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Irish travellers heading to Sardinia this summer should note new beach rules at Punta Molentis: local authorities have banned the use of umbrellas for people aged between 10 and 65 and introduced a €10 entry charge. The measures form part of a broader effort to protect the site after last year’s wildfire.
What the restrictions mean for visitors
Under the new regulation, anyone aged 10 to 65 may not erect a beach umbrella at Punta Molentis, near Villasimius. People outside that age bracket may bring one umbrella only per family.
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Entrance to the public beach now carries a €10 fee, and temporary shade structures such as gazebos and tents are prohibited. Officials say the rules will remain in force until the end of October.
Reason behind the change
The council in Villasimius said the restrictions follow a major wildfire that closed the area in July last year and were reinforced by what it called “exceptional marine weather events”.
A notice on the municipality’s website states: “For this reason it’s necessary to limit the [human] impact and ensure the protection of this heritage for future generations.”
Local and visitor reaction
The measures have prompted disbelief online. One social-media user quipped: “To put up an umbrella I have to rent a child??”
Another comment read: “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.” Critics pointed to high temperatures and limited shade as reasons for frustration.
Others joked about bringing elderly relatives or children simply to be able to use a family umbrella.
Similar moves elsewhere in Italy
Punta Molentis is not alone. In Jesolo, near Venice, authorities have removed roughly 20,000 sunlounger and umbrella spaces to reduce overcrowding and increase distance between beachgoers.
Officials say the change responds in part to rising rental costs at private beach clubs, which have pushed more holidaymakers toward public sands.
For Irish tourists planning a visit, the practical takeaway is clear: check local beach rules before you travel and plan for limited shade and an entry charge at Punta Molentis.
