Else Beekman
From the Costa Brava to Andalucia, Spain’s coastline has long been a summer haven for millions of international tourists—Brits chief among them. But in recent weeks, headlines in the UK have painted a very different picture, warning of “dangerous jellyfish” swarming Spanish beaches.
The alarmist tone, splashed across front pages and social media feeds, has sparked concern among holidaymakers, some of whom have already booked their trips for the upcoming season.
“We read the jellyfish warnings but went anyway. The water was perfect and we didn’t see a single one,” said Amanda (46) from Manchester, who visited the Costa Blanca last year in early July.
Sensationalism vs statistics: over 7,000 stings reported
While some of the reporting may seem exaggerated, according to eltiempo.es, the figures are not entirely without basis. In 2024, more than 7,000 people in Spain sought medical assistance following jellyfish stings, a 40% rise compared to the previous year.
Most incidents have been minor and isolated. However, the appearance of the Portuguese man o’ war, a species with a painful sting, forced temporary beach closures in areas such as Tarragona. Though these public health measures were deemed necessary, they were quickly amplified by some international outlets.
Warming seas and overfishing: a perfect storm
Behind the spike in sightings lies a complex environmental backdrop. Scientists at Barcelona’s Institute of Marine Sciences point to rising sea temperatures, linked to climate change, as a key driver of jellyfish blooms. Warmer waters create ideal breeding conditions, allowing populations to grow and linger near the coast.
Overfishing has also played a role by reducing numbers of natural predators, such as loggerhead turtles and ocean sunfish. Coastal urbanisation further disrupts marine ecosystems, undermining natural controls that once kept jellyfish numbers in check.
Tourism under scrutiny due to alarm on jellyfish in Spain
For a country heavily reliant on tourism, especially in regions like the Valencian Community, Balearic Islands and Murcia, media panic can have real economic consequences. Cancelled bookings, travel changes or reduced footfall are plausible outcomes when negative coverage, regardless of accuracy, spreads quickly.
Local tourism officials have criticised some British reports for misrepresenting a seasonal and localised issue as a broader, ongoing threat.
Local action: informed, prepared, and proactive
Spanish authorities have not stood idle. Many coastal municipalities have introduced dynamic signage, enforced temporary swimming bans when necessary, and bolstered lifeguard presence to respond swiftly to any incidents.
Public awareness campaigns on jellyfish in Spain are also underway to inform both locals and tourists with accurate, science-based information. Some regions are even considering floating barriers, already used in Australia, to keep jellyfish away from shorelines at busy beaches.
Travellers are also encouraged to check real-time jellyfish alerts using tools like MedusApp or InfoMedusa, which provide sightings and safety guidance per beach.
Not all jellyfish pose a threat
Crucially, not all jellyfish spotted along Spanish shores are dangerous. Many species cause little more than mild discomfort. Most stings can be avoided by following basic precautions—heeding warning flags and steering clear of waters where recent sightings have occurred.
The majority of incidents are manageable and do not justify the level of alarm seen in some British media.
What to do if stung by a jellyfish
- Leave the water immediately and avoid rubbing the area
- Rinse the affected area with salt water, never fresh water
- Use tweezers or gloves to remove any visible tentacles
- Apply vinegar to neutralise the sting (unless stung by a Portuguese man o’ war—in that case, use hot water)
- If pain or swelling persists, seek medical assistance
Most stings are mild, but prompt treatment ensures a faster recovery and reduces the chance of complications.
Jellyfish in Spain and climate
Scientists continue to study the phenomenon, as jellyfish act as indicators of marine change. Understanding their life cycles, migrations, and bloom patterns is essential for predicting future developments. Until then, perspective is key. Spanish beaches remain safe, well-monitored, and fully equipped to welcome millions of visitors each year. The occasional presence of jellyfish, while worth monitoring, should not deter travellers from enjoying Spain’s renowned coastal offerings.
Also read: Carefree swimming without jellyfish in Spain? Do the check