I’m sorry this is my first post

Hi Claire and welcome to the forum!

In this area, the beaches are much safer than England.  For example, the beaches in Torrevieja are marked out in 2m squares to ensure social distancing.  You have to either book a morning, or afternoon, slot to go to the beach, or you can go without booking and just wait until a square becomes available.

New restrictions were announced by the Valencian autonomous government yesterday - it is now mandatory to wear masks in all settings: the only exceptions are at the beach, in a swimming pool or walking in an isolated environment, such as a natural park.  In any event, always carry a mask with you - the police here are strict and won't hesitate to issue a fine if you're not complying.  Not knowing the law - especially as it has changed as recently as yesterday - will not be sufficient excuse.

If you scroll through the new posts from yesterday, you'll find a thread detailing the new regulations.  If I can find it, I'll update this post.

EDIT:  here's the link Claire

https://www.costablancaforum.com/area/catral-spain-35/coronavirus-in-catral-covid-19-723/the-council-decrees-the-mandatory-use-of-masks-at-all-times-from-today-in-the-comunitat-valenciana-108875/

Kind regards,

Kim

Thank you so much ... I’ve been here many times and I know it’s not going to be the same but if we don’t see him now we won’t see him until next year i have plenty of masks to take with us ... thank you for your prompt reply and stay safe , we are leaving at midnight xx 

It's as safe as you are prepared to make it. Someone (possibly RayD) posted a list of infections in the area, town by town showing total infections, new infections within the last 14 days and total deaths. The authorities are jumping on new outbreaks and reacting quickly with some areas closed down, some "asked" to stay at home and masks now compulsory in most situations. Masks are readily available for less than €1 and some shops are still supplying gloves for customers. As Kimmy says, busier beaches are marked out and most people were wearing masks even before the extension (prior to this it was only if social distancing couldn't be maintained) but it was mainly the youngsters using them just as bracelets.
Personally, due to pre existings, I won't be going anywhere near the coast but then I'm lucky that I can go any time of the year so I appreciate it makes a difference but even so, I would rather be here in Spain than in the UK.

Thank you Cheryl to be honest I’m not too bothered about the beach either , I know some smaller coves if dad was desperate to get out , I love it in Spain it’s like my second home it’s just so sad as the culture is just so sociable and family oriented to see it any other way is tragic , the news here is making it sound like it’s awful. I appreciate your help stay safe my lovely xx

Hi Claire,

There have been incidents of disgraceful behaviour in Spain - such as the drunk Brits fighting outside a restaurant in Malaga because a taxi driver refused to transport them, which resulted in some diners being assaulted.  We also have youngsters of all nationalities who seem to think they're immune to Covid-19, although those incidences have been reported in the bigger cities, such as Madrid and Barcelona.  Given the awful reports we've seen of English beaches and street parties in London and other cities, perhaps certain UK right-wing press think it's helpful to try and direct attention elsewhere?

I have to say that whilst I think stricter use of masks is a good thing, I am worried that this new focus will detract from the most important preventative measures we should all be doing - wash hands with soap and water, or sanitizer, and keep hands away from eyes, nose and mouth.

I hope you have a lovely time visiting your father-in-law.

Stay safe,

Kim

Have a good journey , everyone has summed up the situation over here , I live in bigastro and life is good here 

Hi Claire47, As I have lived happily in Guardamar del Segura for 16 years, I know that I am biased, but  I think the beach here is well patrolled by Red Cross, local police & Stewards. The beach does not open to the public until 9am to allow the cleaning workers to do their job without hindrance. I think the beach is cleared at 8pm for security. The staff in the promenade cafes are very considerate. At 1pm I heard an appeal for bathers who had been on the beach all morning to kindly leave carefully to make space for the afternoon arrivals. Everyone appears to be happy with the clean water & beach. The one point I don't quite understand is the absence of foot-washing as you leave the beach - the authorities must think it is a potential point of contact contagion. 

I think that the only real problem is the youth congregating on the street prior to night clubbing. At the age of 80 I am a bit past that.

I hope this helps you to have a pleasant trip. Peter

You probably know my father in law then lol .... we have arrived after a very longer than usual journey as we avoided all the major cities now sitting with a beer at my dads ... very much looking forward to my break .. stay safe xx 

Who is your father in law ?