The Canary Islands, a beloved destination for sun-seeking tourists, are at the heart of a heated debate as the Spanish government ramps up efforts to crack down on illegal holiday rentals.
In recent years, the popularity of platforms like Airbnb has soared — but not without backlash from locals and politicians.
Now, authorities are demanding Airbnb remove thousands of illegal listings across the archipelago in a bold move to protect local housing markets and address overtourism.

The government of the Canary Islands has declared that short-term holiday lets are having a negative impact on long-term housing affordability and local communities.
With nearly 200,000 holiday home beds listed across the seven islands, the islands’ Vice President Manuel Domínguez claims these rentals are “out of control.”

Faced with an escalating housing crisis and protests from residents, the regional government has issued a final warning to platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com to remove illegal properties by the end of May.
After that, regulatory fines and enforcements could follow.

According to official figures, out of 195,000 holiday rental beds across the Canary Islands, more than 65,000 are believed to be operating illegally.
This crackdown represents a significant shift in Spain’s approach to vacation rentals, especially in touristic hotspots like Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria.

If these listings are delisted on major platforms, thousands of Airbnb hosts may be impacted — many of whom rely on income from short-term lets for their livelihoods.

The root of the issue lies in rising property prices and a severe shortage of long-term rental housing.
Locals accuse Airbnb landlords of prioritising profit over the community’s wellbeing.
In early 2024, massive protests took place across the Canary Islands calling for more regulation and conservation of housing for residents.

The government’s stance is clear: more control, stricter enforcement, and a shift back towards sustainable tourism models that benefit everyone.

Airbnb maintains that it will continue to liaise with Spanish authorities to comply with legal requests and maintain the integrity of its platform.
A spokesperson stated that the company supports regulations that allow local families to benefit from tourism within the law.

However, some critics argue that platforms like Airbnb have been slow to remove illegal listings unless forced.
This latest order could set a powerful precedent not just in Spain, but in other European tourist hotspots too.

If you’re planning a holiday in the Canary Islands this year, you may find fewer Airbnb listings available or experience cancellations if illegal listings are removed.
It’s now more important than ever to book legitimate accommodation by double-checking the property’s registration and credentials.

Hosts should ensure compliance with local regulations to avoid penalties — both financial and reputational. For hosts in the UK or elsewhere, this is a strong reminder that operating within legal frameworks is essential to long-term success in the short-let industry.

The Canary Islands’ crackdown offers valuable lessons for UK-based Airbnb hosts.
Regulatory frameworks like the 90-day Airbnb rule in London exist to prevent overtourism and housing shortages.
Staying informed, adopting compliant management practices, and working with experienced Airbnb managers is crucial.

If you’re a host looking to avoid similar pitfalls, working with professionals who understand local laws can protect your rental business.
Consider enlisting Airbnb management services in London or other key cities to ensure your properties adhere to current regulations.

Whether you’re in the UK, Spain, or elsewhere, best practices for Airbnb compliance include:

• Registering your property with local councils or tourism boards
• Ensuring your home meets safety and accessibility standards
• Limiting rental days as per local rules
• Paying appropriate taxes on rental income
• Keeping your guests informed about house rules and neighborhood guidelines

You can also read our guide on how to manage Airbnb properties for insights into running a successful and compliant holiday let.

The tourism sector is undergoing a shift — with increasing calls for accountability, sustainability, and community-focused travel experiences.
What’s happening in the Canary Islands is part of a broader movement towards fair and ethical tourism regulation.

As more cities rethink their approaches to short-term lets, hosts and platforms must adapt.
Holiday rental owners who focus on transparency, customer experience and responsible hosting will be better positioned for long-term success.

The Airbnb crackdown in the Canary Islands is a wake-up call for both local and international hosts.
It underscores the importance of legality, sustainability, and community harmony in today’s rental landscape.

Whether you’re managing a property in Tenerife or looking to improve your Airbnb in Bath, staying informed and proactive is the best way to thrive in an increasingly regulated world.