New Tourism Crisis in Sardinia Beach, Mass Tourism Becomes a Great Threat Like Spain, Indonesia, Thailand, Greece, How This Can Be Lower Down | TTW Report - Travel And Tour World (2025)

Monday, April 7, 2025

The idyllic beauty of Sardinia’s Tuerredda Beach, with its turquoise waters and golden sands, has long made it a favorite destination for travelers around the world. But this stunning location is now at the heart of a growing crisis in the travel and tourism industry—one that threatens to irreparably damage the natural environment and disrupt the lives of local residents. With overtourism running rampant, local authorities in Teulada, the town closest to Tuerredda, are taking radical measures to stem the tide of visitors. This summer, visitors to the beach will be required to book a spot via an app, marking one of the most significant attempts to control tourism in Italy’s popular hotspots.

The mayor of Teulada, Angelo Milia, has announced that the new system will be implemented by July, as the local government looks to manage the ever-increasing number of beachgoers during peak tourist season. Though the beach has already been restricting visitor numbers to 1,100 people per day, Milia hopes the app-based booking system will further alleviate the pressures on the beach and its surrounding infrastructure. But this move is just one part of Italy’s broader efforts to combat overtourism, which has become a thorn in the side of travel destinations all over the country.

Italy’s Struggle with Over Tourism

Italy, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class food, has long been one of the most visited countries in Europe. The country receives around 50 million tourists annually, a staggering number that puts significant pressure on its historical sites, natural beauty spots, and local communities. Cities like Venice, Florence, and Rome have all felt the brunt of overtourism, and many of Italy’s most famous coastal areas, like the Amalfi Coast, have seen visitor numbers soar in recent years.

The problems of overcrowding, environmental degradation, and the displacement of local residents have become all too familiar. From Venice’s sinking streets to the overcrowded ruins of Pompeii, Italy’s tourism industry has reached a breaking point. Yet, while the national government has been slow to act, it is local councils like Teulada that have begun to take aggressive action to protect their communities and the environment.

Tuerredda Beach: A Test Case for Italy’s Overtourism Crisis

Tuerredda Beach, located less than 200 yards off Sardinia’s southern coast, is one of the island’s most beloved natural spots. The beach is famous for its clear, turquoise waters and its crescent-shaped bay, which makes it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Sardinia. But the surge in tourism has had a significant impact on the area. The beach, once an unspoiled paradise, has become a victim of its own popularity.

The introduction of a booking system for visitors is a direct response to the ever-growing number of tourists flocking to the area, especially in the summer months. In addition to the 1,100-visitor limit, the Teulada council has implemented strict bans on the use of disposable plastic bags, smoking, and the removal of sand or pebbles from the beach. These measures reflect the increasing urgency to protect the environment and preserve the natural beauty of Sardinia’s coastlines. The introduction of the app-based booking system is seen as a crucial step toward controlling the number of visitors and maintaining the beach’s sustainability.

Beaches in Sardinia and the Arrival of Tourists: A Growing Trend

Sardinia, Italy’s second-largest island, is renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and Mediterranean climate. It boasts over 1,100 miles of coastline, dotted with pristine beaches and secluded coves that attract millions of tourists each year. From the famous Costa Smeralda, known for its luxury resorts, to the more tranquil and untouched shores of the island’s south and west, Sardinia offers a beach for every type of traveler. However, the increasing number of visitors to these idyllic locations has sparked concerns about the sustainability of tourism and its impact on the environment and local communities.

The Most Famous Beaches in Sardinia

Some of Sardinia’s beaches are legendary for their natural beauty. La Pelosa Beach, located near Stintino in the northwest, is often listed among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Its powdery white sand and shallow turquoise waters make it a magnet for sunbathers and swimmers. Another popular destination is Cala Brandinchi, often referred to as “Little Tahiti” due to its striking resemblance to the tropical islands of the Pacific. Situated near San Teodoro in the northeast, Cala Brandinchi offers visitors crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and a laid-back atmosphere.

