Tenerife authorities have prohibited smoking across 13 of the island’s popular beaches and bathing areas, introducing fines of up to €750 for violators. This environmental and public health measure, active in the municipalities of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and El Rosario, targets both second-hand smoke exposure and the persistent issue of cigarette butt litter.
According to the anti-smoking advocacy group Nofumadores.org, the smoke-free zones are split between ten locations in Santa Cruz and three in El Rosario. Santa Cruz initiated its restrictions under its Waste Management Ordinance, applying the rules not just to the sand, but also to adjacent boardwalks, sun decks, and access ramps.
Smoke-Free Beaches and Fines by Municipality
The restrictions vary slightly by municipality, but both regions enforce financial penalties for non-compliance on their shores.
| Municipality | Prohibited Beaches & Bathing Zones | Fines for Violations |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Cruz de Tenerife |
| Up to €750 |
| El Rosario |
| €100 to €750 |
Strict Rules at Las Teresitas and Anaga
At Las Teresitas, one of Santa Cruz’s most heavily visited beaches, the smoking ban is absolute. It covers the entire stretch of sand, the pedestrian promenade, and the beachside kiosks. Visitors who wish to smoke must leave the beach area entirely, with nearby parking lots serving as the closest permitted areas.
The ban also extends to the remote, ecologically sensitive beaches of the Anaga rural region, including Almáciga and Benijo. These areas are highly valued for their natural landscapes, making the prevention of toxic cigarette litter a priority for local conservationists.
Vaping Rules and Environmental Goals
While the primary legislation targets traditional tobacco, electronic cigarettes and other vaping devices are also subject to restrictions. Because local bylaws govern these rules, beachgoers should check local signage or consult beach patrol personnel to avoid penalties.
Local authorities emphasize that the bans are designed to protect children and individuals with respiratory issues from second-hand smoke. Additionally, the policy aims to stop the accumulation of cigarette butts, which do not biodegrade quickly and release harmful chemicals into the marine ecosystem.
