Morphological changes of coastal tourism: A case study of Denarau Island, Fiji

Abstract

The paper analyzes coastal morphological changes on Denarau Island in Fiji from physical, environmental and social perspectives. It shows that morphological changes on Denarau Island do not follow the traditional Beach Resort Model (BRM) due to the influence of the master plan implemented by territorial local authority (TLA), which played a major role in preventing unexpected expansion. The findings suggest that coastal tourism development in Fiji begins with international hotel expansion. As demand for tourism development in the area rises, rapid urbanization causes adverse environmental effects and in turn, impacts local communities. The study directs a need for legislative reform to require a spatial plan suitable for tourism developments, conservation and resource management in order to avoid decline in coastal resorts and sustain coastal resources.