Authorities prohibit access to a popular part of Fuerteventura's north coast

A new sign put up by Costas (the Coastal Authorities) this week prohibits camping, dumping rubbish, and even accessing and circulating along a dirt road that leads to a large area of the northern coast of Fuerteventura, between Majanicho and La Caleta del Barco, to protect the natural environment of the area.

The area, commonly frequented by sports enthusiasts, fishermen from the northern part of the island, and families seeking a secluded spot away from tourists for swimming, especially during the summer, has been closed to the public by the coastal authorities. The sign confirms that this prohibition is stipulated in Law 22/1988 of June 28 on Coastal Regulations.

Many people are finding it incomprehensible that access is prohibited, although they understand the ban on camping and even a process of regulating access. "But the prohibition is outrageous because the area is regularly used by sports enthusiasts, fishermen, and people who enjoy the coast with conservation and environmental observance criteria," they have commented on social media.

Interestingly, the Canary Islands Government recently assumed responsibilities for coastal matters in the archipelago. Still, in the case of access prohibition, the logo belongs to the Government of Spain, "Canary Islands demarcation," sparking controversy.

The sign does remind that "producing damage or intentional vandalism to this informative sign may result in criminal liability," calling for civility to resolve any conflicts.