Costa Mar weighs limits on tourism visas amid infrastructure strain

The Costa Mar Regional Assembly will debate a proposal next week that would impose a seasonal cap on tourism visas, effectively limiting the number of international visitors allowed to enter the peninsula during peak months. The proposal, introduced by three independent assembly members and supported by environmental groups, reflects growing concern that summer infrastructure—water supply, waste management, and beach access—is being strained beyond safe limits.

Governor Solomon Adeyemi has not taken a formal position, but his office released a statement indicating that any visa restrictions would require careful economic modeling. Tourism and related services account for roughly 40 percent of Costa Mar's regional employment, and hospitality operators have signaled strong opposition to any cap. The debate has opened a rare fissure between the conservation constituency and the business sector, both of which have historically supported the region's development.

The proposal comes as June arrivals reached 18,400 visitors—a 12 percent increase over the same month in 2025—and accommodation occupancy in Puerto Azul has exceeded 95 percent on multiple weekends. Water-system operators reported peak demand on June 8 that approached the system's design limit, prompting a brief conservation notice issued by the Federal Hydro Authority.