198 Natura 2000 Beaches in Greece Shielded from Commercialization

The Greek government has designated 198 remote and ecologically significant beaches across the country as “inaccessible,” prohibiting the installation of sunbeds and umbrellas. This measure aims to safeguard these pristine coastal areas, which are part of the Natura 2000 network, from exploitation and promote their conservation. The complete list, in Greek, is available in PDF format here.

According to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), granting the right to use the seashore and beach areas or any action that may jeopardize their morphology and ecological functions is prohibited. Specifically, the following activities are restricted:

• The presence of motor vehicles.
• Organizing events involving more than 10 individuals.
• Playing music or producing other sounds using electrical reproduction or amplification devices for carrying out activities.
• Placing mobile elements such as table seats, umbrellas, sun loungers, etc.
• Conducting activities for the benefit of bathers or public recreation, including the hire of marine leisure facilities.
• Operating mobile or towed refreshment stands.

The Joint Ministerial Decision, signed by the Ministers of National Economy and Finance, Mr. Kostis Hatzidakis, and Environment and Energy, Mr. Thodoris Skylakakis, was established under Law 5092/2024, which outlines the conditions for the utilization of public property in coastal regions.

The central objective of the regulations, which we adopted with Law 5092/2024, is the combination of environmental protection with rational development. After all, the environment is a valuable component of the Greek tourism product. Our aim is to be effective, which is why we are now implementing the general framework of protection for ‘remote beaches’, which will remain in force until the Special Environmental Studies commissioned for Natura 2000 sites are completed. We are putting public property in order, with a strict framework of rules, penalties, and obligations for concessionaires, a strengthened system of controls, transparency, and determination to implement the law.

Minister of National Economy and Finance, Kostis Hatzidakis

The selection of these “inaccessible beaches” was based on recommendations from the Agency for the Natural Environment and Climate Change (O.F.E.P.E.C.A.), considering factors such as the presence of protected habitats, rare endemic species, ecological significance for protected species, designation as Key Biodiversity Areas, and the need for protection, conservation, or restoration of important ecosystems.