The Rising Cost of a Day at the Beach in Europe
Spending a day on the beach in Europe is no longer just about soaking up the sun and enjoying the sea breeze. For many, it has become an expensive luxury, with prices for beach loungers and parasols soaring to staggering levels. From the Amalfi Coast to the glamorous beaches of Ibiza and Sardinia, securing a spot on some of the most sought-after stretches of sand can cost as much as a night at a five-star hotel.
Many of the most picturesque beaches around the Mediterranean are now privately owned, making access to them increasingly exclusive. A basic pair of sun loungers with a parasol can range from £20 to £50 per day, while more luxurious options can push the price into the hundreds of pounds. This trend is particularly noticeable in high season, when demand for prime spots drives up costs significantly.
One of the most expensive beach rentals recently reported was at Club La Cabane on the Costa del Sol. Located near Marbella, this beach club offers day beds that can cost up to €1,200 (£1,034). These loungers come with striking blue Dolce & Gabbana prints and include a €200 voucher for Champagne. Despite the extravagant price, it’s essentially a lounge chair with a view of the sea or pool.
High Prices in Italy’s Coastal Areas
Italy has seen a dramatic increase in the cost of renting beach loungers and parasols. According to research by an Italian consumer group, the average cost of two loungers and a parasol has risen from around €180 (£154) to €210 (£180) over the past four years. This has led to frustration among locals and tourists alike, especially in regions like Calabria and Emilia-Romagna, where visitor numbers have dropped by 15 to 25 percent compared to 2024.
In Alassio on the Ligurian coast, the price for a pair of loungers is as high as €340 (£292), while Gallipoli and Alghero also see steep rates. Antonio Capacchione, president of the Italian Beach Resorts Syndicate (Sib), noted that rising living costs have made it difficult for many families to afford a trip to the beach. He said, “Even with two salaries, many families struggle to reach the end of the month.”
Luxury Beach Clubs Across the Mediterranean
The trend of high-priced beach loungers extends beyond Italy. On Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, guests at Nikki Beach can expect to pay €400 (£344) for a pair of loungers, which includes a redeemable €230 (£198) credit for drinks. Meanwhile, on Mallorca and Ibiza, the costs are equally steep.
At UM Beach House in Calvia, a bed for up to three people can cost €700 (£603), with a €450 (£387) food and drink credit included. On Ibiza, day guests at Atzaro Beach in Cala Nova will need to spend €350 (£301) for a rustic lounger, which also includes a €125 (£107) food credit.
In Monaco, the Monte-Carlo Beach Club offers striped loungers with a view for €350 (£301), while in France, La Réserve à la Plage in Var charges €250 (£215) for a pair of sun loungers.
Finding Affordable Options
Despite the high prices in many areas, there are still more affordable options available. On the Costa Smeralda, for example, Playa Esmeralda offers a pair of loungers for around €15 (£13) during peak season. This shows that shopping around can lead to significant savings.
As the cost of a day at the beach continues to rise, travelers are being forced to reconsider their plans. While some may still choose to splurge on a luxury beach experience, others are opting for more budget-friendly alternatives. With so many options available, it’s clear that the Mediterranean still offers something for every traveler—whether they’re looking for a lavish escape or a simple day by the sea.
