Anti-tourism protests are intensifying in the Canary Islands, sparking a heated debate among locals over the role of holidaymakers in their communities. While some residents believe that tourism is crucial to their livelihoods, others argue that the surge in visitors is disrupting local life and driving up costs.
In recent weeks, beachgoers enjoying the islands’ world-renowned coastlines have encountered waves of protestors holding banners reading, “This is our beach” and “Tourists go home.” The protests seem to have left British vacationers unfazed as they continue to bask in the sun, but they underscore the growing tension surrounding the region’s tourism industry.
The Canary Islands, along with other popular European destinations such as mainland Spain and Greece, have witnessed a surge in anti-tourism demonstrations in 2023. Since April, over 70 associations have organized rallies across the islands, raising concerns about skyrocketing property prices, environmental degradation, and the impact on seasonal workers. While tourism fuels the islands’ economy by providing jobs and supporting businesses, some locals are worried that the increase in visitors is making life increasingly difficult for residents.
Statistics highlight the economic significance of tourism. Tenerife alone hosted 14.1 million international visitors in 2023, up from 13 million in 2019. However, this growth is also what fuels the protests, as residents worry about overcrowding and the strain on resources. The rallies have now moved from city centers to popular beach areas, bringing the protests closer to tourists themselves.
In response to the anti-tourism sentiments, some Canary Islanders have taken a different stance. Following the recent protests, Lanzarote residents organized a “We Love Tourism” rally to showcase their support for the industry. This countermarch highlighted the divide within the archipelago, as many recognize that tourism remains a key economic driver that sustains livelihoods, particularly in smaller towns and coastal communities.
As the Canary Islands grapple with the impact of tourism on local life, the region faces a pressing question: how to balance the economic benefits of tourism with the need to preserve community resources and protect the quality of life for its residents. It is clear that this issue is far from resolved.