Beach quality index for beach tourism management in small islands

\nSmall island economies rely heavily on beach tourism as a critical economic driver. However, managing beach resources in these contexts poses significant challenges due to limited land, fragile ecosystems, and the need to balance the interests of local communities and visitors. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the water quality of beaches using distinct metrics, including pH and dissolved oxygen levels in the water surface, as well as the amounts of sediment coliform and solid waste. Additionally, the study aimed to develop a Beach Quality Index as a decision support tool for sustainable beach management in small island environments. The results showed that the water quality of the beaches varied across the study sites, with some locations exceeding national standards and thus deemed suitable for beach tourism. The study proposes the Beach Quality Index as a standardized framework to assess beach suitability for recreational use, guide management decisions, and promote sustainable beach tourism in small islands.\n