Marbella releases full beach rules for Noche de San Juan bonfires in 2026

One of the biggest nights of the year is just around the corner when the beaches will fill up all along the Costa del Sol with bonfires, fireworks and barbecues, and the local councils are preparing.

Marbella council has published a municipal bylaw setting strict conditions for beach use during Noche de San Juan on June 23. Council officials hope to protect public safety, preserve the coastline and make smooth operations sure for everyone on one of the busiest nights of the year.

Approved locations for private bonfires

Private individuals may light bonfires only in designated zones, the one night of the year this is permitted. These include San Pedro Alcantara beach; Nueva Andalucia beach next to the moragas area; El Cable and El Pinillo beaches from the eastern wall of Puerto de La Bajadilla to Rio Real; plus Alicate and Real de Zaragoza beaches at spots near Plaza Los Tamarindos, Urbanización Las Chapas, Chiringuito Siroco and the Las Chapas moragas zone.

Rules for chiringuitos and fixed beach venues

Chiringuitos beach bars, permanent beach businesses and temporary structures may hold controlled fires in the sand directly beside their premises, but still at a safe distance. Operators must keep the occupied area safe, remove all waste and leave the site completely clean by 4am on June 24 at the very latest. Businesses need to submit a general application through the council’s online office to the beaches department by June 18. After that date, no more applications will be allowed.

Safety measures everyone must follow

Only wood is allowed as fuel. Burning plastics, glass or other hazardous materials is banned to protect the environment. Every bonfire must sit at least eight metres from any seasonal installations, equipment or services. Uncontrolled ignition devices such as sky lanterns or flying objects are prohibited because they create fire risks and danger to other people.

Music permissions and deadlines

Beach venues may play live music of small format or background tracks between 8pm and 1am, and the local police will be nearby wagging their fingers if you go over the limit. Performances must stay inside authorised indoor areas or on terraces listed in the 2026-2029 seasonal services plan. Venue owners must file a responsible declaration via the council online office before June 18 as well.

Cleaning operation and public help

Council cleaning teams will start work at 4am on 24 June. Council leaders ask everyone to support the effort by clearing rubbish promptly so the coastline returns to top condition after the celebrations.