As the summer season approaches, British holidaymakers planning trips to the Canary Islands are being warned of a fresh wave of anti-tourism protests. The Spanish archipelago, known for its stunning beaches and warm climate, saw significant demonstrations last year, and activists are gearing up for another summer of unrest.
In 2024, nearly 18 million tourists visited the Canary Islands, marking a remarkable 10% increase from the previous year. British tourists alone accounted for over 40% of these international arrivals, with Tenerife remaining the most popular destination among them. However, this influx has led to growing discontent among local residents who argue that the islands are "reaching their limit" in terms of tourist numbers.
Ivan Cerdena Molina, an activist and member of the local environmental organization ATAN, expressed the frustrations of many locals. He stated, "The situation is really critical, no one who wants to enjoy holidays with peace would come to a collapsed and congested island; it's simple, there are too many people everywhere." His message to prospective tourists is clear: "Please don't come, we cannot take it anymore."
Protests began in 2024, with tens of thousands of locals taking to the streets to demand changes, arguing that the over-reliance on tourism is harming the environment, housing availability, and job security. Initially, these demonstrations were concentrated in less tourist-heavy areas, such as the capital, Santa Cruz. However, as the local government failed to take substantial action, protesters shifted their focus to popular tourist spots like Playa De Las Americas, hoping to trigger policy changes to limit visitor numbers and second-home ownership.
As the peak tourist season approaches, activists have announced plans for a massive protest on May 18, 2025. Under the banner "the Canaries have a limit," the coalition of groups aims to escalate their tactics. In a recent press release, they vowed to boycott public events, confront political leaders, and occupy symbolic tourist spaces to make their demands clear. "From now on, we will take our fight to the very spaces where their predatory model is perpetuated," the statement read.
The protesters' commitment to action is not limited to Tenerife. In the Balearic Islands, demonstrators are also preparing for significant protests. The Majorcan group Menys Turisme, Més Vida - translating to "Less Tourism, More Life" - has called for its members to intensify their efforts, with a massive demonstration planned for May Day, May 1, 2025. Trade unions are gearing up for what they describe as "the most militant demonstration in years," aimed at opposing the Balearic government's policies on housing and mass tourism.
The activists argue that the Canary Islands can no longer be a mere vacation photo-op for the privileged few. They emphasize the need for sustainable growth that prioritizes the well-being of local residents over profit-driven tourism. "We are the Canarian people - a people who will not give up until we achieve the change we deserve. On May 18, the fight continues in the streets. What comes next will be impossible to ignore," they declared.
Despite the protests and the clear message from locals, the number of tourists visiting the Canary Islands continues to rise. Last year, the islands saw 16 million visitors in 2023, a number that jumped to 18 million in 2024. As the trend appears set to continue into 2025, the question remains: will tourists heed the warnings of local residents, or will they continue to flock to the islands?
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how effective the protests will be in influencing tourist behavior and government policy. The activists are determined to make their voices heard, and with the summer season approaching, tensions are likely to escalate.
For those considering a trip to the Canary Islands this summer, it may be wise to stay informed about the ongoing protests and the sentiments of local residents. The beautiful landscapes and warm weather may be enticing, but the underlying issues of over-tourism and its effects on the community are becoming increasingly hard to ignore.
As the protests ramp up, the message from locals is clear: they are tired of the current state of affairs and are demanding change. Whether tourists will listen and adjust their travel plans remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the Canary Islands are at a crossroads, and the actions taken in the coming months will shape the future of tourism in the region.
