A beach in Italy has introduced strict temporary restrictions that apply to visitors within a specific age bracket, after fire damage and overcrowding raised fresh concerns about safety and conservation.
Spiaggia di Punta Molentis, in Villasimius on the south-eastern coast of Sardinia, has brought in the measures for people aged between 10 and 65.
The beach is a major draw for holidaymakers, but officials moved to act after the scenic Mediterranean site was badly damaged by fire in July 2025, which also highlighted how difficult evacuation could be when the beach is packed with umbrellas and other equipment.
The rules are being used to reduce pressure on the area and protect its fragile environment, with the restrictions currently due to remain in force until 31 October 2026.
Anyone planning a day trip to the beach must currently pay an entry fee of 10 euros, and access is also limited by reservation, with a cap on vehicles and the number of people allowed on site at any one time.
While charging for access is not especially rare at busy tourist spots, the conditions imposed once people arrive have sparked a strong backlash online, according to the Daily Mail.
One of the most controversial rules is that umbrellas can only be used by guests who are accompanied by children under 10, or by visitors over the age of 65, on the basis that they may be more vulnerable to the heat.
That policy has upset many beachgoers, with some venting their frustration on Facebook.
“Ah, Punta Molentis: the place where you pay 10 euros to enter… and in return they give you the unique experience of not being able to use an umbrella.
“A real luxury: sun at 40 degrees, no shade, but at least you can say you have contributed to environmental protection… with the sweat. And then the treat: ‘1 umbrella allowed only for families with children or over 65.”
Another joked: “You basically have to choose: you reproduce, or you grow old. In the meantime, you get it right.”
Others raised concerns about the potential health risks of spending hours in direct sunlight.
“What a beautiful day at the beach and a 20 hour emergency room for burns to be treated.”
The local council said the move was designed to preserve the natural beauty of Punta Molentis, which sits inside a designated conservation area, and to limit human impact so the site can be protected for future generations.
The umbrella restriction is not the only rule now in place, as tents and gazebos are also prohibited.
Visitors are also only allowed on the beach during set hours, with access running from 8am until 8.30pm, and everyone required to leave by 9pm.
Under the new order, access by land is limited to 70 vehicles a day and no more than 150 people at the same time, with the special umbrella exemption applying only to families with children up to 10 and to people aged 65 and over.
Officials say the tighter controls are meant to make the beach easier to manage during the summer season while reducing the risk of chaos in the event of another emergency.