Further anti-tourism protests have erupted on a remote beach in Mallorca that has become popular with “Instagram tourists”.
More than 300 locals gathered in picturesque Es Calo des Moro on Sunday afternoon, marching and chanting “Tourists go home” and carrying banners that read “Occupy our beaches.”
Known for its stunning cliffs and crystal clear waters, Es Calo des Moro has undergone a dramatic transformation from a secluded local gem to a must-see destination recommended by influencers and travel bloggers.
This growing popularity has led to crowds and queues, with residents waiting up to three hours last summer just to get to the beach.
Read more: Cadiz joins Spain’s ‘anti-tourism’ movement: Locals planning major protests this month accuse tourists of ‘stealing our city’
Around 300 locals protest against the presence of foreign tourists in a remote cove in Mallorca. Photo credit: Mallorca Platja Tours
Protesters from across the island had been arriving since the early hours of Sunday morning to enjoy a swim before influencers arrived in droves.
Just before descending into Calo des Moro Bay, volunteers carrying leaflets in German and English stood under overcast skies informing arriving tourists of the day’s events.
The protests appeared to scare off some tourists, with many choosing to visit nearby Almunia Bay and other sites.
Some of the complainants tried to explain that their protests were not directed directly at tourists, but were instead a gesture by local residents who feel that they have been deprived of their land, beaches and iconic sites which are being degraded day by day.
“Through this action we want to say that Mallorca is also our home and that everyone should have the right to enjoy this natural space,” the group from Colonia de Sant Jordi said.
“We, the residents, have the right to live on the island without being alienated.
Read more: ‘We won’t stop!’: Anti-tourism protesters plan new demonstrations in the Balearic Islands
Now, the port of Mallorca has protested on the Morro River against the capitalist business model of mass tourism. La Guardia Civil did not reveal their identities, but confirmed their identity. pic.twitter.com/cTGoPpVvWc
— Fonsi Loaiza (@FonsiLoaiza) June 16, 2024
“We are very organised Mallorcans who come to the beach at 8am. If we are not, it is not possible as if we come a little later we would have to queue.”
Despite the festive atmosphere organisers had hoped for, plainclothes and uniformed security police began to show up as protesters began chanting slogans against foreign tourists on the beach.
According to those in attendance, police set up barriers separating local Mallorcans from foreign tourists and checked the identification cards of locals, but did not appear to make similar demands on tourists.
Local governments have faced criticism for not effectively managing the influx of tourists, which has not only eroded beaches but also strained infrastructure and reduced the quality of life for residents.