The Costa Smeralda in the north, known for its glamorous resorts and exclusive clientele, attracts high-end tourists seeking luxury and privacy. Beaches like Capriccioli and Liscia Ruja are famed for their beauty, surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation and rocky outcrops, creating a picturesque backdrop. In contrast, the Chia region in the south offers pristine, less-developed beaches like Su Giudeu and Cala Cipolla, where visitors can enjoy solitude and unspoiled landscapes.

Beyond these famous spots, Sardinia’s more remote beaches such as Cala Luna, Cala Goloritzé, and Cala Mariolu in the east require a bit of effort to reach but reward visitors with their serene beauty and crystal-clear waters. These hidden gems are especially appealing to those seeking to avoid the crowded, tourist-heavy areas.

The Rising Influx of Tourists: Who is Visiting Sardinia?

Over the years, Sardinia’s beaches have become increasingly popular among international tourists, particularly from neighboring European countries. The island’s accessibility via both air and sea has made it a favorite summer destination, especially for travelers from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy itself.

Germany is one of the largest sources of visitors to Sardinia. German tourists are drawn to the island’s beautiful beaches, its tranquil atmosphere, and the relatively short flight distance from Germany’s major cities like Munich, Berlin, and Hamburg. The German market is especially significant for Sardinia’s tourism sector, with a preference for luxury resorts, nature tourism, and hiking trails in addition to the beach.

France is another key market for Sardinia, especially due to the island’s proximity to the French island of Corsica. French tourists are drawn to Sardinia’s natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences. Sardinia’s allure to French visitors is amplified by direct ferry services from Nice and Toulon to ports like Olbia and Porto Torres.

The United Kingdom has historically been a significant source of tourists for Sardinia, though the recent changes in travel dynamics due to Brexit have made some shifts in this trend. British tourists tend to favor Sardinia’s more developed beach resorts, particularly those in Costa Smeralda and other parts of the north. British holidaymakers are attracted by the island’s vibrant nightlife, fine dining, and luxury accommodations, alongside its world-renowned beaches.

Italy, as Sardinia’s home country, accounts for a large portion of beachgoers. Many Italians consider Sardinia their favorite domestic vacation destination, particularly during the summer months. Sardinian beaches are particularly popular among mainland Italians from regions like Lazio, Tuscany, and Piedmont. Many also opt for Sardinia as a weekend getaway from larger Italian cities like Rome and Milan.

Scandinavia has also seen a growing number of tourists visiting Sardinia. Travelers from Sweden, Norway, and Denmark are attracted to the island’s sunny weather and natural landscapes, particularly those seeking sun in the summer months when their home countries experience cooler temperatures. Sardinia’s less crowded beaches provide the perfect escape for those from northern Europe looking to unwind.

In recent years, Russia and other Eastern European countries have also seen a rise in tourists visiting Sardinia. While not as large as the Western European markets, these travelers are increasingly seeking out Sardinia’s beaches for their luxurious yet more affordable alternatives to other Mediterranean destinations like the French Riviera or the Amalfi Coast.

The Challenges of Over Tourism

With the increasing influx of international visitors, Sardinia’s beautiful beaches are becoming more crowded, especially during the peak summer months. This surge in tourism, while beneficial for the local economy, has raised concerns about the environmental impact and the strain on local infrastructure. The local government in Sardinia has started to take steps to manage the flow of tourists more effectively, including implementing visitor caps, introducing booking systems for popular beaches like Tuerredda, and regulating the use of resources such as water and energy in tourism-heavy areas.

Environmental preservation is also a key issue, as the pristine natural beauty of Sardinia’s beaches is under threat from overuse. From erosion and littering to the destruction of coastal ecosystems, the effects of mass tourism are starting to show. As a result, efforts are being made to educate tourists about responsible behavior, such as banning plastic bags and promoting eco-friendly accommodations and practices.

