The unmistakable sign of summer has arrived – not through rising temperatures or barbecue smoke, but via the return of the annual sunbed wars at all-inclusive resorts.
The first recorded dispute took place at the Hyde Park Lane resort in Lanzarote, where a heated confrontation unfolded between guests over access to poolside loungers.
Scene, caught on camera by 31-year-old holidaymaker Callum Lines, featured a Scottish woman confronting another guest for allegedly occupying sunbeds she claimed to have been using throughout the week.
Despite the resort’s rules banning the reservation of loungers, the woman was filmed accusing the seated guest of moving her belongings.
A nearby sign, just out of frame, states the hotel’s no-reservation policy. During the encounter, the woman demanded her spot back and was heard shouting: “You picked on the wrong person,” while threatening to report the incident to hotel management. However, according to witnesses, no staff intervened.
Callum, who observed the row, commented: “The Scottish lady said they had been using those beds all week, accusing the couple lying down of moving their items.” He added that she left to seek management assistance, but no none arrived.
The incident escalated further when Callum referred to the woman as a “Karen,” a remark that drew her ire. “Don’t be cheeky, don’t be smart-mouthed either,” she responded. “You don’t know who you’re talking to, and you don’t know who we’re here with.” In return, Callum jokingly asked, “Ronnie Pickering?”
Reflecting on the scene, Callum added: “I’ve always got two pence to share even when it’s probably not required, but you come away for a rest and some relaxation. There were plenty of other available beds – all with equal sun exposure – so this wasn’t necessary.”
While this was just one altercation, it highlights a widespread issue that affects tourist resorts across Europe during the summer months. Sunbed hogging has become such a problem that some countries have taken drastic measures to control it.
In Greece, drones were deployed last year across “beach-hogging” hotspots, including Corfu and areas around Athens. Citizens were encouraged to report illegal towel reservations via an app, which resulted in around €350,000 worth of fines being issued in just five days. Locals on the island of Paros even launched the “Towel Movement” to reclaim public beach space from over-tourism.
Spain, too, has cracked down on early-morning beach reservations. Authorities in Calpe, Alicante, issued €250 fines to those caught placing towels, chairs, or umbrellas before 9:30 am to combat the practice.
Industry leaders in Spain have warned they will not tolerate “empty but reserved” loungers as anti-tourist sentiment continues to grow.
As summer 2025 approaches, similar tensions are expected to flare up again — unless tourists choose relaxation over reservation.
