A beach in Andalucia has sparked backlash after introducing a paid shower system that forces visitors to hand over money before rinsing off sand and saltwater.

The controversial pilot scheme has been installed at Matalascañas, a popular resort in Huelva province.

The new ‘smart shower’ requires users to pay before it can be activated. Making matters worse for some visitors, the machine does not provide change.

The installation forms part of a trial project aimed at gathering data on water consumption and user behaviour.

Supporters say the system will help authorities manage increasingly scarce water resources more efficiently during periods of drought.

The shower is capable of tracking usage levels, monitoring water consumption and collecting information that could be used to improve future management of public facilities.

Its promoters argue the project is designed to test how technology can be used to modernise beach infrastructure while encouraging more responsible water use.

However, many visitors have reacted angrily to the idea of paying to use a service that has traditionally been free.

‘If it’s not parking meters, it’s beach showers. The idea is to make money from everything,’ wrote one local on social media.

Another complained: ‘Next they’ll be charging us to enter the beach.’

The debate has exploded online, with videos and posts about the shower attracting thousands of views and comments.

While some people support the measure as a necessary response to water shortages, others argue that sustainability should not come at the expense of basic public services.

Critics also warn that introducing paid facilities could damage the resort’s image among tourists.

The controversy comes at a time when water conservation remains a major issue across much of southern Spain following years of drought and growing concerns about long-term water supplies.

Read more Andalucia news at the Spanish Eye.