Beach Recreation Among Urban Dwellers in Lagos, Nigeria: A Multivariate Analysis of Preferences and Decision-making Process

Abstract

This article empirically examines the underlying factors that influence beach preferences, choice decision-making processes, and perception of beach facilities by the local residents in Lagos, Nigeria. A survey of perception of two beaches by respondents in four Local Government Areas (LGAs) provided the primary data for the study. Using the Random Utility Theory (RUT) framework, the study discovered that preference formation and beach choices are considerably influenced by the respondent's perception of spatial and environmental attributes of beach sites as well as the recreationist characteristics. The implication of these findings is that the observed beach behavior of recreationists cannot only be attributed to their personal attributes but essentially to their perception of the conditions of the beaches. Hence, government with other stakeholders in tourism development in Nigeria needs to take a critical interest in the development of the beaches with regards to accessibility, facilities, security, environment, space, transport system, and a host of other important things that can facilitate attraction to coastal beaches in Lagos and in Nigeria at large.