Toursist require constant access to water. Tourism is both dependent on freshwater resources and an important factor in fresh water use. Tourists need and consume water when washing or using the toilet, when participating in activities such as ski or golf tourism, when using spas, wellness areas or swimming pools. Freshwater is also needed to maintain the gardens and landscaping of hotels and attractions, and is embodied in tourism infrastructure development, food and fuel production. Many forms of tourism are also indirectly dependent on water, including for instance, winter tourism, agritourism or wildlife tourism.

Most Mediterranean coastal aquifers suffer from over-exploitation due to the concentration of agriculture and tourism in coastal areas where the mild climate favours both economic activities.