The Battle for Beach Space Is Returning to the Croatian Coast

May the 24th, 2026 – You walk onto a beach early in the morning only to find rows of towels already spread across the best spots, despite almost nobody actually being there, and it’s happening up and down the Croatian coast. As Croatia prepares for another busy and now quickly approaching tourist season, there are plenty of complaints, arguments and photos connected to not only coffee receipts, but beach space reservation culture along the Croatian coast and islands. In some destinations, the co

Across parts of Dalmatia, Istria and popular island destinations, tourists increasingly place towels, umbrellas and personal items on beaches early in the morning in order to “reserve” space for later in the day. In some cases, beach spots are claimed hours before the people themselves return. The practice is especially common on smaller beaches where space is naturally limited during peak summer periods. For many visitors, however, seeing empty towels occupying prime locations has become a major source of frustration. The issue reflects a wider tourism reality about Croatia’s beaches being placed under increasing seasonal pressure. As visitor numbers continue rising, especially during July and August, available beach space in many Adriatic destinations becomes highly competitive. Unlike countries with long stretches of wide sandy coastline, much of Croatia’s coast consists of smaller rocky coves, narrow pebble beaches and compact waterfront areas. That geography naturally intensifies crowding during peak season. Photos of “reserved” beaches regularly spread across social media each summer, often triggering heated arguments online. Some users defend the practice as normal holiday behaviour, especially for families or larger groups. Others view it as selfish and disrespectful toward fellow beachgoers. Many frame the issue as part of a broader discussion about tourism etiquette and overcrowding on the Adriatic in general.

Key points

• Across parts of Dalmatia, Istria and popular island destinations, tourists increasingly place towels, umbrellas and personal items on beaches early in the morning in order to “reserve” space for la…
• In some cases, beach spots are claimed hours before the people themselves return.
• The practice is especially common on smaller beaches where space is naturally limited during peak summer periods.
• For many visitors, however, seeing empty towels occupying prime locations has become a major source of frustration.
• The issue reflects a wider tourism reality about Croatia’s beaches being placed under increasing seasonal pressure.