Recently, a group of about 100 residents held a demonstration on a beach in Ibiza. They sought to voice their concerns about the overwhelming influx of tourists to the island, which is part of Spain’s Balearic Islands. The demonstration was organized by the Ibiza Youth Association and took place at Cala Saladeta, a popular tourist destination.
Growing Frustration Against Mass Tourism
Ibiza, or Eivissa as locals call it, sees a significant increase in population during the summer months due to tourism. The Balearic Islands Statistics Institute reported that nearly 1.2 million tourists visited Ibiza in the second quarter of 2025. Residents have expressed frustration over the pressure mass tourism places on public and private spaces.
“Our land and culture are being pushed out of public spaces and becoming solely tourist attractions,” the group’s manifesto declared.
The protesters distributed watermelon as a symbol of their demand for more resident-friendly use of public spaces. They aim to challenge the current tourism model that they believe favors wealthy visitors, making life on Ibiza increasingly difficult for locals.
Challenges Stemming from Tourism
The manifesto also highlighted the rising costs of housing and food as tourism drives prices higher. Young residents particularly feel alienated from enjoying their island as tourists do.
“Young people are fed up with sacrificing spaces for tourists under this tourism model, which makes life precarious,” the manifesto stated.
Ibiza’s coves were specifically mentioned as areas overrun by tourists, pointing out the need for these places to become tranquil and welcoming for locals once more.
Efforts to Address Overtourism
Responding to the protests, the President of the Ibiza Island Council, Vicent Marí, acknowledged the island’s past efforts in managing tourist numbers. However, tensions continue not only in Ibiza but broadly across Spain, with cities like Barcelona also experiencing demonstrations against the tourist influx.
In Barcelona, residents have previously used water guns to express their frustration with tourists. Meanwhile, on Mallorca, viral videos have surfaced showing pickpockets targeting tourists in busy areas.