Residents and tourists on the island of Lefkada are expressing outrage this week after being asked to pay 10 euros to access a public beach.

According to Greek media, dozens of complaints have been filed concerning access to Agiofyli beach, where a fence has reportedly been erected across the only entrance. Witnesses say two individuals are stationed at the gate demanding cash for admission and parking.

The news comes after a surge in complaints logged on the government’s MyCoast App, which allows citizens to report illegal activities on public beaches.

Residents say the fence makes it impossible to park anywhere else, effectively forcing beachgoers to pay or leave. Some of the gatekeepers are even advising people to “file a complaint with the municipality” if they disagree.

So far, Lefkada’s municipal authority has not issued an official statement.

The incident highlights a broader problem across Greece: private individuals fencing off coastal roads or land adjacent to public beaches and charging visitors for access and parking. Many beaches, particularly isolated ones, have been subject to such practices, sparking repeated clashes between residents, visitors, and local authorities.

Last year, the government vowed to crack down on the illegal commercialization of public beaches following widespread public outcry. Despite these pledges, the problem persists.