Covid-safe Algarve beach guidelines come with fines

The Maritime Police will fine those who do not comply with the rules defined for the use of the Algarve beaches this summer. The use of a mask to access/enter the beaches, restaurants, changing rooms etc is essential, with fines of between 50 and 100 euros having been approved by the Council of Ministers.

Not only will citizens have to pay fines, but food sellers, restaurants and bars on the beach will also be fined if they fail to sanitize and clean equipment, or fail to post the regulations for bathers. These fines vary between 500 and 1,000 euros.

The use of a mask will be mandatory until you place the towel on the beach and the signs for access to the beach will have to be respected. The law also provides for fines for those who do not respect the distance of 1.5 meters on the way to the beach.

Most standards do not differ from those established last year. However, the Expresso reported that the rental of play/sports equipment will be allowed, along with the rental of awnings, loungers or beach umbrellas. Some sports activities are allowed again, as long as they comply with the defined rules.

The bathing season kicks off this Saturday in some areas of the country, such as Cascais and Algarve. In the remaining areas it starts in June.

Original article available in Portuguese at http://postal.pt/