As summer gets underway across the Costa Blanca, local authorities are reminding residents and visitors about two important seasonal initiatives designed to protect both public health and the environment. From smoke-free beaches along the coastline to restrictions on agricultural burning in rural areas, the measures aim to reduce pollution, prevent wildfires and help everyone enjoy a safer summer season.

Smoke-free shores

The Costa Blanca South is leading the way in the push for healthier beaches, with a growing number of municipalities joining the Playa sin Humo (Smoke-Free Beach) programme.

The initiative aims to reduce exposure to tobacco smoke while helping protect the coastline from cigarette litter, one of the most common forms of beach pollution.

Several of the area’s most popular beaches are now part of the scheme, including San Juan, Postiguet and Urbanova in Alicante, Arenales del Sol and La Marina in Elche, Muchavista in El Campello, several beaches in Guardamar del Segura, and Cala del Cabo Cervera and Cala Piteras in Torrevieja.

The programme forms part of a wider effort to promote healthier public spaces while encouraging greater respect for the natural environment. Cigarette ends remain one of the most frequently discarded items found during coastal clean-up campaigns and can take years to break down.

Although the initiative is largely based on awareness and education, some municipalities have introduced local regulations to strengthen the message. In certain areas, smoking on designated beaches can result in fines, so visitors are advised to check local signage before lighting up.

The move comes as increasing attention is being placed on public health and environmental protection across the Costa Blanca.

With thousands of residents and holidaymakers heading to the coast this summer, local authorities hope the smoke-free beaches will help create a more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Burning ban

If you live on the Costa Blanca countryside and regularly burn garden waste, pruning cuttings or agricultural vegetation, it is time to put away the matches.

The Valencian Government has reminded residents that the annual ban on agricultural burning is now in force and will remain in place until 15 October as part of its summer wildfire prevention campaign.

The restrictions apply to agricultural and forestry vegetation waste on woodland and land located within 500 metres of forest areas, a zone that includes many rural homes, fincas and smallholdings across Alicante Province.

With temperatures rising and vegetation becoming increasingly dry, authorities say the summer months present the highest risk of wildfire. Even a small spark can quickly develop into a major blaze, threatening homes, farmland and protected natural areas.

While some municipalities operate Local Burning Plans that allow limited burning under strict conditions, these exceptions are only available in designated low-risk areas and are subject to wildfire alert levels. Where permitted, burning must generally be completed before 11:00 AM.

Officials are advising homeowners and landowners to check local regulations carefully, as many properties fall within the 500-metre Forest Influence Zone without owners realising it.

The reminder comes as emergency services prepare for the busiest period of the wildfire season, with prevention remaining one of the most effective ways of reducing the risk of potentially devastating fires across the region.

From fitness sessions and food trails to creative workshops, there is no shortage of ways to get involved in community events across the Costa Blanca this June. Whether you fancy dancing your way through a summer evening, sampling delicious local food or trying your hand at a new craft, these upcoming events offer something for all ages and interests while showcasing the variety of activities available throughout the region.

Get moving

IF you have been looking for an excuse to dust off your trainers, Zenia Boulevard has just the thing.

On Friday 19 June, the shopping centre’s Plaza Mayor will host a free evening of Zumba and Sevillanas in partnership with Cruz Roja (Red Cross), offering visitors the chance to get active.

Running from 7:00 PM until 8:30 PM, the event is open to all ages and abilities, making it the perfect opportunity to try something new, meet people and enjoy some exercise.

Participants can join energetic Zumba sessions or try their hand at traditional Sevillanas dancing, all under the guidance of experienced instructors. Best of all, no previous experience is required, so complete beginners are more than welcome.

Organisers say the aim is to create an enjoyable community event where people can move, learn and spend time together while supporting the work of Cruz Roja.

Participation is free, and no advance booking is required.

With summer now in full swing, the event offers a great excuse to get outdoors, enjoy some music and burn off a few calories at the same time.

Montadito trail

Food lovers will have the perfect excuse to eat their way around Pilar de la Horadada this month as the town launches a week-long Montadito Route showcasing some of the area’s best bars and restaurants.

Running from 15 to 21 June, the event will see ten local venues serving specially created montaditos paired with a drink, giving residents and visitors the chance to sample a wide variety of flavours while exploring the municipality.

Each venue has developed its own special montadito for the event. At Bocarriba Cocina, visitors can sample the Muhammara Pilareño con Puerro Glaseado (Pilareño-style muhammara with glazed leek), while Dos.30 is serving its Mollete DOS.30 (soft Andalusian bread roll with the venue’s signature filling).

