Tourism, Coastal Access, and Resident Welfare: Valuing Beach Access in Da Nang, Vietnam

This study establishes the intrinsic and extrinsic value local residents derive from additional public beach access in Da Nang, Vietnam. The study’s hypothesis states local residents of Da Nang, Vietnam derive value from additional public beach access and are willing to pay a fee (WTP) for such access. Data were collected through a survey and analyzed using quantitative tools including Contingent Valuation Method (CVM). The study’s results indicated mean WTP by local residents for additional public beach access points and related facilities was Vietnamese Dong (VND) 54,403.78 per visit. Findings demonstrate local residents value public beach access and are willing to pay for such access. Findings carry important implications for public and private sector organizations with a stake in infrastructure development, not only at the study site of Da Nang, Vietnam, but potentially in other locales facing similar issues.