The spike in pricing among Athens’ popular seaside areas has raised major concerns for locals and tourists alike with sunbeds singled out particularly for having reached as high as €320.
The rise in pricing is indicative of how places like the beach along the Athens Riviera have transformed into luxury-style areas accessible only to those willing to fork out for it.
The spike in pricing is said to be linked to the recent upscale development of the coastal zone, stretching from the southern suburbs of Athens to the resort town of Sounio, which has changed several beachfront areas into exclusive experiences.
It is also evident in areas like Glyfada, Kavouri and Vouliagmeni where sunbeds cost anywhere from €100 to €320 (approximately $175 to $561 in Australian currency).
The problem is less severe but still prevalent in less upscale areas like Alimos, where weekend prices range from €17 to €45 per set, and in Anavyssos (about an hour’s way from Athens), where beachgoers can expect to pay between €33 and €70, To Vima reported.
Visitors unwilling to pay the high costs have opted to forego these areas in favour of free public beaches, and bringing their own towels and umbrellas.
The whole situation has raised debate over the accessibility of Greece’s coastline.
The right to access the sea is protected in Greek law, but the rising costs at organised beaches are creating a divide between those who can afford comfort and those who are being priced out.
Critics argue that these beach pricing trends reflect a growing commercialisation of public space.
The latest prices have surged so high to create a situation even seasoned beachgoers cannot ignore.