Sardinia’s beaches have long been a draw for tourists from all over the world. The island’s natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich culture make it a standout destination in the Mediterranean. However, with the increasing number of visitors each year, mass tourism is becoming a major concern. The challenge now lies in how to preserve the island’s natural heritage while still accommodating the growing number of travelers. By adopting sustainable tourism practices, Sardinia can continue to welcome international visitors while protecting its iconic beaches for future generations.

Sardinia’s Move Sparks Broader Discussions on Overtourism

Sardinia’s decision to implement these measures is part of a larger conversation about the future of tourism in Italy. The country’s most iconic tourist destinations, including the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and Positano, have all been grappling with the challenges of overtourism. Overcrowding, rising rental prices, and the loss of authentic local culture are just some of the negative effects that mass tourism has had on these regions.

In response, mayors from 25 Italian tourist towns, including Capri, Positano, and Taormina, gathered for a crisis summit in Amalfi to discuss how to tackle overtourism. One of the key issues raised was the need for greater flexibility in managing tourist arrivals, especially during peak seasons. Paolo Falco, the mayor of Capri, proposed limiting the number of ferries to the island on an hourly basis, a measure aimed at reducing the flood of day-trippers who overwhelm the island every summer.

The summit also highlighted the need for better coordination between local governments and transport authorities. Many mayors have called for greater control over public transport, such as trains and ferries, to ensure that visitor numbers are better managed. Additionally, there were discussions about imposing local taxes or requiring businesses to hire temporary staff to handle the surge in tourists.

The National Government’s Slow Response

Despite the efforts of local councils, Italy’s national government has been slow to take significant action on overtourism. The Vatican’s Jubilee Year celebrations, which have drawn millions of visitors to Rome, have been seen as an example of the government’s reluctance to impose restrictions that could affect the tourism industry’s profitability. While national policies to regulate tourism are needed, local authorities like those in Teulada and Capri have been left to take matters into their own hands.

The tourism industry in Italy is a massive economic driver, and many argue that any measures to control visitor numbers could have a negative impact on the country’s economy. However, the growing concerns over environmental damage, cultural degradation, and the displacement of local residents are forcing Italy to rethink its approach to tourism.

Overtourism: A Global Issue for the Travel Industry

Italy is not alone in facing the challenges of overtourism. Around the world, destinations like Barcelona, Bali, and Venice have all struggled with the consequences of too many visitors. The cruise industry, in particular, has been under fire for contributing to overtourism, with large cruise ships often overcrowding ports and creating massive amounts of waste. In response, several cities have already begun to impose regulations on the cruise industry, including limiting the number of ships that can dock at once and charging higher fees for cruise passengers.

As overtourism becomes an increasingly global issue, the travel industry must adapt. The introduction of booking systems for beaches like Tuerredda could be the first step toward more sustainable travel practices. Similarly, stricter regulations on short-term rentals, cruise ships, and mass tourism packages may become necessary in order to protect the world’s most beloved destinations.

A Hopeful Future for Sustainable Travel

Despite the challenges posed by overtourism, there is hope. As more destinations take steps to limit visitor numbers and promote sustainable tourism practices, travelers are becoming more aware of the impact they have on the places they visit. Sustainable travel is becoming more popular, with tourists increasingly choosing eco-friendly options, such as smaller group tours, responsible wildlife watching, and low-impact accommodation.

How Mass Tourism Can Be Erased: A Path Toward Sustainable Travel

Mass tourism, once a golden standard in the travel industry, is increasingly being recognized as a major threat to local cultures, ecosystems, and economies. Overcrowded destinations, environmental degradation, and the loss of authentic local experiences have sparked growing concern among environmentalists, residents, and governments. While it may seem impossible to entirely erase mass tourism, the reality is that through targeted actions, responsible travel, and sustainable practices, the tide of mass tourism can be significantly reduced, and its harmful effects mitigated.

