More restrictions lifted on Barcelona beaches, while bathing allowed in Phase 2 areas

Despite concerns during the first days of lockdown loosening, the road to granting full access to Barcelona beaches continues moving forward.

On Monday, the city council announced that individual exercise and walks will also be allowed from 8 to 11 pm, the slot previously set aside for members of sports clubs only.  

The aim of the local authorities is to "take pressure off" the morning shift, up until 10 am, which has seen the majority of beach-goers.

Yet, some prohibitions remain in place, such as sunbathing – although Catalan News has witnessed that authorities are not removing those who lie on the sand – and practicing any sport in a group.

Barceloneta and Bogatell beaches are the busiest ones, according to the city council, with peaks of "16%" of visitors compared to a normal beach day before the health crisis.

The extended timetable came as the Catalan capital entered de-escalation lockdown Phase 1, meaning that bar terraces and beach bars are allowed to reopen.

Bathing allowed in Phase 2

Elsewhere, in the health regions moving to Phase 2 on Monday, bathing in the sea is allowed, although local authorities can impose their own extra limitations.

In Tarragona, bathing is allowed from Monday and also water sports, but only individually. Before now only swimming for exercise, rather than recreational bathing was permitted.

The city council is also developing an app to measure the numbers using its beaches.