Barcelona controls access to beaches to avoid crowds

Barcelona has begun controlling access to its beaches to prevent crowds from gathering and to reduce the risk of coronavirus contagion.

Over 30 workers are tasked with informing people and controlling access to the beaches every day from 10 am to 7 pm during the month of May, when warmer temperatures are likely to attract a greater number of people to the coast. 

When the high season starts at the end of the month, staff will be increased to 46 officers and restricted access will be extended until 8 pm.

"Informers will remind people of the safety measures and inform them when they are not adhering to safety distances," explained the Director of Barcelona Beaches, Patrícia Giménez. 

The occupancy levels of the beaches can be checked on the Barcelona city council official website, which also provides information on the weather, swimming recommendations, and the temperature of the water.

There are four different indicators reflecting the occupancy of beaches: the color green means they have not surpassed 40% capacity; yellow means they are somewhere between 40 and 60%; when occupancy lies between 60 and 80%, it will turn orange and authorities advise people to go to other beaches; the color red is for beaches at over 80% capacity. 

From March 27, when the swim season officially began, the website has received nearly 12,000 visits.

There are ten beaches in Barcelona available to those who want to take a dip: Banys del Fòrum, Llevant, Nova Mar, Bella, Mar Bella, Bogatell, Nova Icària, Somorrostro, Barceloneta, Sant Miquel, Sant Sebastià.