1. Shifting the Focus to Sustainable Travel Practices

The most effective way to reduce mass tourism is to encourage and promote sustainable travel practices. Sustainable tourism focuses on minimizing the negative impacts of travel on local communities, economies, and the environment while maximizing the positive benefits. This can be achieved through thoughtful planning, community engagement, and eco-friendly tourism activities.

To shift the focus of tourism, the industry must prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term profits. This means encouraging travelers to stay longer in fewer places, promoting off-season travel, and supporting destinations that are less well-known but equally beautiful. By diversifying the tourism sector and directing visitors toward less congested areas, it is possible to alleviate pressure on iconic, overcrowded spots.

2. Incentivizing Local and Regional Tourism

Instead of continuously pushing for global travel to popular tourist hubs, promoting regional and local tourism is a viable strategy to reduce the strain on heavily visited destinations. Governments, tourism boards, and travel agencies can develop campaigns that encourage people to explore their own countries or nearby regions.

Local tourism not only supports smaller businesses but also distributes economic benefits more evenly across a region, rather than concentrating wealth in a few hotspots. Regional tourism can help alleviate the pressures of mass tourism, especially when combined with incentives such as tax breaks, discounts on local transport, or reduced entry fees for attractions outside major cities.

Furthermore, promoting local cultural heritage, cuisine, and lesser-known attractions can give travelers a richer, more authentic experience. This helps preserve local identity and culture while discouraging the over-commercialization that mass tourism often brings.

3. Implementing Visitor Caps and Controlled Access

One of the most direct ways to curb mass tourism is to introduce visitor caps or limits on the number of tourists allowed in specific locations. Many famous sites, like Machu Picchu, the Galápagos Islands, and Venice, have already adopted such measures. In some cases, this has involved setting a daily limit on the number of visitors, while others have implemented timed entry slots, requiring tourists to book in advance.

Implementing visitor caps and requiring bookings to access certain destinations is an effective way to maintain the balance between attracting visitors and protecting the site from overtourism. Such measures can be enforced through booking systems, reservation apps, or digital ticketing systems, ensuring that visitor numbers are monitored and managed.

4. Embracing Technology for Responsible Travel

Technology can play a pivotal role in the fight against mass tourism. The rise of travel apps, digital ticketing, and virtual tours presents opportunities to manage and redirect tourist traffic effectively. Digital platforms can provide tourists with real-time data on overcrowding at certain attractions, suggest alternative routes, or recommend quieter, lesser-known locations to visit.

Additionally, virtual reality (VR) can be used as an alternative to physical travel to popular destinations. VR technology has made significant strides, allowing users to experience remote locations, historical sites, or even art exhibitions from the comfort of their homes. This not only reduces the environmental footprint of tourism but also gives people access to experiences that may have otherwise been inaccessible due to cost or physical barriers.

5. Promoting Ethical Travel and Local Experiences

As travelers increasingly seek meaningful experiences over superficial sightseeing, ethical travel is emerging as a key trend in the tourism industry. Ethical tourism prioritizes responsible, authentic travel experiences that benefit local communities and cultures.

This type of tourism can be encouraged by focusing on activities such as eco-tours, cultural exchange programs, community-led initiatives, and volunteering vacations. These activities promote a deeper connection with local cultures and environments, encouraging travelers to support local businesses and minimize the impact of their visits.

In parallel, promoting local food experiences, artisan crafts, and homestays can reduce the dominance of large corporate entities and ensure that tourism dollars stay within the community. The more travelers focus on authentic, locally-driven experiences, the less likely they are to flock to overrun tourist spots or participate in activities that harm the environment.

6. Educating Tourists and Raising Awareness

A significant part of the solution to mass tourism lies in education. By raising awareness among tourists about the negative effects of overtourism, we can foster a more responsible travel culture. Educational campaigns can highlight the importance of respecting local customs, protecting the environment, and considering the social impact of travel.

Travel agencies, tour operators, and destinations should provide tourists with clear information about sustainable practices, responsible behavior, and alternative destinations. When travelers understand the consequences of their actions, they may be more inclined to opt for sustainable choices such as slower travel, avoiding peak seasons, and supporting eco-friendly businesses.

