Tenerife bans tourists from using soap and shampoo on beaches or they face a £2,500 fine

La Laguna City Council has introduced sweeping new regulations governing the northern Tenerife coastline, with penalties of up to €3,000 (£2,540) for those who break them. Approved on October 7, the rules ban smoking, littering, camping, loud music and the use of personal hygiene products such as soap and shampoo at public showers and bathing areas. Popular spots including Bajamar beach, La Barranquera and Jover are all affected. Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez says the measures aim to balance enjoyment of the beaches with protection of the marine environment.

The soap and shampoo ban applies to every beach and natural pool along the La Laguna coastline, not just one or two spots.

Sound equipment is forbidden except in emergencies or official events, ending the beach-party culture at affected locations.

Tenerife's 31 municipalities have committed £70m to reversing coastal damage as part of a wider 'zero waste' drive across the island.