If you’re planning a swim at Bajamar or one of La Laguna’s natural pools, there are some new rules worth knowing about.
La Laguna Council has given final approval to a new municipal ordinance introducing restrictions on smoking, camping, overnight stays and noisy music at beaches and natural swimming areas across the municipality.
Approved on 7 October, the rules cover coastal bathing areas including Bajamar, Punta del Hidalgo, Jover and La Barranquera. The council says the aim is to protect the coastline, improve public safety and make these popular spots more pleasant for everyone.
Smoking is now prohibited
All municipal beaches and natural swimming pools covered by the ordinance are designated smoke-free areas.
The rules also prohibit leaving rubbish behind and using soap, shampoo or other hygiene products in public showers and bathing areas.
It’s fairly straightforward stuff, really. The idea is to keep these places clean and reduce pollution entering the surrounding marine environment.
No camping, overnight stays or loud music
The new regulations also ban camping and overnight stays at the affected beaches and natural pools.
Visitors cannot use speakers or other sound equipment in a way that disturbs other people. Exceptions apply to emergencies and officially authorised events.
The council has introduced penalties for breaches of the ordinance, with the level of sanction depending on the seriousness of the offence.
So if your idea of a relaxing afternoon involves setting up camp, playing music for half the coastline and leaving your rubbish behind, you may need to rethink the plan.
Which Tenerife swimming spots are affected?
The rules apply to coastal bathing areas within the municipality of La Laguna, including:
- Bajamar, including its natural pools and adjoining beach.
- Jover, in Tejina.
- La Barranquera, in Valle de Guerra.
- El Arenisco, in Punta del Hidalgo.
These locations are popular with local residents and visitors looking for a swim away from the island’s larger tourist beaches.
One important point: these are municipal rules for La Laguna, not a blanket ban covering every beach in Tenerife. Other municipalities may have their own regulations.
Better accessibility and safety
The ordinance isn’t just about prohibitions. La Laguna Council has also committed to improving access to its coastal facilities, including removing barriers where possible and providing adapted beach wheelchairs and accessible toilets, particularly during busy periods.
The council has also highlighted improvements to lifeguard and rescue services following the renewal of its municipal contract.
Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez says the aim is to balance public enjoyment of the coastline with environmental protection and the needs of local communities.
For anyone who regularly visits the north-east coast, the message is simple: enjoy the sea, keep the area clean and check the local rules before heading out.