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Abstract

The global spread and evolution of surfing as a recreational and sporting activity has been pervasive and rapid. The spread of surfing has become the catalyst for the development of coastal locations. Butler's model has relevance for surfing destinations where numerous examples exist of a pattern of development that has occurred over time as a location becomes known and attractive for surfing and the subsequent changes that occur. The need to protect surf breaks, wilderness and opportunities for high-quality surfing experiences is becoming recognized as a significant challenge and a number of advocacy groups have been established to lobby for greater protection of high-quality surf breaks. Travel for surfing is a fast-growing aspect of the tourism industry. Recreational succession is correlated with the pattern of development identified in Butler's destination life-cycle model and is derived from the reaction of locals and visitors as tourism grows as postulated by Doxey's Irridex.