Driving vehicles onto beach areas is illegal, the Traffic Police have reminded the public ahead of the upcoming long weekend for Independence Day on Monday, September 15. Authorities issued this reminder as many people are expected to visit beaches during the holiday.
According to Martín Sánchez Agüero, Deputy Director of the Traffic Police, “Quad bikes, motorcycles and even cars enter beach zones where people are sunbathing—unaware, with their eyes closed or covering their faces, as is their right. There are also children building sandcastles and groups of friends playing ball games, deeply engaged in play. It is highly risky for irresponsible individuals to bring vehicles into these pedestrian recreation areas.”
Sánchez added that parking a motorcycle on sand can be unstable and could result in accidents: “A motorcycle parked on sand could fall on a child or, within minutes after being turned off, a child might touch its hot muffler and suffer a significant burn.”
There are also risks to vehicles themselves when driven onto sandy beach areas. Vehicles may become stuck and unable to move or may be damaged if the tide rises and saltwater reaches them.
The law restricts vehicle access to beaches under specific circumstances. Article 133 of the Traffic Law states that only vehicles with authorization from the General Directorate of Traffic Engineering may enter beaches. Permits are also required for activities such as removing fishing products or launching/retrieving boats from water, or in emergencies.
Violations carry penalties: Article 146, section s) establishes a fine of approximately ¢61,000 for those who break this rule.
Anyone witnessing illegal driving behavior on beaches is encouraged to call 9-1-1 and report it.
Sánchez further advised staying away from areas where boats land or depart with passengers for tours and instead remaining at a safe distance from these points.
