In recent months, the coastal town of Les Sables-d’Olonne in France has sparked considerable debate by introducing a new regulation aimed at banning “half-naked” individuals from strolling the streets. Nestled along the Vendée coast on the Atlantic side of France, this initiative has emerged as a response to what local officials describe as “indecent behavior” that has persisted over the years, particularly during the bustling summer tourist season. The measure was announced by the town’s mayor, Yannick Moreau, who emphasized that the fine—up to €150 (approximately $175)—is intended to address both public decorum and hygiene concerns in local markets and streets.
The enforcement of this dress code has been framed as a matter of respect towards the local community. Mayor Moreau underlined the importance of maintaining a basic standard of clothing, stating, “It’s time to remind clearly: it’s forbidden to walk around naked or in a swimsuit at Sables d’Olonne. A little outfit, please!” The slogan accompanying this campaign, “In Les Sables d’Olonne, respect doesn’t go on holiday,” reinforces the idea that, while the beach offers ample space for swimwear, the town itself requires a certain level of civility. Local residents have largely supported the initiative, with many expressing their displeasure regarding the lack of decorum they have observed.
Interestingly, Les Sables-d’Olonne is not alone in this endeavor. Other towns in France, such as Arcachon and La Grande-Motte, have implemented similar policies, enforcing fines for wearing beach attire outside of designated areas. In the Mediterranean town of Cassis, authorities also emphasize maintaining the town’s elegance by urging visitors to dress appropriately when transitioning from beach to urban environments. Such measures illustrate a growing concern in various coastal regions regarding tourist behavior, with the intention of preserving local culture and standards.
Internationally, the trend isn’t limited to France. In Spain’s Malaga, authorities have introduced hefty fines for those wandering in just underwear or less, accompanied by campaigns urging proper public behavior. The underlying theme in these cities is a pushback against perceived disorderly conduct among tourists, indicating a broader cultural tension between local residents and visitors. This suggests that the drive for public decorum transcends national borders and resonates with numerous communities in tourist-heavy regions.
Despite the support for the swimwear ban, it has also ignited criticisms regarding the government’s priorities in addressing more significant issues. Many residents have pointed out the contrasting urgency in dealing with shirtless tourists compared to escalating violent crime rates across France, where gang-related violence and drug trafficking have increasingly threatened safety. Critics argue that the focus on clothing laws reflects a disjointed approach to governance, with emphasis diverted from serious public safety concerns to relatively minor infractions.
For Mayor Moreau and his supporters, maintaining a ban on inappropriate beachwear is not merely about dress codes; it reflects a vision for public decency and the town’s identity. In his view, it signifies a definitive line against nudism and a commitment to preserving the community’s character, amid ongoing concerns of rising crime and disorder. This campaign becomes emblematic of a larger narrative around public yet personal spaces, where community values and visitor behaviors intersect in complex ways. As the summer months approach, the ongoing discussions around this legislation highlight the broader negotiations between traditional values and the evolving identity of tourist destinations.
