Geospatial analysis of barrier island beach availability to tourists

Abstract

This study geospatially analyzes beach availability for global recreational tourism management with focus on a case study of Jekyll Island off the coast of Georgia, USA. Aerial digital imagery in combination with Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) data and geographic information system (GIS) mapping and analysis are employed to delineate accurate shorelines with regard to accessible and available beach area. This analysis demonstrates geospatial techniques for the identification, delineation, qualification and geovisualization of dry beaches, a popular tourist destination worldwide that is subjected to diurnal flooding by tides. The accurate depiction of shorelines using remotely sensed differences in Mean Higher High Water (MHHW) and Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW) levels is required to identify dry beach areas available for coastal tourism and management. Such information allows tourists to choose beach areas suitable for recreational or ecological activities. Dry beach availability also assists coastal restoration managers to plan and implement beach conservation measures. Results predict shoreline changes and dry beach access while promoting minimal impacts by tourists on fragile coastal dune ecosystems.