Dozens of holidaymakers were observed sprinting to claim prime sunbeds at a Tenerife hotel, a scene described as part of the ongoing 'sunbed wars.' The rush occurred shortly after security staff opened the pool gates at 8 a.m. on June 16.
Guests began gathering around 7:30 a.m. to secure the most desirable poolside spots, with around 40 people participating in the scramble once the gates were opened. Hope Davies, who filmed the event during a seven-day stay at the Spring Hotel Bitacora in Playa de las Americas, noted that the daily occurrence felt chaotic.
"There were around 40 people rushing for sunbeds. People were panicking trying to secure the sunbeds directly next to the pools, mainly as this is a family hotel so I guess it's to keep an eye on their children without having to be in the water," Davies stated. She added that security guards were present to prevent guests from entering the pool area before the official opening time and to manage the towel placement.
By 9:30 a.m., most loungers were reportedly occupied, with only scattered single beds remaining. Davies expressed frustration, suggesting a need for a more efficient system and questioning the necessity of the morning rush, especially for families with young children or those wishing to sleep later.
Another guest, Joanna Wright, who visited the hotel in May, described a similar situation. She observed security staff positioned around the pool to prevent early access to sunbeds. Wright found the scene surreal, comparing the guards' role to protecting a major event. While some guests appreciated the hotel's attempt to ensure fairness, others found the competitive nature of securing loungers, which were all reportedly taken by 8:05 a.m. on May 22, to be ridiculous.
Davies noted that the security measures had not eliminated the competition but rather delayed the rush until the official opening. She and her party of friends were often unable to find sunbeds together later in the morning and sometimes resorted to visiting the beach or water parks instead. Spring Hotel Bitacora has been contacted for comment.