A beach on an island visited by millions of Brits every year was shut down by officials after high bacteria levels were found in the water amid daily monitoring. The sunny spot popular with tourists visiting Tenerife has been fenced off with barriers and tape after being declared a no-swim zone.
Taking a dip at La Pinta beach in Costa Adeje has been highly discouraged by local authorities since May 14, after water samples were taken. Barriers were placed on the seafront by Adeje Town Hall to prevent people from getting into the water while samples are reviewed and the bacteria level returns to a safe one.
Red flags also appeared on the sand to deter holidaymakers and locals alike from going for a swim.
The analysis showed signs of microbiological levels linked to enterococci bacteria.
Exposure to contaminated water can lead to stomach illnesses as well as skin, eye and respiratory infections.
Tenerife is one of the most popular islands in the Canaries, with millions of tourists visiting it every year.
More than two million Brits are believed to visit, on average, the island every year.
This popularity with holidaymakers has led locals to protest against overtourism, with thousands marching between 2024 and 2025 to ask the local government to embrace a different tourism plan mindful of the communities on the island.
While some protesters held placards telling tourists “to go home”, organisers of protests said they recognised the value and importance of tourism for the Tenerife economy, but called for more sustainable models.
