Date Published: 09/07/2024

Bathing topless, smoking, drinking... Know your Spanish swimming pool etiquette

It’s easy to make a splash for all the wrong reasons at public swimming pools in Spain

As the Spanish sun shines bright, it's time to dive into one of summer's greatest attractions – a dip in the communal swimming pool. Whether you're a city dweller seeking refuge from the heat or a parent watching your little ones splash under the watchful eye of lifeguards, Spain's public pools offer something for everyone. But before you take the plunge, it's essential to know the do's and don'ts of pool etiquette.

Topless sunbathing

One of the most intriguing questions of the season arises: is going topless allowed? The answer lies in a maze of regulations. While there's no explicit state law prohibiting it, neither the Constitution nor the Penal Code specifically addresses this. Instead, it's up to municipal ordinances and town councils to set the rules.

In places like Catalonia, going topless is embraced after the issue caused quite a stir last year, with regulations now prohibiting censorship and promoting equal treatment for men and women.

Other cities like Bilbao, Valencia and Sevilla have also jumped on the all-over-tan bandwagon, allowing or regulating this practice.

So, before you bare it all, check your local regulations to avoid any awkward moments. After all, you don't want to be the one causing a splash for the wrong reasons.

Toys, tunes and treats

Now, let's dive into some poolside fun. Inflatable mattresses, surfboards and pool toys are a go, as long as they help you stay afloat and the lifeguard gives the thumbs up. However, many communal pools in urbanisations expressly prohibit inflatables like lilos and beach balls, so keep an eye out for the signs.

As for food, while outside snacks are generally a no-go in public facilities, pools often have snack bars where you can grab a bite. Just remember, no munching in the grass or bathing areas – save those treats for the designated spots.

When it comes to smoking and drinking, Spain's pools offer a laid-back vibe. You can light up and sip on your favourite beverage in designated areas, whether it's at the snack bar or by the poolside.

Everyone likes a little piped music or some lively disco tunes when chilling by the pool, but Spain is pretty strict about any behaviour that might be bothersome to others, and that involves poolside tunes.

But like most things, the rules aren’t exactly cut and dried. In Sevilla, for example, bathers are banned from playing songs at full volume, but they can have music of a "considerate" volume. Clear as mud.

In general though, if the local council or custodians haven't specified, then Spain's law against noise pollution applies, which determines the maximum number of decibels that can be used to avoid disturbing the tranquillity and coexistence of the people who are sharing the premises.

So, as you pack your sunscreen and towels, remember to brush up on the pool rules to ensure a smooth and splashy summer.

You might also like: 10 most common (and dangerous!) jellyfish found in the waters in Spain

Image: Unsplash

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