7. Strengthening Regulations and Incentivizing Sustainable Practices

Governments must play a critical role in combating mass tourism. The implementation of stricter regulations, such as stricter building codes for resorts, the banning of large-scale cruise ships in fragile ecosystems, and the imposition of sustainability certification systems for hotels and tour operators, are important steps in reducing the impact of overtourism.

Governments can also incentivize businesses that prioritize sustainability. For instance, they can offer tax breaks to tourism companies that meet environmental standards or support projects that aim to restore or protect damaged ecosystems. Such initiatives would not only improve the sustainability of tourism but also make it more attractive for travelers who value eco-friendly choices.

8. Supporting Alternative Modes of Transportation

The transportation sector is a major contributor to overtourism, particularly in the form of massive cruise ships, large buses, and long-haul flights. To address this issue, the travel industry should promote alternative, more sustainable modes of transportation. This includes supporting train travel, which produces far less CO2 than airplanes, or encouraging travelers to use bicycles and other low-impact transportation methods when visiting destinations.

In addition, better coordination between transportation services and tourism infrastructure can help ease the congestion caused by mass tourism. Public transportation networks should be improved and expanded to allow tourists to move efficiently between destinations without the need for private cars or large buses.

A Future Without Mass Tourism?

While erasing mass tourism entirely may not be practical, it is clear that significant changes are needed to reduce its negative impacts. Through a combination of responsible travel practices, local regulations, technology, and education, the tourism industry can adapt to a more sustainable and respectful model. Rather than focusing on quantity, the future of tourism should prioritize quality, enriching experiences, and the preservation of the world’s most treasured destinations. If implemented effectively, these steps could herald a new era of travel—one where destinations are protected, local communities thrive, and the environment is preserved for future generations.

Sardinia, Italy’s picturesque island known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming towns, is now facing an alarming crisis as mass tourism continues to overwhelm its delicate infrastructure. Tuerredda Beach, one of the island’s most famous spots, has recently become a focal point for local authorities’ efforts to combat the adverse effects of overtourism. With increasing numbers of visitors flooding the region, the local government has been forced to implement measures such as a booking system for beach access, aiming to reduce the environmental and social impact caused by overcrowding.

Sardinia’s tourism crisis mirrors the struggles faced by other iconic global destinations such as Spain’s Costa Brava, Indonesia’s Bali, Thailand’s Phuket, and Greece’s Santorini. In each of these locations, the rapid rise in tourist numbers has led to the degradation of local environments, the erosion of cultural heritage, and a significant decline in the quality of life for local residents. Just like these other hotspots, Sardinia’s idyllic landscapes and cultural richness are increasingly threatened by the strain of mass tourism.

In a region that once thrived on its natural beauty, the pressure of over-tourism has now become an existential threat to both the local economy and the environment. The consequences of uncontrolled tourist numbers are undeniable, ranging from overcrowded beaches to the destruction of fragile ecosystems. The situation in Sardinia is no different from the one playing out in other popular destinations where communities and authorities are scrambling to find solutions before their most beloved locations are irreparably damaged.

This report explores how mass tourism is wreaking havoc on Sardinia, similar to other parts of the world, and discusses potential solutions that could alleviate the burden while ensuring a sustainable and responsible tourism model for the future.

In conclusion, Sardinia’s introduction of a booking system for Tuerredda Beach represents a significant step forward in the fight against overtourism. While this move may not solve all of the challenges facing the travel industry, it sets a powerful example of how local communities can take control of their tourism industries and protect the natural environment. With more destinations taking similar action, the hope is that we can move toward a more sustainable and responsible future for travel.

Read Travel Industry News in 104 different regional platforms

Get our daily dose of news, by subscribing to our newsletters. Subscribe here.

Watch Travel And Tour World Interviews here.

Read more Travel News, Daily Travel Alert, and Travel Industry News on Travel And Tour World only.