Palma City Council has approved the tender for new beach concessions for the 2026-2029 period, which will include a reduction of more than 1,000 sun beds and the elimination of a kiosk in Cala Major due to ongoing beach erosion. This significant cut represents a 30% reduction in the total number of sunbeds. Additionally, in the tender for Palma's beaches, which has been divided into five different lots, the concept of premium sunbeds has been introduced, although Balinese beds have been prohibited.
Government spokesperson Mercedes Celeste, who presented the new beach concession tender, explained that "premium sunbeds will be located in El Arenal and Cala Major". The contract will be awarded through different lots covering various beaches across the municipality.
A key requirement in the new concession is the development of a mobile application that will allow visitors to book sun beds, umbrellas, or rent water sports equipment such as pedalos, kayaks, and paddle surf boards.
Bidders will be evaluated "not only on their economic offer but also on beach maintenance and sustainability". Additionally, sun beds and parasols must be beige or sand-coloured to blend with the surroundings.
Celeste explained that water activities on the beaches, such as pedalos, kayaks, and paddle boarding, will also be up for tender, and volleyball nets, football activities, and kiosks will be permitted on authorised beaches. The concession contract runs for four years, with a possible extension for another four.
The concession will also regulate the installation and removal of essential beach elements including lifeguard stations, accessibility points for people with reduced mobility, the placement and removal of posidonia seagrass, and beach cleaning operations, amongst other services.
Impact of coastal erosion
The significant reduction in sun loungers represents one of the most visible consequences of the coastal regression affecting Mallorca's beaches. Environmental experts have linked this phenomenon to climate change impacts and rising sea levels, which have gradually diminished the sand area available for recreational facilities.
Local authorities have emphasised that these measures are necessary to adapt beach services to the changing shoreline conditions while maintaining quality standards for both residents and tourists visiting Palma's beaches.