The bathing season has just begun but Italian beaches have already become the scene of heated debates and protests linked to the new access regulations. The most striking case comes from the south-east of Sardinia, precisely in the municipal area of Villasimius, where the administration has decided to lock down the natural paradise of Punta Molentis.
After the devastating fire that destroyed hectares of dense vegetation and several cars on 27 July 2025, Mayor Gianluca Dessì signed union ordinance number 12 of 5 June 2026 to drastically reduce the impact of swimmers and protect the geomorphological balance of the protected area.
Entrance fee: 10 euros per person
The new regulation, in force from 6 June to 31 October, establishes very strict rules which immediately caused a stir on social networks. To step on the famous sand and immerse yourself in the turquoise waters of the site, visitors will have to pay a daily rate of 10 euros per person, while entry remains free only for a maximum of three people with disabilities and their companions. The operational management of flows and mandatory reservations was entrusted to the in-house company Villasimius Srl, supported by daily checks by the local police.
The ban on shade
But the measure that is causing tourists the most discussion concerns the absolute ban on putting up umbrellas, gazebos and tents. The provision prohibits anyone from creating autonomous shaded areas on the beach, introducing a special exemption exclusively for families with children up to the age of 10 and for elderly people over 65 years of age.
According to the municipal administration, the limitation was essential to safeguard the protected dune habitats and to guarantee the safety of users, limiting presences within sustainable limits. However, as mentioned, controversy has mounted with many comments which, rightly, point out how dangerous it is for your health and skin to expose yourself to the sun all day without the possibility of having access to shade.
@Municipality of Villasimius
Restrictions for those disembarking from the sea
The restrictions become even more severe for those who decide to reach the bay by sea. Landings are granted only to carriers authorized by the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, for a maximum of one hundred people at the same time and with a stopover time limited to one hour. Those arriving from boats will not be able to bring backpacks or coolers, nor place shading systems.
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