Velella velella), a small floating creature that can cause mild skin irritation in some people.
Also of note is the silver-cheeked toadfish, an invasive species containing a potent neurotoxin. Though rarely encountered while swimming, it poses a serious risk if consumed. Finally, while shark sightings are rare and mostly harmless (typically plankton-feeding species like the basking shark), they do occasionally startle swimmers.
Being informed and taking basic precautions—such as checking local warnings, wearing protective gear, and using apps that monitor sea conditions—can help you stay safe and enjoy your time by the sea with peace of mind.
Source: Información, Cazahar.com