The tourist season in Vlorë has started with promises that citizens would still have access to public beach areas. However, despite regulations requiring that 30% of licensed beach space remain free of charge, this rule is not being enforced, leaving many vacationers frustrated.

Beachgoers describe a different reality:

“Everything is taken here, all spots are occupied with umbrellas. There’s barely any space left. We sit on the cement steps—what else can we do? We’re pensioners, we don’t have money. No, the rule isn’t being followed. They’ve taken everything. Who listens to us?” says an elderly man.

Another adds:
“There’s no political will to keep beaches public. Look around—do you see 50 meters of public beach, or is it all hotel space? We sit on the stairs because public beaches don’t exist. It’s humiliating. Look across the sea—compare the prices. We don’t want tourists who eat onions and tomatoes—we want paying tourists. Based on the population and coastline, there should be many more public spaces. What’s happening here is chaos. And if there’s no political will, things will only get worse.”

The vast majority of Vlorë’s coastline has been occupied by private businesses offering paid umbrella and lounge services. So far, over 150 businesses have secured contracts to operate along the beach, and this number is expected to rise, further shrinking public access for local residents and low-income vacationers.