At Pizzería Arrocería Plaza, diners can try the Delicia Ibérica (Iberian delight) and Capricho Plaza (Plaza special). Elsewhere, La Granja offers El Canalla (The Rascal), while T1 is preparing a Criollito a la Brasa con Salsa Chimichurri (grilled criollo sausage with chimichurri sauce).

Meanwhile, Taska D’Gusta is serving a Bifana de Aguja Marinada (marinated pork steak roll), and Torremar has created its own signature Torremar montadito. Those looking for something different can sample Ay Chihuahua!’s Pambazo de Birria de Res (Mexican-style birria beef sandwich), while Parthenope rounds off the route with its Vesuvio (inspired by Mount Vesuvius and Neapolitan flavours).

As an added bonus, visitors will receive an exclusive commemorative magnet featuring Pilar de la Horadada’s new logo with every montadito purchased.

The route is expected to attract both local residents and visitors keen to discover new flavours while supporting local hospitality businesses. It also provides a fun way to explore different venues throughout the town over the course of the week.

Crafty launch

Creative residents are being invited to celebrate the launch of a new workshop space in Benijofar with an evening of crafting, refreshments and fun.

MyCraft Workshop will officially open its doors on Saturday, 13 June, with a special Charm Photo Frame Decorating Workshop, giving participants the chance to design and personalise their own decorative photo frame.

The grand opening event begins at 6:00 PM and is designed for anyone who enjoys arts, crafts and meeting like-minded people.

As part of the launch, guests will receive welcome gifts and be able to enjoy drinks, refreshments and snacks throughout the evening. There will also be photo opportunities and plenty of time to explore the new workshop space.

To mark the occasion, places are being offered at a special introductory price of €20 per person.

Spaces are strictly limited to just 10 participants, and early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. To book your spot, email: mycraftworkshop2025@gmail.com or call (+34) 665 499 634.

The workshop is open to all skill levels, meaning no previous crafting experience is required.

The event takes place at MyCraft Workshop, Calle Doña Paz 33, 1/5, 03178 Benijofar, on Friday 13 June at 6:00 PM.

Emotional canvas

Art enthusiasts are being invited to discover a colourful new exhibition in Orihuela.

Orihuela has officially opened El Color es Emocion (Colour is Emotion). The exhibition brings together the work of artists Gabriel Morilla Alcalá and Simón Gea Martínez and will remain open to the public until 28 June.

The collective exhibition explores the power of colour as a form of artistic and emotional expression. Through a variety of techniques and styles, the artists invite visitors to experience painting in a more personal and sensory way, where feelings, imagination and creativity take centre stage.

Rather than attempting to reproduce reality, the works focus on emotion, interpretation and individual experience. Bold colours, expressive brushstrokes and rich textures combine to create pieces designed to connect directly with the viewer.

The exhibition draws inspiration from artistic movements including Impressionism, Surrealism and American Expressionism, resulting in a collection that celebrates freedom of expression and the exploration of inner emotions.

El Color es Emocion can be visited at the Museum of the Reconquest, Calle Francisco Díe 34, Orihuela. Opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and Sundays from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

L’Opera Royal in Marbella celebrated the beginning of its summer 2026 season last Saturday, June 6. Owners combined this launch with celebrations for the first anniversary of the restaurant opening through an invite-only event at their boutique restaurant devoted to its location overlooking Playa Bajadilla next to Marbella’s fishing harbour in the La Bajadilla district.

Community formed the core of proceedings despite the private guest list. Patrons of all ages who had already built strong relationships with the venue during the previous year joined business partners and local Marbella business leaders.

Rossy de Palma and live music elevate the occasion.

Globally famed Spanish actress Rossy de Palma, recognised as an Almodovar muse, attended to support the success of a leading Costa del Sol venue this year.

Luna Lionne, singer, author and daughter of Rossy de Palma, participated as a friend to Sebastian and Maria, lending her divine, soulful singing voice. Jazz numbers started the music before a funky DJ continued the lively sounds late into the night.

Passion and artistic flair shaped the cuisine that came next with youthful nods to the coastal surroundings. Fresh healthy tastes satisfy modern demands free from typical stereotypes.

Dedicated team creates second home feel

Sebastian took charge in the kitchen. Maria shook her finest cocktail creations. Business partner José Antonio welcomed guests at the front of house like family members.

Owners treat L’Opera Royal as their house with diners as honoured guests rather than ordinary customers. This method sets the restaurant apart from others in town. An atmosphere of a second home develops where regular visitors return as friends who feel completely at ease.

Cool atmosphere and inclusive approach define summer ahead.

Visitors to l’Opéra Royal this summer can expect a cool relaxed setting. Everyone receives a welcome within affordable price ranges. Service arrives with passion like that from an old trusted friend. People can pop in for coffee, an inventive cocktail or a surprisingly delicious meal any time they choose. Just drop in, or book at loperaroyal.com