Effects of beach width variability on recreational function: A case study of NE Brazil

Abstract

Beaches have historically been recognized as one of the main spaces for leisure and recreation for residents and tourists worldwide. They are maintained by the combined action of waves, tides, currents, and winds that directly affect their composition, shape, and size. Subject to morphological variations on a short-term scale (hours and days) as a result of the action of storm waves or extraordinary tidal events, the geomorphic and sedimentary characteristics of the beach are important for determining recreational function. Considering that the beach profile changes seasonally owing to the conditions of sea agitation and sand supply, some uses may not adapt to these variations. Thus, there must be a minimum beach width for recreational functions to be developed. The method used to measure beach width is an important parameter to study erosion and accretion on beaches around the world. However, the detection of long-term changes in beach width is challenging because it is necessary to have observational data on the beach morphological change. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between the variability of the width of the emerged beach and its effects on recreational function in a stretch of Tabuba beach, Caucaia, Ceará.